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Notre Dame removed linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa's questionable designation from Thursday's availability update after he missed Wisconsin while returning from an ACL tear; Marcus Freeman reported a good practice week and optimism that he could help against Rice, without promising a full workload.

Notre Dame used only three linebackers on defense against Wisconsin, leaving Madden Faraimo's work on special teams; Freeman praised that contribution but did not announce a larger defensive role or confirm the article's suggested five-man rotation against Rice.

Freeman described Rice's triple option as using substantially more shotgun than the Army and Navy versions Notre Dame has faced, while retaining the dive, quarterback and pitch responsibilities that make disciplined reads essential for the Irish defense.

Notre Dame defensive tackle Jason Onye remains out with a left ankle injury, increasing the option-defense responsibilities of transfers Tionne Gray and Francis Brewu, whom the report describes as less experienced against that offense.

Freeman said starting defensive ends Boubacar Traore and Bryce Young will play against Rice after practicing their assignments, despite limited college option experience: Traore did not play against Navy last season, while Young logged only 16 snaps in that game.