Marcus Freeman applauds Blake Horvath over decision-making for Navy

Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman had nothing but good things to say about Blake Horvath ahead of a matchup with Navy. The quarterback has led the Midshipmen to an undefeated 6-0 record so far this season entering a matchup against the Fighting Irish on Saturday in South Bend.

Speaking in a press conference on Monday, Freeman noted Horvath’s ability as a decision-maker, knowing when is the right time to take off and run versus when to stay in the pocket and pass. That is something Notre Dame will have to deal with as it looks to avoid another home upset.

“He makes really good decisions,” Freeman said of the Navy QB. “He’s a good decision-maker. If you give him one read, he’s gonna do exactly what he’s supposed to do. If you give him another read, he’s gonna do exactly what he’s supposed to do. He’s a threat with his legs, but he’s also been doing really well in the pass game. He’s experienced and he’s doing a great job leading that offense.”

Horvath has thrown for 621 yards and 10 touchdowns to only on interception this season. However, most of his damage has come on the ground, where he has 888 yards and another 10 scores.

That isn’t to say that the Fighting Irish should discount Horvath through the air, however. Freeman knows that he can be equally dangerous in the aerial attack and his team will have to be prepared for his quick decision-making more than anything.

Notre Dame is 6-1 on the season and can’t avoid another embarrassing loss like it suffered to North Illinois earlier this year if it hopes to keeps its playoff chances alive. Kickoff between the Fighting Irish and Navy is set for noon ET on Saturday and the game will be televised on NBC.