Marcus Freeman says Boise State quarterback ‘has the it factor’

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Notre Dame may be finding its stride with back-to-back wins, but this weekend’s test still comes against an explosive offense: Boise State.

The Broncos rank ninth nationally in total offense, averaging 520 yards per game — right behind No. 4 Ole Miss. At the center of it all is quarterback Maddox Madsen, who’s proven he can hurt defenses both through the air and on the ground.

Head coach Marcus Freeman didn’t hold back when describing the challenge Madsen presents.

“He’s a playmaker, he has the it factor,” Freeman said. “He’s a tough guy and he’s confident in his arm… he’s definitely going to be a great challenge for us.”

Notre Dame’s defense, which just held Arkansas scoreless in the second half last week, will need to replicate that effort to slow down a Boise State team that leads the Mountain West and thrives on tempo and balance.

The Irish are aiming for their third straight win, but Freeman made it clear — it’ll take a full-team effort to contain Madsen and Boise’s high-powered attack.