Notre Dame gears up for in-state rivalry matchup at Purdue

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - Third-ranked Notre Dame travels to Purdue Saturday for an in-state rivalry matchup, marking the team’s first true road test of the season. The Irish enter the game 3-0.

True freshman safety Joey O’Brien, a former five-star recruit, will make his first career start at Ross-Ade Stadium in place of Luke Talich, who was injured during last week’s win over Michigan State.

Standing six-foot-four with elite range, O’Brien has all the physical tools in the world. Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman said O’Brien’s preparation, not just his athletic ability, has given the coaching staff confidence in the freshman.

“There’s a lot of confidence that he’s building us beyond his athletic ability,” Freeman said. “He’s one of those freaky athletes, right? 6′4”, and maybe 6′5″, and can run, and can cover, and can hit. But now he’s building trust that he can get his job done, right? And consistently. And so that comes from preparation, right? That comes from additional meetings, additional instruction, meeting with coaches, and then going out and practicing. And doing it."

Sophomore Matt Jeffery is quickly proving he is a dynamic two-sport weapon for Notre Dame. Last week against Michigan State, he recorded a blocked punt and has made plays on offense when called upon.

Playing football for Notre Dame was a childhood dream for the Irish lacrosse midfielder. He said his story is not finished.

“Yeah, I mean, it’s been everything that I thought of coming into it, it’s still a dream of mine,” Jeffery said. “And I don’t think the story’s done yet. I feel like I’ve still got a lot more to prove. And just being able to see that, this is a working in progress thing and you’ve got to keep your head down and working. You know, I’m just happy that I’m here and grateful for the opportunities that Notre Dame has given me.”

Saturday’s game will be available only on Peacock. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.

Once registered and subscribed, viewers will have access to the live broadcast at kickoff.

With the Irish a quarter of the way through their 12-game regular season, what do you predict Notre Dame’s final record will be? Let us know by voting in this week’s Irish Fan Poll!

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