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Notre Dame is averaging 114.5 rushing yards per game and 3.58 per carry through two games, with inconsistent production from the line and backs. CJ Carr has been sacked only once for eight yards, so sack losses do not explain the low rushing totals. The preview separates the run-blocking concern from stronger early pass protection.

Aneyas Williams has taken 45.3% of Notre Dame's running-back carries. Nolan James Jr. and Jonaz Walton have combined for 96 yards on 21 carries, and James has five catches for 66 yards and a touchdown. The writer sees potential for the rotation to shift toward the younger backs, but reports no announced depth-chart or workload change.

Michigan State's Alessio Milivojevic has completed about 70% of his passes for 417 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions through two games. Cam Edwards has 250 rushing yards and three touchdowns after workloads of 27 and 21 carries. Those results came against Toledo and Eastern Michigan; the preview treats Notre Dame as a stronger defensive test.

Michigan State linebacker Jordan Hall missed Eastern Michigan with a right-elbow injury suffered against Toledo. Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman expects Hall to return for their matchup. That is the opposing coach's expectation, not a Michigan State clearance announcement or confirmation of Hall's snap count.

Michigan State has six sacks through two games, including three from Illinois-transfer defensive tackle Eli Coenen. Joe Rossi has also used defensive end Kenny Soares Jr. in coverage, producing an interception against Toledo. The early front has generated disruption against MAC opponents; its effectiveness against Notre Dame's protection remains unproven.