It appears that the Notre Dame Fighting Irish offense has been unstoppable in short-yardage situations in practice against the Fighting Irish defense.
At least, that's what Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock told The Athletic's Pete Sampson.
Depending on how you view the world, that means either the offense is primed to do well in short-yardage situations and that's a good thing, or it means that the defense, which is projected to be among the best in the nation, has a hole in its game.
Given that Denbrock said the defense tried everything, this author leans towards the former -- perhaps the offense has the talent and the scheme to counter whatever a defense may try. That said, Notre Dame fans should hope that short-yardage isn't a weakness
for the defense.
We'll begin to see the answer starting this weekend with the season opener against Wisconsin.
Notable to me from offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock when asked about being better in short yardage in camp:
— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) September 2, 2026
"Our defense has done everything you can possibly imagine to try to take it away from us, and they haven't been able to do it yet."
That feels significant.
Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page onFacebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes and opinions.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!
Follow Tim on X: @tehealey
This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Notre Dame OC Mike Denbrock says offense ready for short yardage
