Notre Dame loses two starting linemen for the season

Notre Dame's recent victory over Purdue came at a significant cost, as the team lost two starting linemen, Ashton Craig and Jordan Botelho, to season-ending knee injuries. Both players were injured during the second quarter of the game, which ended in a historic 66-7 win for the Fighting Irish, marking the largest defeat in Purdue's history. Craig, who had been starting at center, had previously filled in for another injured player, Charles Jagusah, who is out for the season due to a torn pectoral muscle. In addition to Craig and Botelho, the team will also be without starting guard Billy Schrauth for several weeks due to a right ankle injury sustained in the first quarter against Purdue. Botelho, who played at the viper position, had been a key contributor with 12 tackles and a sack this season. The injuries have forced the coaching staff to make significant adjustments to the lineup ahead of their upcoming game against Miami (Ohio). Boubacar Traore, a second-year freshman, is set to take over Botelho's position, while junior Pat Coogan will step in as the starting center. Junior Rocco Spindler is also expected to start at right guard in place of Schrauth. Coach Marcus Freeman expressed confidence in the abilities of the replacements, indicating that the team is prepared to adapt to these challenges. Despite the injuries, starting wide receiver Jordan Faison, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury from the season opener, is expected to return to full participation for the Miami (Ohio) game. The team will need to rally together to maintain their momentum in the face of these setbacks.