If u were playing against us, how would u slow down our offense?

I’d build my game plan around taking away ND's run game first, then force Carr to beat my disguised coverages on 3rd down.

I'd run a 4-2-5 base, with the ability to shift into a heavier front when ND uses extra TEs. DL has to control the interior gaps and stop the OL from getting to the 2nd level. LB's have to read the guards and flow downhill without overcommitting (like the old Wing T). Nickel helps against the run while staying responsible for the slot or TE. Safeties have to keep the top on the defense and don't let play-action create uncontested deep shots.

I'd try and stop the run with seven (unless I had to go 8 - then I have a problem) and keep the ability to defend the pass. Against the run, attack the blocking scheme - against inside zone, keep the defensive tackles in their gaps and make the runner bounce outside - against counter and pulling guards, maintain backside contain and don't let linebackers chase - against outside runs, set a firm edge and force the ball back inside - against short-yardage situations, bring in a heavier front. Hopefully, I could create a lot of 2nd and 8.

Against Passing/Carr - disguise coverages. I'd build the passing defense around three coverages:

Cover 4 - Early downs. Protect against vertical routes while supporting the run; Cover 3 - Standard downs. Keep the ball in front and rally to short completions; Cover 1 - Third-and-medium. Tight man coverage.

I'd show two-high safeties before the snap, then rotate late into different looks. I wouldn't play Cover 1 all game. If the corners lose their matchups, Carr is a problem.

Pressure - rush four, but make the protection think. I'd fake pressure rather than constant blitzing. Show six potential rushers. Drop one linebacker into the passing lane. Bring four defenders from changing angles. Occasionally send the nickel off the edge when the formation and protection indicates. The objective is to create confusion without leaving the secondary exposed.

The most important situations - Third-and-7 or longer. Play disguised coverage, rush four, and make Carr hold the ball. This is where I'd be most aggressive with simulated pressures.

Red zone- Tighten the coverage, play more physical at the line, and prioritize stopping the run. Make ND settle for field goals.

My biggest concern - The danger is becoming so focused on stopping ND's run game that you give Carr easy throws off play-action. The opposite mistake is playing too light in the box and allowing the offense to run the ball efficiently.

I'd rather make ND throw into disguised coverage on second-and-long than blitz recklessly on first down.

On defense, I'd say an opposing team has to get to CJ, whether it's sacks, or hurries. Also, hit him over and over.