si.com had opposing coaches give their scouting report on top twenty teams. The coaches quoted below were granted anonymity in exchange for their candor in assessing teams that could loom large on the upcoming season’s schedule. Here's what one coach said about ND.
NOTRE DAME
Senior Brandon Wimbush is one of the best running quarterbacks in the country, and it all starts with him. Defenses are going to have trouble containing him. They’ve got the big receiver [6'4" junior Chase Claypool] who’s a mismatch when he gets in the red zone. ... Overall there’s more consistency on the offense. The line was outstanding last year, and the guys they’ve got coming in are really good too. I’m impressed with their receivers. Defending them comes down to limiting the big play. Tackling in the open field, not allowing for big plays—those are things to focus on. ...
Safety Nick Coleman anchors the defense, and the unit as a whole can take a big step forward this year. Clark Lea [the defensive coordinator, who was promoted from LBs coach] is a great defensive mind. He’ll do a fine job. I think anytime you can have continuity, it helps the players. They don’t have to learn a new language. ... Special teams coordinator Brian Polian is one of the best. They’ve won games based on special teams alone, and this year they’ve got a great kicker in Justin Yoon too. ... They surprised people last year, and I don’t think it was a fluke. There’s a sneaky upside with this team.