The Irish are transitioning to a new offense in 2023, as coordinator Tommy Rees left for Alabama and a new quarterback, Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman, takes over under center. That means the defense will need to lead the way during the first few weeks. This will work in the Midshipmen's favor, as Notre Dame returns less than 35% of pressures and stops from last year's defense. The defensive front, in particular, will be inexperienced, as the top three creators of pressure — Isaiah Foskey, Jayson Ademilola, and Justin Ademilola — have all moved on.

Navy is also in transition, with defensive coordinator Brian Newberry taking over as the team's head coach and Grant Chesnut (Kennesaw State) taking over the offensive coordinator role. Bettors should expect a slightly changed Midshipmen attack, with more creative Triple Option formations and an emphasis on physicality. The good news is, Navy returns 78% of its offensive line snaps and 84% of its rushing yards, so if the O adapts the new formations quickly, the Irish will be in for a closer game than expected.

Navy has experience where it matters. In the first game of the season, that will be clear. This should be a double-digit game, giving the advantage to the Midshipmen at +20.5!