Notre Dame's defensive unit has suffered a significant blow as starting nose tackle Howard Cross III will be sidelined for the upcoming game against Virginia. Head coach Marcus Freeman announced the news, providing insights into the nature of the injury and the team's plans to navigate this setback.

Injury Sidelines a Key Defensive Contributor

Cross III's Absence Leaves a Void in the Defensive Line

The loss of Howard Cross III is a significant one for the Notre Dame football team. As a graduate senior and a preseason Associated Press First Team All-American, Cross III has been a crucial part of the Fighting Irish's defensive success this season. Through the first nine games, he has recorded an impressive stat line, including 23 tackles, four sacks, 5.5 tackles for loss, and three quarterback hurries.Cross III's absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field, as the Notre Dame defense will need to adjust its strategies and personnel to compensate for the loss of their starting nose tackle. The team's coaching staff, led by head coach Marcus Freeman, will need to devise a plan to ensure the defense remains stout and effective without their defensive anchor.

Hinish Steps Up to Fill the Void

In Cross III's absence, junior Donovan Hinish will be tasked with stepping into the starting role at nose tackle. Hinish has already proven his worth, stepping up against Florida State with five tackles and two sacks. Throughout the season, Hinish has recorded 19 tackles, 2.5 sacks, two quarterback hurries, and one pass breakup.The coaching staff has expressed confidence in Hinish's ability to fill the void left by Cross III's injury. With Hinish's previous experience and strong performance this season, the team believes he can effectively anchor the defensive line and maintain the unit's high level of play.

Injury Report Highlights Additional Concerns

In addition to the loss of Cross III, the Notre Dame injury report also includes several other players with questionable status for the upcoming game against Virginia. Punt returner Max Hurleman, running back Devyn Ford, and defensive end Loghan Thomas are all listed as questionable, with varying degrees of injury severity.Hurleman, a graduate transfer from Colgate, has been a valuable contributor on special teams, returning 10 punts for 78 yards this season. His potential absence could impact the team's special teams unit, and the coaching staff is closely monitoring his recovery.Ford, a graduate senior, plays a reserve role in the backfield and on special teams. His injury status will be closely watched, as the team has depth at the running back position with Jeremiyah Love, Jadarian Price, and Aneyas Williams all seeing regular playing time.Lastly, the potential return of freshman defensive end Loghan Thomas is also being closely monitored. Thomas has seen action in eight games this season, primarily on special teams, and his presence could provide valuable depth on the defensive line.As the Notre Dame football team prepares for their final regular-season game at home, the coaching staff will need to navigate these injury concerns and ensure the team is as healthy and prepared as possible to take on the Virginia Cavaliers.