This whole situation is super perplexing. I get it. We don’t need to pile on a 22 year old who did his best, but so much about it stands out. Also what else is an Internet message board for.
It really seems like his family couldn’t let go of the dream of their son being an athletic talent in the family tradition. He was a full 2 years older than his class in HS so he could stand out, and I’d be shocked if his ‘Stage Dad’ (H/T John Walters) wasn’t involved in making sure he got the ND offer.
He had times where he looked serviceable and times when he wouldn’t be QB1 for Sorin College. He is supposed to be an IVy League kid, it was his 3rd year in the program, and he still needed a Scan offense to move the ball, woof.
Several posters point out that he gave his all. I’m sure this is true. Others have said he was a team guy. I’m not sure I buy that he was so much of a leader on the team. Maybe, but in my experience the rich kid, try-hard isn’t typically a universally respected leader.
The fact that he blindsided the staff to leave early, suggests he really isn’t a team first guy, so all of the criticism seems a lot more warranted today than yesterday.
He’s young, rich and I wish him no ill will. But I am happy he’s gone because it was agonizing to watch him play.