Notre Dame football faces significant challenges as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against USC, particularly with the injury updates concerning key players. Senior defensive tackle Gabriel Rubio and sophomore defensive end Loghan Thomas have both been ruled out. Rubio, who has been a cornerstone of the defensive line and started eight of the last nine games, is sidelined due to a left arm injury. This season, he has tallied 13 tackles, a sack, and six pressures, leading all Irish defensive tackles with 173 defensive snaps. His absence will likely be felt deeply, as he was recently recognized on the Hispanic College Football Player of the Year watch list for his contributions.
“We’ve had a committee at defensive tackle,” noted Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman during a Thursday conference call. “Obviously, you don’t want to lose Gabe, just from experience, from production, from a veteran guy.” In Rubio’s absence, USC transfer Elijah Hughes and Louisville grad transfer Jared Dawson are expected to step up alongside team captain Donovan Hinish, fifth-year senior Jason Onye, and redshirt freshman Cole Mullins.
Additionally, Loghan Thomas, who has proven to be a vital component of Notre Dame’s special teams with 101 plays, has been ruled out due to a concussion. Freeman emphasized the importance of Thomas’s contributions, particularly on special teams, stating that they will need to find an adequate replacement for this role.
In a more positive note for the team, Joe Otting will step into the starting center position, replacing the injured Ashton Craig. Otting performed admirably in his limited time last week, helping the Irish secure a decisive 36-7 victory over N.C. State.
As preparations continue, a few players remain listed as questionable, including wide receiver Jaden Greathouse, nickelback DeVonta Smith, tight end Cooper Flanagan, and freshman offensive lineman Will Black.
Facing a USC team ranked 21st in the US LBM Coaches Poll and coming off a successful game, Notre Dame will need every remaining player to elevate their performance to secure a win. The resilience and depth of the squad will be crucial as they navigate these injury challenges.