Two years ago, we saw what can happen when all goes wrong.
Last year, we saw what its like when everything goes our way.
This year, obviously a lot comes into play when thinking about the year. On defense, we lose Manti, Kap, and Motta. I think the secondary will improve and defensive line won't miss a beat. ILB will obviously be different from what we are used to. I think the OLB will be good. Overall, I don't expect much of a change on defense, maybe a little better depending on how people develop.
Offensively, as Lax pointed out a lot hinges on Golson. He progressed nicely last year to the point he was no longer limiting the offense. He showed a lot of promise IMO towards the end of the year. If he can be a baller this year and make plays, I think we are BCS bound. We lose the two OL Golic and Cave, so I think center will see a drop. Overall I think the line will be solid, not great but not bad. Losing Eifert hurts and we will be unproven at RB. I'm hoping TJ Jones, Daniels, and Brown can be go to options on offense.
Overall, I'm excited for this year and my expectations are through the roof. I don't see any team on the schedule that outdoes us talent-wise. This year will show us if there is still a lot more work to be done on rebuilding Notre Dame football and last year was a "fluke" or if we have arrived and are once again a dominant fixture in CFB.
With the talent we have, I'll say it... 12-0 please. I realize this is won't be easy, an undefeated season never is, but it is possible. We have to get past the idea that we don't deserve to be here, we are just as good as other big time programs. Lets raise our expectations for the program. We are that good once again
