Notre Dame Heartbreak as Key Starters Face Season-Ending Absences After Major Surgery

The injury update for Notre Dame football, following their decisive victory over Purdue, has brought disappointing news. Starting offensive linemen Billy Schrauth and Ashton Craig, as well as starting defensive end Jordan Botelho, were all helped off the field during the game. On Monday, Marcus Freeman confirmed that Craig and Botelho will be sidelined for the remainder of the season, while Schrauth is expected to miss at least a few weeks.

Although the severity of these injuries was apparent during the game, the official confirmation remains a significant blow for the Irish. Schrauth’s injury seemed particularly severe at the time, but there is hope he may return later in the season. The vague “a few weeks” timeline reflects the common uncertainty in college football injury updates, where detailed reports are not always provided.

In an unusual turn, Notre Dame’s depth has been tested as replacements for Craig and Schrauth have gained valuable experience. Rocco Spindler and Pat Coogan, both of whom have previous starting experience, will fill in. Spindler, who competed for the left guard position in the fall, will now replace Schrauth at right guard, while Coogan, originally recruited as a center, will take over for Craig.

Notre Dame began the season with a relatively inexperienced offensive line, with only six combined starts among its linemen. The team has faced significant setbacks, including losing starting left tackle Charles Jagusah during the summer. This sequence of injuries highlights the challenges of depth in the era of the transfer portal, as players who lost position battles in camp are now stepping up as starters.

On a brighter note, Notre Dame’s run blocking, which may be crucial this season, is expected to remain strong. However, Schrauth and Craig were considered superior pass blockers, which made their roles in the starting lineup critical throughout camp.

For Botelho, who was having an exceptional season and was considered one of Notre Dame’s top defenders, this injury is particularly tough. Despite previous struggles and required growth, Botelho had been performing at a high level. With Botelho out, Boubar Traore, who recently scored a pick-six against Purdue, will start at the VYPER position, and true freshman Bryce Young is likely to see increased playing time. Junior Tuihalamaka will also see more snaps in Botelho’s absence.

Botelho might have the opportunity to apply for a sixth year of eligibility, given that his freshman season in 2020 was impacted by the pandemic, and his current season-ending injury occurred early in this season.