Notre Dame offensive line depth hit by midweek injury ahead of Michigan State clash

Notre Dame football faces a significant reduction in offensive line depth following a midweek injury to backup offensive tackle Owen Strebig. The setback arrives just days before the team’s scheduled match against Michigan State, disrupting the roster configuration as the squad had previously been trending towards full health.

Strebig, who was listed as the second-string right tackle behind starter Guerby Lambert, is expected to miss the game. His absence necessitates an immediate adjustment to the depth chart, moving true freshmen Charlie Thom and Grayson McKeogh into the two-deep. Both players entered the program as four-star prospects but currently lack experience at the collegiate level.

Head coach Marcus Freeman has expressed confidence in the young linemen, noting that the coaching staff is prepared to play them if they are deemed ready. Freeman indicated that the team has faith in the ability of McKeogh and Thom to perform should they see time on the field during the contest.

The injury also introduces a contingency plan regarding the team’s personnel. Freeman stated that Notre Dame may consider moving Anthonie Knapp back to the tackle position if further injuries occur. The move is described as a conditional response to maintain success on the offensive line rather than a current certainty.

Reporting by beat writer Jack Soble on 17 September 2026 highlighted the potential impact of the injury on the game plan. Soble noted that any further issues on the offensive line could result in significant in-game changes, making the position a key area to monitor this weekend.

The specific nature and severity of Strebig’s injury have not been detailed in official reports. However, the shift in the depth chart underscores the reliance on inexperienced players to support the starting unit in a critical fixture.