Expressing surprise at the extensive list of players sidelined for the upcoming game, Sánchez Córdova notes nearly two dozen starters between Notre Dame and Oregon State will be absent, with the majority being on offense (eight for ND, seven for Oregon State). Expecting a low-scoring match, he anticipates the Irish defense, despite the experience of Oregon State’s Ben Gulbranson, to make a strong impact. Envisaging a run-heavy strategy for Notre Dame, Sánchez Córdova predicts a close victory, securing a 10-win season for Marcus Freeman and the Irish: Notre Dame 17, Oregon State 7.
Andrew McGuinness, Sports Editor:
McGuinness acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the game due to a high number of opt-outs, including both starting quarterbacks and key coaching staff. Highlighting the challenges posed by Notre Dame’s receiving corps and offensive line, he anticipates a significant emphasis on the running game. Despite the disruptions, McGuinness emphasizes the resilience of the Irish defense. He sees this game as an opportunity for Marcus Freeman to demonstrate his coaching prowess, especially in non-marquee matchups, where Notre Dame has faced challenges in the past. Predicting a successful outcome, McGuinness envisions the Irish closing the season on a positive note: Notre Dame 24, Oregon State 13.
J.J. Post, Associate Sports Editor:
Post acknowledges the difficulty in predicting the outcome, citing slight advantages for Notre Dame in terms of production lost to opt-outs but recognizing Oregon State’s experience at the quarterback position. Anticipating a challenging and potentially ugly game, Post puts faith in Notre Dame’s defense as the strongest unit on the field. Expecting a ground-heavy approach from Notre Dame, he suggests that if the interim offensive coordinator can secure over 150 rushing yards from the underclassmen, the Irish should be able to control the game. Predicting a final score of Notre Dame 27, Oregon State 17.
Matthew Crow, Associate Sports Editor:
Crow foresees a significant challenge for the Notre Dame offense against Oregon State, especially with the departure of offensive coordinator Gerad Parker and key opt-outs. Expecting the Irish to focus on a slowed-down, rushing-centric approach and rely on their strong defense, he acknowledges the potential difficulty for quarterback Steve Angeli against the Oregon State defense. Despite the challenges, Crow notes Oregon State’s struggles in their regular season finale and without starting quarterback Uiagalelei. Predicting a close contest, he believes the Irish will do enough to secure a victory and close out the season with 10 wins. Notre Dame 27, Oregon State 20.
Tom Zwiller, Senior Sports Writer:
Considering the increasing levels of opt-outs in bowl games, Zwiller adopts a strategy of favoring more consistent teams—those with greater returning production and established chemistry. Acknowledging the defensive strength of both Notre Dame and Oregon State, he anticipates that defensive prowess will carry over into the Sun Bowl. Zwiller predicts challenges for Notre Dame’s offense, not due to play calling but rather due to new starters adjusting to the game and each other. Despite Oregon State having an offensive edge with quarterback Ben Gulbranson’s experience, Zwiller leans towards Notre Dame in a low-scoring contest, predicting a final score of Notre Dame 23, Oregon State 17.
