Assessing the Risk of Playing Jeremiyah Love in the Orange Bowl
Since Notre Dame’s season-closing win over USC on November 30, running back Jeremiyah Love has been battling lingering health issues. Despite a spectacular 98-yard touchdown run in the College Football Playoff first-round win against Indiana—while also dealing with a cold—it was clear Love wasn’t at full strength.
The situation worsened in the Sugar Bowl victory over Georgia on January 2. Love appeared to aggravate a knee injury, forcing him to don a brace and leave the field with a noticeable limp. His condition has sparked concern among fans and analysts ahead of Notre Dame’s Orange Bowl clash with Penn State on January 9.
In a video from WNDU, Love is seen wearing a knee brace, his limp raising questions about his readiness. This has fueled debate over whether it’s worth risking further injury to have him play if he’s less than 90% healthy.
The Dilemma
Notre Dame undoubtedly wants its best players on the field to secure a win and advance to the national championship. Love’s game-changing ability has been pivotal to the team’s success this season. However, the injury bug has plagued the Irish repeatedly, yet they’ve managed to keep winning.
Can Notre Dame realistically beat Penn State without Love, saving him for a potential title game against the winner of Ohio State vs. Texas? It’s a high-stakes gamble with no room for assumptions about future matchups.
If Love is limited to 50-60% of his capacity, is it worth playing him? With nearly two weeks between the Orange Bowl and the CFP National Championship, preserving him for a stronger showing at 75% or better might be critical for winning it all.
Alternatives in the Backfield
If Love isn’t available or can only play sparingly, the Irish will rely on running backs Jadarian Price, Aneyas Williams, and Riley Leonard to carry the ground attack. While capable, the trio doesn’t replicate the unique game-wrecking presence that Love brings.
Final Decision
Notre Dame’s coaching staff faces a tough call. Do they push Love to play in a limited role, risking aggravation of his injury? Or do they play it safe and count on their depth to carry them past Penn State?
Love’s determination to suit up for the Orange Bowl is unquestionable, but his health and long-term impact on the team’s title aspirations will ultimately guide the decision. Balancing the urgency of the present with the potential glory of a championship hangs in the balance.
