'16 CA QB Ian Book (Notre Dame Signed NLI)

[T-Boone]

Just one quick example:

This whole conversation should just stop. (also, the only reason I'm adding is in hopes of people "snapping out of it").

If they don't at least test him out in practice catching a few passes and or lining up at RB (the way they did with Avery Davis) then it is utterly nuts. Maybe his athleticism doesnt translate across but the point is that IF it does then he would be an awesome weapon that could be way more useful than just a backup QB. Not many of the WRs or RBs can make a tackler miss in open space the way BW can.

 

[FightingIrishLover7]

If they don't at least test him out in practice catching a few passes and or lining up at RB (the way they did with Avery Davis) then it is utterly nuts. Maybe his athleticism doesnt translate across but the point is that IF it does then he would be an awesome weapon that could be way more useful than just a backup QB. Not many of the WRs or RBs can make a tackler miss in open space the way BW can.

WHY would anyone EVER move the only other active QB on the roster to another position? That is LUDICROUS. That would be like using your queen as a pawn and using your king exposed.

 

[TDHeysus]

Just one quick example:

TDHeysus:
..........

This whole conversation should just stop. (also, the only reason I'm adding is in hopes of people "snapping out of it").

My whole point is this - leaving Wimbush on the sidelines holding a clipboard is wasting his talent. Get him in the game in the context of a Book-led offense; if it makes you feel better to have Wimbush and Book on the field and call them both quarterback, then do so.

Let's see that offense Ian Book led, infused with Wimbush.

 

[FightingIrishLover7]

My whole point is this - leaving Wimbush on the sidelines holding a clipboard is wasting his talent. Get him in the game in the context of a Book-led offense; if it makes you feel better to have Wimbush and Book on the field and call them both quarterback, then do so.

Let's see that offense Ian Book led, infused with Wimbush.

It would be great to get him on the field in some other capacity (assuming he's good enough). But, unfortunately, we don't have that luxury given our QB depth.

We can run QB packages with him (or god forbid, replace Ian). That's it. End of story. Any position switch talk is out of question and a fruitless conversation.

 

[ND88]

If they don't at least test him out in practice catching a few passes and or lining up at RB (the way they did with Avery Davis) then it is utterly nuts. Maybe his athleticism doesnt translate across but the point is that IF it does then he would be an awesome weapon that could be way more useful than just a backup QB. Not many of the WRs or RBs can make a tackler miss in open space the way BW can.

I think your intentions here are good. You recognize a dynamic athelete in Brandon and think it is a shame to see his talents relegated to idleness on the sideline. At the same time, the writing on the wall favors Book as our starter moving forward. Although what you propose will likely never happen, it is certainly NOT ludicrous to contemplate it and definitely not a proposal to pop a vein over on a message board. While I agree he should see the field in some capacity, I think he needs to be ready to go in as our quarterback, as nothing is ever guaranteed for any one player and we may need his experience in that role again depending. Book needs someone to back him up at this time, and that person is now Brandon.

 

[Free Manera]

If they don't at least test him out in practice catching a few passes and or lining up at RB (the way they did with Avery Davis) then it is utterly nuts. Maybe his athleticism doesnt translate across but the point is that IF it does then he would be an awesome weapon that could be way more useful than just a backup QB. Not many of the WRs or RBs can make a tackler miss in open space the way BW can.

I hate to waste Wimbush's talent as well, but:

1. He doesn't know how to be a receiver or running back. Avery Davis (and Braxton Miller, and any other position changes you can point to that worked out) was taught the position over the offseason. You can't expect Wimbush learn to run routes during the season. As for running back, he would have to learn to run differently, run routes, catch, and the hardest thing- block. If he can't block or run routes you're just telegraphing the ball is going to him when he's in the game.

2. We need a healthy backup that can play if needed.

 

[T-Boone]

That would be like using your queen as a pawn and using your king exposed.

Well I wouldn't do that, but I would use a back up queen as a rook and bank on not needing another queen and go on to win the national chess championship because I've got a queen and 3 rooks and no back up queen.

 

[Irish YJ]

I'm not saying he'd make a good WR or RB.

I will say, that if they don't find a meaningful way to get him involved, he gone.... He's not going to stay to be QB2, or for a special package every once in a while.

In short, you're sacrificing your queen (or queen2) at the end of the season anyway. I also don't think it's far too far fetched for him to learn a new position during the season. A QB already understands WR plays/routes, so the base of knowledge is already there. The question is, can he run a good route and can he catch the ball.

If BK is only concerned with the next 8-9 games, and is OK with BW transferring at the end of the season, then leave him at QB2.

 

[loomis41973]

I think a transfer should/will be in his future....or just take the degree and get to work.

A degree will take him farther than any position on a NFL team.

Seeing BW in one more game will tell let us all know. I doubt we see him....and I actually know the story.

 

[Irishnuke]

Having your backup QB change positions is the dumbest thing I think I’ve read on IE.

 

[koonja]

Unless Book has a major injury, I have no concerns with BW transferring in 2019.

 

[StPaul_Irish]

I hate to waste Wimbush's talent as well, but:

1. He doesn't know how to be a receiver or running back. Avery Davis (and Braxton Miller, and any other position changes you can point to that worked out) was taught the position over the offseason. You can't expect Wimbush learn to run routes during the season. As for running back, he would have to learn to run differently, run routes, catch, and the hardest thing- block. If he can't block or run routes you're just telegraphing the ball is going to him when he's in the game.

2. We need a healthy backup that can play if needed.

THIS----- Plus Wimbush just may be the "starter" at some point depending on who we play. At least that is my interpretation of BKs presser. If the shoe fits for a particular game we just may see that.

I know many/most of you are anti 2 QBs, but it could just work out. Brandon does throw well enough that a Defense can't just automatically stack the box if he is in the game. Hell, BW could pitch to ADavis, who turns and fire a bomb to WR X..... I think it is more of an embarrassment of riches vs. the 2 QBs = 0 QBs argument.

That being said, I don't want them running out a new QB every series... That is just silly talk.

 

[Hammer Of The Gods]

I'm not saying he'd make a good WR or RB.

I will say, that if they don't find a meaningful way to get him involved, he gone.... He's not going to stay to be QB2, or for a special package every once in a while.

In short, you're sacrificing your queen (or queen2) at the end of the season anyway. I also don't think it's far too far fetched for him to learn a new position during the season. A QB already understands WR plays/routes, so the base of knowledge is already there. The question is, can he run a good route and can he catch the ball.

If BK is only concerned with the next 8-9 games, and is OK with BW transferring at the end of the season, then leave him at QB2.

To me this is the million dollar question. What is Kelly's end game? Make the playoffs or a New Years Bowl, call it good and ride off into the sunset, or is he in it for another 2/3 years?

 

[IrishFanJMercy]

After what i've seen from Book and Wimbush so far this year I think there is a 5% chance Wimbush is at ND next year, my money is he transfers close to home I'm betting on Penn State. I think Book is our starter for the rest of this year and next, then Phil takes the helm.

 

[NDVirginia19]

After what i've seen from Book and Wimbush so far this year I think there is a 5% chance Wimbush is at ND next year, my money is he transfers close to home I'm betting on Penn State. I think Book is our starter for the rest of this year and next, then Phil takes the helm.

As far as best utilizing his talents, GT would certainly be the best place for him

 

[NDIrish88]

After what i've seen from Book and Wimbush so far this year I think there is a 5% chance Wimbush is at ND next year, my money is he transfers close to home I'm betting on Penn State. I think Book is our starter for the rest of this year and next, then Phil takes the helm.

Next year Wimbush is gone, but we need him this year still. What if Ian goes down with an injury? Then ND should roll with Wimbush. Phil isn't ready yet. Next year Ian is going to compete with Phil.

 

[NDty9]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

 

[stlnd01]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

This is kind of where I'm at. Very curious to see how he does the next two weeks, against quality defenses that know to prepare for him. I don't think we should write off Wimbush just yet.

 

[PANDFAN]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

he will make dumb mistakes as we have seen with him thinking he can make some throws that he isn't able to...HOWEVER the entire offense everytime he has been at qb has looked energized and i feel that everyone on the offense looks more confident when he is at the helm

 

[Hammer Of The Gods]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

I feel like Wimbush plays not to screw up, which of course leads to screwing up.

I look at Book as a homeless mans Brett Favre. He elevated those around him and plays hard. Now, he's gonna make us scratch our heads at times, but I do think that he can take the pressure.

 

[IrishLax]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

I'm waiting until after this week's game to be sold. Wake is trash, Wimbush would've probably gotten the team to 40+ points but just looked way uglier doing it.

If Book can light up Stanford, he can light up anyone remaining on the schedule.

 

[Irish Insanity]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

Fair question, and I'm in the same place. However, how confident is anyone in BW?
As far as the 'why wouldn't he have been playing him the entire time' question. Didn't BK say something about the rest of the offense needing to be brought along slowly and the way to do that was start the experienced BW vs UofM.

 

[BobbyMac]

Keeping quality #2 QB's will be tougher over the next few seasons. With the addition of 16 new pro teams by 2020, there will be increased pressure for guys to find situations where then can get off the pine and shine.

 

[PANDFAN]

Keeping quality #2 QB's will be tougher over the next few seasons. With the addition of 16 new pro teams by 2020, there will be increased pressure for guys to find situations where then can get off the pine and shine.

and the new 4 game situation.....already looking like Kelly is on his way out at clemson

 

[fightingirish26]

Keeping quality #2 QB's will be tougher over the next few seasons. With the addition of 16 new pro teams by 2020, there will be increased pressure for guys to find situations where then can get off the pine and shine.

right on cue...Kelly Bryant gone

 

[Veritate Duce Progredi]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

I think Book looks fearless and ready to compete. I think Wimbush gave us everything he had and the coaches hoped he'd take the next step. It didn't happen. He's a running QB with a cannon but major accuracy issues (and he's incapable of reading a defense).

Ian is nearly the exact opposite but he's got decent athleticism. Ian reads the defense, checks down quickly, completes the passes he should. Haven't seen many deep balls so that's the big question mark. We have the speed to attempt more downfield throws but outside of that question mark, I like everything Ian does.

Now the coaches will wait, just like us, to see how he performs against stiffer competition. But make no mistake, Stanford is not a defensive juggernaut this year. Michigan is sitting at #3 total defense. Stanford is #56, we're #65.

Stanford is weak against the pass - #84, #39 against the rush. We're #77/#62 comparatively.

Stanford is highly ranked in sacks and Ints
We're a step below in Sacks, better at TFLs and T-INTs.

They are 12th in the country at defending red zone conversions.

Stanford doesn't give up big plays, but they are weak in the 10-29 range. Same as us but we're weaker in the 10-19 but much stronger in the 20+.

This game will be dictated by the usual things: Sustained drives, converting points, generating pressure and forcing TOs.

We can't leave points on the table and we have to contain Bryce Love and find a way to defend their TEs.

It'd be great to put a number of hits on Costello as well.

We need Kareem and the entire DL to show up bigly for this game.

 

[ColinKSU]

I'm not sold at all on Book, but he played well enough against Wake to deserve another start. If anything, though, I'm closer to being sold on Wimbush not being the answer than I am to Book being the answer.

 

[IrishLax]

Wimbush already has a redshirt year so the 4 games thing doesn't matter. He will almost surely play out the year here, and would be eligible immediately as a graduate transfer if that's what he elects to do after that. There would be absolutely zero reason for him to keep himself out of games in this season or transfer mid-season.

 

[NDRock]

Is everyone SOLD on Ian? Just curious as to how confident the board is?

Obviously he looked amazing out at Wake Forest, but what is everyone's confidence level going into a game against a MUCHHH better defense?

I'm not doubting him at all, just trying to build my own confidence up i guess lol. I just keep thinking, why wouldn't he have been playing this entire time if he was THAT good?? Granted, Kelly clearly wanted to give BW every chance in the world, I get that.

(Again, I'm not trying to be negative at all, just looking for a little reassurance i guess haha, because i LOVEDDD what i saw last week, and praying its the REAL THING)

I'm sold on him being our best option for this year, with this team, and with the scheme the coaches want to run. I'm not sold that he can lead us into the playoffs.

 

[ACamp1900]

I'm not sold at all on Book, but he played well enough against Wake to deserve another start. If anything, though, I'm closer to being sold on Wimbush not being the answer than I am to Book being the answer.

Yeah, I'm in 'wait and see' mode... and we most definitely will see.