Depleted Notre Dame defense hopes to make an impact against Georgia in CFP quarterfinals

— Notre Dame’s defense set a dominating tone early in its College Football Playoff opener against Indiana. It’s time for somebody else to have an opportunity, and I know they’ll be ready.” After a shocking 16-14 loss to Northern Illinois in the second game of the season, Notre Dame’s defense led the charge for an 11-game winning streak that lifted the Fighting Irish when the offense struggled to find its footing. Notre Dame’s defense punished opponents this season despite losing four starters to season-ending injuries — linemen Mills, Jordan Botelho and Boubacar Traore, and cornerback Benjamin Morrison. We are expecting the next guy up to have the same or better production than the guy that’s starting right now.” Notre Dame’s defense faces the challenge of replacing Mills and getting ready for a Georgia offense led by Gunner Stockton, who replaces injured starter Carson Beck. I don’t see it being tremendously different than what they’ve done all season, but we’ll prepare for anything.” Georgia head coach Kirby Smart doesn’t anticipate a diminished Notre Dame defense despite the personnel issues.