In all three losses the defense couldn't hold a lead late in the game. Yes, they should win games based on the point totals allowed and the offense is horrible. However, the defense has not stepped up and taken over a game at key points. In the fourth quarter against Ohio St., they had an opportunity to at least give the offense a punchers chance when they were trailing 14-10. Instead, Ohio St. ran the ball down their throat and dominated the line of scrimmage driving 85 yards for a score and eating up most of the clock. When they took a 15-12 lead against Marshall, the defense could have taken the game in their hands. Instead, immediately following Notre Dame taking the lead, Marshall drove 85 yards down the field against what looked like very confused and uninspired defense. Against Stanford, we took a 14-13 in the fourth quarter and the defense couldn't hold a lead. Is ithat unrealistic to expect an experienced talented defense to hold a lead in the fourth quarter against an inferior opponent? Stanford managed to keep us from scoring after they took a 16-14 lead.
The defense may not look as visibly horrible as the offense. However, they have some serious problems, as well. Why is no one calling out Al Golden??