'19 GA ATH Steele Chambers (Ohio State Verbal)

[snoopdog]

denson is one of the reasons we even get in with these kids...we don't put rb in the league and rb want that pedigree....jonas gray(basically is known for his monday night game and then being late and getting cut), cierre wood(couldn't make it), cj prosise(always hurt), theo riddick(3rd down back) folston, cam mcdaniel....these aren't ringing endorsements when you look at the other top teams getting the backs

We probably should lower our standards a tiny bit and instead of recruiting running backs, we should be looking more for jogging backs or fast walking backs. Probably corner the market

 

[IrishLion]

It's not Alford, its ND. Alford went after the biggest fish, and almost always had trouble reeling them in because Ohio State, Alabama, Florida, etc.

Denson is like Alford part II. All the recruits love him. He becomes like a big brother to them. Whether that means they sign or not is a different question.

denson is one of the reasons we even get in with these kids...we don't put rb in the league and rb want that pedigree....jonas gray(basically is known for his monday night game and then being late and getting cut), cierre wood(couldn't make it), cj prosise(always hurt), theo riddick(3rd down back) folston, cam mcdaniel....these aren't ringing endorsements when you look at the other top teams getting the backs

I think we DO miss Tony Alford too, though.

Our best RB class since he left was when we signed CJ Holmes, who was a 0.90 composite guy on 247.

Alford's last class, the '15 class, featured Dex (0.95) and Josh Adams (0.89). There's been a dropoff in signed talent since then, based on ratings.

 

[Polish Leppy 22]

Driskell on twitter crying like a lil bitch and basically said Denson sucks at recruiting lol. Someone like him shouldn't be able to act like this on social media.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Was the No. 1 RB on my Big Board. Huge, huge, huge loss for Notre Dame at running back. Another big loss for ND at running back. <a href="https://t.co/EWMCulu1SD">https://t.co/EWMCulu1SD</a></p>— Bryan Driskell (@BGI_CoachD) <a href="https://twitter.com/BGI_CoachD/status/986778329872203777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He's got a point. OSU bringing in Chambers and Sampson in the same class is nuts.

 

[Domina Nostra]

I think we DO miss Tony Alford too, though.

Our best RB class since he left was when we signed CJ Holmes, who was a 0.90 composite guy on 247.

Alford's last class, the '15 class, featured Dex (0.95) and Josh Adams (0.89). There's been a dropoff in signed talent since then, based on ratings.

I just disagree. If the standard is consistently bringing in high-quality talent, Alford was no more effective.

Signing classes after Alford arrived:
[2010: Cameron Roberson- D (not Alford's fault, but we lost Gio Bernard in the transition)]

2011: Cam McDaniel- C
2012: Will Mahone- C
2013: Folston/Bryant (coming off an NC, Folston almost bolted, but couldn't. Bryant was not a fit, RIP) - A
2014: NADA- F
2015: Adams, Williams - A-

I have ZERO doubt that Denson could not have landed Josh. Josh was damaged goods and the ND offered meant a lot to him. No one had any idea he would be what he was. Williams was a good snag, but has certainly not been overly-productive.

Denson looks like a Continuation of the same inconsistent pattern.

2016: Jones, McIntosh - B+
2017: Holmes - B+
2018: Flemister, Smith - C+

 

[Luckylucci]

While this is a big blow, as it looks like the gamble with Mellusi is getting harder to justify. I don't really care about rankings, I care about productivity. Since Denson has been here, we've been pretty darn productive running the ball. Can we win with the type of players that Denson has been recruiting. I guess we'll see but I'd be shocked if we weren't.

Tony Jones Jr. when healthy has been said to be the most complete back on the team by the ND writers that have attended practices for the last two years. Deon McIntosh was quite productive in the snaps he got last year. Early returns on Jahmir Smith is while he's swimming learning the playbook, they really like his ability to run the ball.

And this is from the Denson's UND.com profile page. Some more relevant than others. The big takeaway is that since he's been here we've had some pretty good success running the ball. That can be attributed to a number of things, but I think he should get some credit for coaching.

•Third season as the Irish running backs coach in 2017
•Coached a Notre Dame running back group in 2016 that rushed for 10 TDs and 1,471 yards on 275 carries — good for a 5.35 yards per carry average
•Helped Josh Adams lead the Irish in rushing in 2016 with 933 yards on 158 carries and five TDs
•Adams is the fastest Notre Dame running back to reach 1,000 career rushing yards (16th career game) since Darius Walker accomplished the feat in his 14th Irish game in 2005
•Adams closed the ‘16 campaign with his eighth career 100-yard rushing game and a career-best 180 yards at rival USC
•Coached a Notre Dame running back group in 2015 that rushed for 18 TDs and 1,967 yards on 299 carries — good for a 6.58 yards per carry average
•Mentored C.J. Prosise in 2015 — who rushed for 1,032 yards (18th 1,000-yard rushing season in school history) in his first season at the position•Prosise eclipsed the 1,000-yard rushing barrier faster than any Irish running back in school history with the exception of All-American Reggie Brooks in 1992
•Prosise was drafted in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks
•Tutored Josh Adams — who rushed for 835 yards in 2015 — best in freshmen school history
•Adams ran for 168 yards at Stanford — topping the school’s 40-year-old single-game freshman record
•The Irish ran for a season-high 457 yards vs. UMass — the best rushing total by Notre Dame in 23 years
•Notre Dame registered 299 yards on the ground vs. Stanford — the most by an opponent in Cardinal head coach David Shaw’s five seasons (35 carries for an 8.5 per-carry average against nation’s No. 22 rush defense)
•The Irish averaged 207.6 rushing yards per game in 2015, including six games with 200+ yards (Texas, Virginia, Georgia Tech, UMass, USC and Stanford)

The bolded really speaks to me. Who's to say we can't keep finding guys like this and getting them to be productive. Recruited S, turned WR, turned RB and proceeded to go HAM.

 

[T Town Tommy]

How much does the departure of HH factor in to this? I bet recruits are hearing this from some on the trail.

 

[snoopdog]

Too early in the recruiting cycle to get wrapped up in who will sign at RB this year. Deep Breathes work wonder.

 

[PANDFAN]

will say that since he has been the running backs coach we don't fumble the football

 

[IrishLion]

I just disagree. If the standard is consistently bringing in high-quality talent, Alford was no more effective.

Signing classes after Alford arrived:
[2010: Cameron Roberson- D (not Alford's fault, but we lost Gio Bernard in the transition)]

2011: Cam McDaniel- C
2012: Will Mahone- C
2013: Folston/Bryant (coming off an NC, Folston almost bolted, but couldn't. Bryant was not a fit, RIP) - A
2014: NADA- F
2015: Adams, Williams - A-

I have ZERO doubt that Denson could not have landed Josh. Josh was damaged goods and the ND offered meant a lot to him. No one had any idea he would be what he was. Williams was a good snag, but has certainly not been overly-productive.

Denson looks like a Continuation of the same inconsistent pattern.

2016: Jones, McIntosh - B+
2017: Holmes - B+
2018: Flemister, Smith - C+

I just think the evidence thus far points to the fact that RB recruiting was a bit more productive under Alford than it has been under Denson. Alford was able to pull a couple of "A" grades in there despite having to recruit both RB's AND the state of Florida in general. I don't think Denson has that kind of weight on his shoulders, so his recruiting at RB needs to stand out.

Giving the combo of Jones/McIntosh a B+ is generous IMO, and probably the clearest evidence of where you and I differ in our beliefs. I'd call that a C+, since the pairing largely relies on Jones being an under-the-radar guy that surpasses his rankings, which hasn't really happened yet like it did with Adams.

Alford had two clear "A" grades with the Folston/Bryant and Williams/Adams classes. There were some lulls, but that's expected during a coaching change and when you're following good classes. Denson hasn't been close to that level in three (going on four) tries IMO.

I DO want to make it clear that I don't think the sky is falling. Even if they aren't the premier level of recruit that some expect, guys like Jones and Smith should thrive in Long's offense. They create yards with consistency.

It would just be nice if we could add some top-flight talent back into the mix, especially coming off of a historic year rushing the ball.

 

[snoopdog]

I just think the evidence thus far points to the fact that RB recruiting was a bit more productive under Alford than it has been under Denson. Alford was able to pull a couple of "A" grades in there despite having to recruit both RB's AND the state of Florida in general. I don't think Denson has that kind of weight on his shoulders, so his recruiting at RB needs to stand out.

Giving the combo of Jones/McIntosh a B+ is generous IMO, and probably the clearest evidence of where you and I differ in our beliefs. I'd call that a C+, since the pairing largely relies on Jones being an under-the-radar guy that surpasses his rankings, which hasn't really happened yet like it did with Adams.

Alford had two clear "A" grades with the Folston/Bryant and Williams/Adams classes. There were some lulls, but that's expected during a coaching change and when you're following good classes. Denson hasn't been close to that level in three (going on four) tries IMO.

I DO want to make it clear that I don't think the sky is falling. Even if they aren't the premier level of recruit that some expect, guys like Jones and Smith should thrive in Long's offense. They create yards with consistency.

It would just be nice if we could add some top-flight talent back into the mix, especially coming off of a historic year rushing the ball.

Adams was NOT an A when recruited. He became an A, with the Help of Denson.

C Bo could be an A+....so could Smith and Jones.....reacting this way over losing Mellusi is understandable, but everything will work out.

 

[IrishLion]

Adams was NOT an A when recruited. He became an A, with the Help of Denson.

C Bo could be an A+....so could Smith and Jones.....reacting this way over losing Mellusi is understandable, but everything will work out.

I'm assuming the arbitrary grades were based strictly on the level of recruits in the class.

Williams (0.95) + Adams (0.89) is an "A" because of depth, a high ceiling, AND a high floor

Tony Jones (0.89) + McIntosh (0.85) is a "C+" because there's no top-level ceiling, as well as a low floor

Also, as I said, I'm not reacting any type of way lol. This was a discussion on Alford vs Denson in terms of recruiting. I think ND would be fine with guys like TJJr and Jahmir Smith as the ceiling, as long as OL recruiting/development stays level.

It would just be nice to capitalize on a slim depth chart and a historic year rushing the ball with some big dogs. And there's still time.

 

[BobbyMac]

If I'm reading it correctly, Bill Kuerig is reporting ND's trying to hook up with Chambers now that UM is out.

Remember, he's JD Bertram's teammate at Blessed Trinity.

 

[Irish YJ]

If I'm reading it correctly, Bill Kuerig is reporting ND's trying to hook up with Chambers now that UM is out.

Remember, he's JD Bertram's teammate at Blessed Trinity.

trying to make sense of this... two Qs

do we really need another OLB/Rover type (that's what he is correct?)?

and

another PWO, or is someone else getting an academic scholly?

 

[BobbyMac]

trying to make sense of this... two Qs

do we really need another OLB/Rover type (that's what he is correct?)?

and

another PWO, or is someone else getting an academic scholly?

He wants to play RB. I had him as the #1 LB in this class early on.

As far as where the room comes from...??? No idea. There's gonna be fireworks when it comes to deciding next year's roster.

 

[Luckylucci]

Recruited as a RB.

Would definitely be a scholarship guy if this happened. No way he comes as a PWO.

As soon as the Urban news hit there was reported mutual interest from both parties. Apparently, Steele wanted to talk with Day before making any decisions. But there is some level of dialogue but not sure how serious at this juncture.

 

[Irish YJ]

thank you both

Recruited as a RB.

Would definitely be a scholarship guy if this happened. No way he comes as a PWO.

As soon as the Urban news hit there was reported mutual interest from both parties. Apparently, Steele wanted to talk with Day before making any decisions. But there is some level of dialogue but not sure how serious at this juncture.

Just looked him up on hudl. shows 4.5 40. that's pretty fast for a 6-2 guy. had it in my mind a lot earlier he was a LB. totally forgot about him.

He wants to play RB. I had him as the #1 LB in this class early on.

As far as where the room comes from...??? No idea. There's gonna be fireworks when it comes to deciding next year's roster.

fireworks indeed. i'm like WTF is going on..

i predicted earlier this year that the class would be bigger than the numbers thrown out. almost feel like we're going full SEC though which is more than I expected.

 

[Sea Turtle]

If I'm reading it correctly, Bill Kuerig is reporting ND's trying to hook up with Chambers now that UM is out.

Remember, he's JD Bertram's teammate at Blessed Trinity.

I got wind of this yesterday. I logged on here to see if anybody was talking about and no one was. Figured it must have just been a rumor.

 

[IrishFanJMercy]

ND could use two RB’s in this class

 

[stlnd01]

Old friend Tony Alford is his lead recruiter for OSU. Looks on 247 like he and Day are doing an in-home this week.

 

[ab2cmiller]

My trained eye says he’s 6 foot even, 180 pounds

 

[irishog77]

ND could use two RB’s in this class

Hot take alert!


Why?

Is it because of the low depth chart numbers next year of:

Jones
Armstrong
Davis
Flemister
Smith
Kyren Williams

And they all have multiple years of eligibility. 5 of the 6 have 3 or 4 years left going into next year.

ND doesn't need a 2nd RB in this class. If they can get a bona fide stud, then that's another matter. But they're better off spacing RB's out than signing 2 this cycle.

 

[IrishLax]

Hot take alert!


Why?

Is it because of the low depth chart numbers next year of:

Jones
Armstrong
Davis
Flemister
Smith
Kyren Williams

And they all have multiple years of eligibility. 5 of the 6 have 3 or 4 years left going into next year.

ND doesn't need a 2nd RB in this class. If they can get a bona fide stud, then that's another matter. But they're better off spacing RB's out than signing 2 this cycle.

I personally think we should take 2. Three of those guys I don't really think can play the position at a high level, which then leaves you with 3 bodies. Of those 3 bodies, one is too slow to by a 3 down impact player and the other is a current HS senior. So you've got one total guy on the roster that has shown the traits to be a complete back.

WR and RB are my two least favorite positions on our current roster. Even with how poor the OL has played this year, they at least have some good depth/talent on the way and should be able to put together a cohesive unit next year.

 

[irishog77]

I personally think we should take 2. Three of those guys I don't really think can play the position at a high level, which then leaves you with 3 bodies. Of those 3 bodies, one is too slow to by a 3 down impact player and the other is a current HS senior. So you've got one total guy on the roster that has shown the traits to be a complete back.

WR and RB are my two least favorite positions on our current roster. Even with how poor the OL has played this year, they at least have some good depth/talent on the way and should be able to put together a cohesive unit next year.

I'm not sold either. But I don't think the staff needs to take a warm body, because that will hamper them with overall numbers. In hindsight, maybe the staff should not have signed 2 last cycle. I think moving Armstrong and Davis was basically a must after the RB exodus last season, coupled with Dex's pending early-season suspension.

But barring a transfer (or two), I don't see how 2 RB's this cycle helps the team. Especially if it is just another average RB recruit. That seems to be the ceiling of the staff in their recruiting the last several cycles. As I said before, if they can bring a legit blue chip guy, then by all means do it (as well as at every other position). Maybe that will happen? I'm not holding my breath though.

 

[longliveautrydenson]

Bama just poached Michigan’s 5* star safety Dax Hill. If we can make room for Chambers, why not also kick the tires on Zach Charbonnet while the vultures are circling the MeatChickens.

 

[Irish YJ]

I'm not sold either. But I don't think the staff needs to take a warm body, because that will hamper them with overall numbers. In hindsight, maybe the staff should not have signed 2 last cycle. I think moving Armstrong and Davis was basically a must after the RB exodus last season, coupled with Dex's pending early-season suspension.

But barring a transfer (or two), I don't see how 2 RB's this cycle helps the team. Especially if it is just another average RB recruit. That seems to be the ceiling of the staff in their recruiting the last several cycles. As I said before, if they can bring a legit blue chip guy, then by all means do it (as well as at every other position). Maybe that will happen? I'm not holding my breath though.

He's not a warm body. 4.5 is faster than any RB we have not named Dex I believe.

 

[BobbyMac]

He's not a warm body. 4.5 is faster than any RB we have not named Dex I believe.

He's definitely not faster than Jafar.

 

[irishff1014]

Hell yes. We need another speed dude. And to add to the class from GA. Jones unfortunately hasn't really impressed me at all. He is ok but not much better then that.

 

[Irish YJ]

He's definitely not faster than Jafar.

Jafar was listed at 4.47 his senior year, but has put on like 15lbs in the last year.

Chambers is listed at 4.5 on hudl.

i know hudl is not always spot on, but it's only .03 dif if accurate.

Chamber's film looks pretty damn fast when I rewatched earlier today. I do really like him at LB too. I just watched Jafar's too. I don't see a lot of difference with these old eyes. Chambers looks more explosive to me. Maybe Jafar is more straight line.

 

[zelezo vlk]

I was wondering how long this would take to come to light.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

 

[Sherm Sticky]

I personally think we should take 2. Three of those guys I don't really think can play the position at a high level, which then leaves you with 3 bodies. Of those 3 bodies, one is too slow to by a 3 down impact player and the other is a current HS senior. So you've got one total guy on the roster that has shown the traits to be a complete back.



WR and RB are my two least favorite positions on our current roster. Even with how poor the OL has played this year, they at least have some good depth/talent on the way and should be able to put together a cohesive unit next year.

Which three don’t you think can play at a high level?


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