SOUTH BEND, Ind. _ A Notre Dame safety hadn't collected an interception since 2016.
Junior Jalen Elliott ended that drought Saturday against Ball State, picking off two passes. Both interceptions led to touchdowns as the No. 8 Irish beat the Cardinals, 24-16, at Notre Dame Stadium.
Running back Tony Jones Jr. had two rushing touchdowns for Notre Dame (2-0). Jafar Armstrong also had a rushing TD.
But the Irish offense was inconsistent. Quarterback Brandon Wimbush had 297 passing yards but also threw three interceptions. Drops were an issue. And the Irish were sacked four times.
Notre Dame overcame the struggles and won thanks to its defense. Linebacker Te'von Coney had 14 tackles, including three tackles for loss and one sack.
Elliott's interception was the first for a Notre Dame safety since Drue Tranquill against Virginia Tech on Nov. 19, 2016.
Riley Neal completed 23 of 50 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown and the two interceptions for the Cardinals (1-1).
