3 Notre Dame defensive players who could give Ohio State hard time in CFP natty

As Notre Dame prepares to face the fearsome Ohio State offense, the Irish defense will need some big performances. Ohio State's offense puts up 35.8 points per game and is one of the most talented and deep units in college football. But Notre Dame has a stingy defense led by a couple of stalwart defenders who could tangle up the Buckeyes.

The Irish will miss massive defensive tackle Rylie Mills, who led the team in tackles for loss and sacks, but was injured in Notre Dame's CFP first round game with Indiana. Mills will miss the game, but plenty of his teammates who helped hold opponents to 14.3 ppg will be ready. Here are three of the most important Irish defenders:

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Top three Notre Dame defenders who could slow Ohio State

LB Jack Kiser's excellent season could have an epic final chapter against Ohio State. (Photo Credit: IMAGN)

#3 Leonard Moore, CB

A true freshman, Moore has seen more action as the season has progressed. He has 43 tackles and broken up 10 passes, including a pair of interceptions. All 10 of the pass break-ups have come over the last nine games, as Moore has earned more playing time.

Moore will need plenty of help, but the raw Texas athlete has grown his way into a major role in a challenging battle. If he can throw Jeremiah Smith and the Buckeyes off-kilter, he could be an immediate hero.

#2 Jack Kiser, LB

A senior standout, Kiser's 85 tackles lead the Irish. He has also amassed four tackles for loss, two sacks, three QB hurries, two fumbles forced and a pass break up. Kiser has been a dependable presence for the Irish defense down the season's stretch. In three CFP games, Kiser has 21 tackles.

He had a sack and forced a fumble against Georgia. With Mills missing up front, Kiser's role might require more attacking plays. Notre Dame's weakened pass rush could use a jolt of energy and Kiser is certainly capable of providing it.

#1 Xavier Watts, S

Watts is the most pivotal cog within the Notre Dame defense. A consensus All-American pick, Watts is the backbone of the Irish. He has posted 74 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 15 pass break-ups, including six interceptions.

If Notre Dame can occupy Ohio State up front, they could create enough time for Watts to swoop around on the back end and make plentiful plays against OSU's receivers. Watts will also be crucial in run support against Treveyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. A big game from Watts is a must for the Irish.

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