(photo courtesy Rick Kimball/Irish Sports Daily)

(Notre Dame) — Marcus Freeman announced safety Luke Talich will be out for Saturday’s game with a left wrist injury. His safety slot will be taken by highly-touted freshman Joey O’Brien.

“Joey has done a great role in his starting job this week,” lauded Irish head coach Marcus Freeman during his final pre-game media availability. “Ethan Long will be the next guy in and he’s had a really good week. This is why you recruit. This is why you have depth, and this is why young guys have to practice in a way to be ready to play. You don’t know what each Saturday is going to present. If you wait for your opportunity, it’s going to be too late.”

O’Brien started the season as the third-string safety, but injuries to both Brauntae Johnson (left foot) and Talich have necessitated an increased role for the freshman from Philadelphia.

Freeman also gave updates on a pair of injured players. Receiver Quincy Porter (left knee) has increased his practice volume and “could be a couple weeks away”, while offensive guard Matty Augustine (right foot) is making progress but has no timetable for a return.

Freeman was asked about comments from Purdue coach Barry Odom that the rivalry may be in jeopardy of continuing, saying “Every administration has to do what they feel is right for their program. We’d love to continue this long-standing rivalry for many reasons. It’s a highly-respected opponent that is close by. We value the rivalry on our end.”

Notre Dame and Purdue meet for the 90th time Saturday at Ross-Ade Stadium. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. with the broadcast only streaming on Peacock.