College football analyst Joel Klatt outlined a potential problem for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish ahead of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes.
While discussing the massive matchup on his popular “The Joel Klatt Show: A College Football Podcast,” Klatt detailed how Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard has struggled this year against pressure.
What Did Joel Klatt Say About Riley Leonard?
Klatt explained how Leonard has not done well statistically or from the eye test when dealing with pressure this year, something the talented Buckeyes defensive unit does plenty. He outlined how the Buckeyes have 16 total sacks in their three College Football Playoff games this campaign, averaging approximately 5.3 per game.
Klatt explained how Leonard’s ability to handle pressure would be key in this game, something that he has not done a good job of to this point in the season.
“The way that that pass rush is operating right now, they get home. And so, Leonard is going to be under pressure, and to be candid, he’s not great against pressure. When you look at not only his film but his numbers, when he starts to get that pressure, his numbers take a real dive,” Klatt stated.
Can Riley Leonard Handle the Ohio State Defensive Unit?
Though he has struggled at times this year, Leonard has done a solid job as Notre Dame’s quarterback. He has thrown for 2,606 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions but also has 866 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns as well.
However, this next game may prove to be his biggest test yet. The Buckeyes’ defense is averaging only 12.2 points per game allowed this season, something that ranks them No. 1 in the nation. Furthermore, they have numerous top talents that can be difference makers and game changers no matter the situation.
MORE: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Prediction
Linebacker Cody Simon has been dominant this year with 104 total tackles and seven sacks. Next, safety Caleb Downs was named to the 2024 CFN All-Big Ten Second Team. Finally, defensive end JT Tuimoloau has 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. Beyond these three, the Buckeyes defensive unit has star power everywhere and will undoubtedly be difficult on Leonard and the Fighting Irish.
The CFP National Championship game between Notre Dame and Ohio State takes place on Jan. 20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta at 7:30 p.m. ET, home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons.
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