While the Notre Dame Fighting Irish bounced back from their shocking upset at the hands of the Northern Illinois Huskies with a 66-7 win over the Purdue Boilermakers, the game wasn’t all positives for the Irish.
In the second quarter, offensive lineman Ashton Craig and defensive lineman Jordan Bothelo left the game with knee injuries.
Both injuries looked very concerning at the time, and during Monday’s media availability, head coach Marcus Freeman confirmed that both players would miss the remainder of the season.
Marcus Freeman says defensive end Jordan Botelho and center Ashton Craig are out for the season. Guard Billy Schrauth only out a few weeks.
Pat Coogan and Rocco Spindler into the starting lineup this week.
— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) September 16, 2024
Craig had been starting at center for the Irish this season after starting at the position for the final three games of the 2023 season. Craig, a redshirt sophomore, will be replaced by junior Pat Coogan.
Botelho has been a linebacker/defensive end hybrid for the Fighting Irish. The senior has recorded 11.5 sacks in his Notre Dame career, including one this season. To gain an extra year of eligibility, he would have to appeal to the NCAA.
Craig wasn’t the only injury on the Notre Dame offensive line, as Sampson notes that Freeman said guard Billy Schrauth will be out for a few weeks and replaced by Rocco Spindler.
Notre Dame will return to action on September 21 and host the Miami Redhawks.
