Nov. 10--It wasn't all bad for Notre Dame against Arizona State, but it was bad enough.
Notre Dame's playoff hopes went away in excruciating fashion against the No. 9 Sun Devils. The No. 10 Irish fell behind big before making a game of it in a 55-31 loss. Turnovers were to blame and without them, Notre Dame is still in the playoff chase.
Offense: D
The only thing saving this grade from an F was the valiant second-half comeback to cut the Arizona State lead to three. Everett Golson committed five turnovers, which created a hole too deep for Notre Dame to dig out of despite 446 yards passing.
Defense: C
The Irish played well enough to win, but not well enough to hold Arizona State back in crucial situations as Notre Dame's offense sputtered. Arizona State found success running the ball (188 yards), something few teams have done against the Irish this season. The Sun Devils were able to put together a touchdown drive in the fourth quarter to thwart the Irish's comeback.
Special teams: F
Kicker Kyle Brindza made a 46-yard field goal in the first quarter, but when Notre Dame was on the comeback trail in the fourth quarter, a botched snap cost the Irish three important points.
Coaching: D
Coach Brian Kelly said the Irish had prepared for exactly what Arizona State was going to bring on Saturday, but the Irish looked flummoxed in the face of the Sun Devils' pressure. After a strong opening drive, the Irish looked helpless the rest of the first half, leading to their demise.
