General team info

[Irish YJ]

I wouldn't consider "lack of beef" one of our four biggest weaknesses. Our DLM aren't big enough? I'd rather have guys who can move.

I think it's a lack of beef that can really move... I know we've had some guys that developed into nice players, but let's be honest. We haven't had a DT or DE ranked above .9500 since 2011 when we pulled in Lynch, Ishaq, and Tuit.

Bill Connelly is usually on the money, and those four 'ifs' are just about right.

The only one I'm not really worried about is WR. I'm pretty confident this will be out best group in years. The pure talent alone is up there, and on top of that... Reesus should bring a more dynamic game plan. Sure, unproven, but I haven't been this stoke about our passing game in years.

 

[IHateMarkMay]

A couple of things on 247s site. I'll post separate to not make it took long of a post:

10 CFB teams most ready to break through for a national title
https://247sports.com/LongFormArtic...-championship-drought--147742149/#147742149_5

"It’s kind of weird given Notre Dame’s status, but we don’t talk about the Irish enough. Brian Kelly hot seat talk dominated conversation a few years ago. In the time since, we’ve tended to focus on what the Irish aren’t doing – winning the big game – instead of Notre Dame’s consistency. Kelly has won 10-plus games for three straight seasons. He’s the first coach Notre Dame coach to do so since Lou Holtz in 1991-93. This era, where Notre Dame is no longer the it brand and academic standards make recruiting a more strenuous task, makes it much harder to win in South bend. Kelly’s still managed to thrive.

As for Notre Dame’s championship chances? We’ve seen the Irish come close twice last decade.

What needs to change is the caliber of recruit. It’s been two seasons since Notre Dame landed a top 10 class, and the Irish have only once done better than ninth during Kelly’s tenure (fifth in 2013).

Notre Dame’s schedule and brand will always give it an opportunity to reach the playoff with an undefeated regular season. But the Irish have to recruit better annually if they hope to bang with the best teams in the playoffs. Kelly has recently said as much. We’ve seen that talent gap shine brightly twice before – Alabama in 2012 and Clemson in 2018 – and it still needs to close before Notre Dame can return to the top of college football once again."

 

[IHateMarkMay]

Calling our shot: 20 predictions for the college football season
https://247sports.com/LongFormArtic...r-the-2020-college-football-season-147721196/

"Notre Dame is back

You can have Texas. I’ll take Notre Dame as my pick to contend for a national title in 2020.

Quarterback Ian Book is back after throwing 34 touchdowns against only six picks, and he’ll have his entire offensive line back to protect him this fall, too. The defense should once again be strong (particularly at linebacker) after holding teams to 17.9 points per game last season. The showdown with Clemson in November (in South Bend) might be the game of the year in college football. The Irish will need all the help they can get to knock off the Tigers, but if they do it they will be in the College Football Playoff.


Can they do it? Sure. This Irish team has a better shot at knocking off Clemson this season at home than Brian Kelly’s crew last season against Georgia on the road.

Potential spoilers on the schedule include Wisconsin in a game set for Lambeau Field on Oct. 3 and the season finale at USC. The Irish have a four-game warmup before facing its first ranked team of the year (the Badgers). Still, many will fight against the “Notre Dame is back” narrative until that Nov. 7 showdown with Clemson, which might just have its most talented roster in the Dabo Swinney era. The Irish can win it, too. Let’s face it: Kelly has the Irish playing pretty well with a 33-6 record the last three years and with a senior like Book at quarterback, this is the year the Irish catapult on the national scene and stay there."

 

[IrishLion]

The only one I'm not really worried about is WR. I'm pretty confident this will be out best group in years. The pure talent alone is up there, and on top of that... Reesus should bring a more dynamic game plan. Sure, unproven, but I haven't been this stoke about our passing game in years.

I think I agree with you, as long as Kevin Austin is as-advertised and as long as Lenzy can develop into more than just a two-trick pony.

I worry about it for two reasons, though:

1. Connelly wrote recently that one of the most accurate preseason predictors of how an offense will do is returning production at WR (gulp). Not QB or OL... but WR. The more receiving yards you return, the more likely it is you'll have success.

2. The ND beat isn't afraid to overhype guys, especially at WR. Sometimes they're on the money (Claypool), but sometimes they way oversell (not gonna single guys out, especially if they still have time to develop). They've been hyping Austin for a long time, and it isn't their fault he hasn't been available, buuuuuuuuuut a lot seems to be riding on a guy that hasn't played very much football.

 

[Irish YJ]

I think I agree with you, as long as Kevin Austin is as-advertised and as long as Lenzy can develop into more than just a two-trick pony.

I worry about it for two reasons, though:

1. Connelly wrote recently that one of the most accurate preseason predictors of how an offense will do is returning production at WR (gulp). Not QB or OL... but WR. The more receiving yards you return, the more likely it is you'll have success.

2. The ND beat isn't afraid to overhype guys, especially at WR. Sometimes they're on the money (Claypool), but sometimes they way oversell (not gonna single guys out, especially if they still have time to develop). They've been hyping Austin for a long time, and it isn't their fault he hasn't been available, buuuuuuuuuut a lot seems to be riding on a guy that hasn't played very much football.

I agree there's a lot of unproven stuff, but the talent, or maybe better to say "the promise" or "potential", is certainly there.

Austin and Johnson at X makes my little heart pitter patter... Keys at slot and Lenzy at Z is so yummy.... So much speed and athleticism in those 4..... I hope they move Mckinley from X, and let him play more of a big/bully slot role. To me, he just looks too slow and struggles to get separation outside. I think he could really be a mismatch running out of the slot on possession downs.

 

[IrishLion]

I agree there's a lot of unproven stuff, but the talent, or maybe better to say "the promise" or "potential", is certainly there.

Austin and Johnson at X makes my little heart pitter patter... Keys at slot and Lenzy at Z is so yummy.... So much speed and athleticism in those 4..... I hope they move Mckinley from X, and let him play more of a big/bully slot role. To me, he just looks too slow and struggles to get separation outside. I think he could really be a mismatch running out of the slot on possession downs.

It absolutely has the potential to be a video-game offense with those four guys. Two prototype outside receivers, a true burner, and a quick-twitch dude in Keys that should be an upgrade over Finke with some seasoning. A QB that can distribute and hit the layups after improvising should allow that athletes to make huge plays after the catch. McKinley as a veteran/outside blocking specialist that catches the occasional play-action shot over the deep middle would be great.

Now watch Tommy Rees go totally 'ND Nation' on us and line up with 3 TE's and smash the ball straight at the line every 1st and 2nd down with whoever our biggest RB is lol.

 

[Luckylucci]

I think Kevin Austin is that dude or the next dude for this offense and it'll be very apparent once things pick back up again. Would be already with Spring practice. I also think that Lenzy and Keys are better complimentary WR's than we've had to our traditional #1 in awhile. Then you throw Johnson is as the next alpha of the group and my confidence level is pretty high.

 

[Luckylucci]

This isn't very insightful as it's the biggest cliche in football these days, but I think this team goes as far as the QB can take it. I think if we see continued growth from "the 2nd half season" Ian, then it could be a really special year. If we see the more inconsistent Ian, we'll still have a good year and it'll be fun to watch but we'll top out at 10 regular season wins.

 

[BeauBenken]

I think if our veteran OL can make our inexperienced/not so star-studded RB room look good, then we will be okay. But if we struggle to run the ball we just won't win big games.


I already trust Ian to be a gamer even if he isn't always perfect, but I think he can continue to elevate his game this year and be something pretty special.

 

[Irish YJ]

It absolutely has the potential to be a video-game offense with those four guys. Two prototype outside receivers, a true burner, and a quick-twitch dude in Keys that should be an upgrade over Finke with some seasoning. A QB that can distribute and hit the layups after improvising should allow that athletes to make huge plays after the catch. McKinley as a veteran/outside blocking specialist that catches the occasional play-action shot over the deep middle would be great.

Now watch Tommy Rees go totally 'ND Nation' on us and line up with 3 TE's and smash the ball straight at the line every 1st and 2nd down with whoever our biggest RB is lol.

I think Reesus will bring a good mix, and ultimately will take what he can get. And while I don't think Book will run it as much as he did last year, he's still a weapon in that aspect if used correctly. I guess I'm pretty high on Tommy's OC potential too.

But yes, I can absolutely see some vid game stuff at times from the O. I think the passing game will actually open up the running game a bit. I'd like to see Jafar and Tyree used as satellite guys this year too. We really have the potential to do more than we've done in a long time on O...... if a RB will step up.

 

[Irish YJ]

I think Kevin Austin is that dude or the next dude for this offense and it'll be very apparent once things pick back up again. Would be already with Spring practice. I also think that Lenzy and Keys are better complimentary WR's than we've had to our traditional #1 in awhile. Then you throw Johnson is as the next alpha of the group and my confidence level is pretty high.

I really can't think of a better 1-4 at ND from a potential perspective. Key word potential.

 

[fightingirish26]

I really can't think of a better 1-4 at ND from a potential perspective. Key word potential.

The added receiving threat of Tremble is worth pointing out, as well. Plus, if we're talking about JJ, Michael Mayer might be even more likely to make a big impact on the passing game.

 

[Irish YJ]

The added receiving threat of Tremble is worth pointing out, as well. Plus, if we're talking about JJ, Michael Mayer might be even more likely to make a big impact on the passing game.

TE is a spot I'm not worried about at all. Now or historically. WR on the other hand... But yes, between WR, TE, and RBs that should be able to catch (be satellite guys) like Armstrong and Tyree, we should have crazy options for Book if Reesus wants to open things up.

 

[NDBoiler]

I was talking to a coworker OSU fan and he said they we starting voluntary workouts next week in the big 10. Is that the same for ND?

 

[BeauBenken]

I was talking to a coworker OSU fan and he said they we starting voluntary workouts next week in the big 10. Is that the same for ND?

I don't think so, but don't be surprised if some of these schools back off this now.


Oklahoma State had five guys test positive for the virus once they returned to campus and they told their freshmen guys not to report.

 

[Luckylucci]

From what ISD has posted recently there isn't a date set but some target dates. June 22nd is the date mentioned. I think the best approach is to have a specific date to get things moving forward and if that needs to be adjusted, so be it. Notable that Clemson has already said June 8th and ND's earliest plan is for June 22nd. And this all may end up being a moot point but this might be another situation where ND decides to handle things very differently than others and it could be impactful. 2-3 weeks of on campus training seems like a big deal to me.

 

[Sherm Sticky]

I agree there's a lot of unproven stuff, but the talent, or maybe better to say "the promise" or "potential", is certainly there.

Austin and Johnson at X makes my little heart pitter patter... Keys at slot and Lenzy at Z is so yummy.... So much speed and athleticism in those 4..... I hope they move Mckinley from X, and let him play more of a big/bully slot role. To me, he just looks too slow and struggles to get separation outside. I think he could really be a mismatch running out of the slot on possession downs.

I really like that idea of having McKinley play in the slot. Maybe he can be a slower Justin Jefferson.

From what ISD has posted recently there isn't a date set but some target dates. June 22nd is the date mentioned. I think the best approach is to have a specific date to get things moving forward and if that needs to be adjusted, so be it. Notable that Clemson has already said June 8th and ND's earliest plan is for June 22nd. And this all may end up being a moot point but this might be another situation where ND decides to handle things very differently than others and it could be impactful. 2-3 weeks of on campus training seems like a big deal to me.

I hear that. But, I would rather the players and the coaches be safe and healthy. Instead of other schools rushing back.

 

[Irish YJ]

I really like that idea of having McKinley play in the slot. Maybe he can be a slower Justin Jefferson.
.

Yep. I love having that big/bully option there. While I still think Keys needs the most snaps at slot, I'd absolutely love to see McK get some frequent action there. It would be like running an extra TE, or TE lite. His physicality could definitely wreak some havoc vs Nickel and Dime packages. It would also be a nice RZ option. We'll miss Claypool in that area, but we've got Mck, plenty of TEs, and a few other WRs that have the height. I'm guessing Skowronek will get time in the RZ too.

 

[Irish#1]

This isn't very insightful as it's the biggest cliche in football these days, but I think this team goes as far as the QB can take it. I think if we see continued growth from "the 2nd half season" Ian, then it could be a really special year. If we see the more inconsistent Ian, we'll still have a good year and it'll be fun to watch but we'll top out at 10 regular season wins.

I already trust Ian to be a gamer even if he isn't always perfect, but I think he can continue to elevate his game this year and be something pretty special.

I will be totally shocked if Book doesn't take another step forward. That final drive against VT was the beginning. His inconsistencies are behind him. Take it to the bank.

 

[Irish Joe]

I will be totally shocked if Book doesn't take another step forward. That final drive against VT was the beginning. His inconsistencies are behind him. Book it.

FIFY....only cliche allowed when speaking of Ian

 

[dublinirish]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OleMiss?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OleMiss</a> athletics has had its first two positive COVID tests.<br><br>READ: <a href="https://t.co/WT4PkJKgZS">https://t.co/WT4PkJKgZS</a></p>— Nick Suss (@nicksuss) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicksuss/status/1268283428321009664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

you'd expect ND will want to avoid players showing up to campus with Corona.

 

[Irish#1]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OleMiss?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OleMiss</a> athletics has had its first two positive COVID tests.<br><br>READ: <a href="https://t.co/WT4PkJKgZS">https://t.co/WT4PkJKgZS</a></p>— Nick Suss (@nicksuss) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicksuss/status/1268283428321009664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

you'd expect ND will want to avoid players showing up to campus with Corona.

They wil test everyone as they show up. I wonder if they have asked the players to get tested prior to arrival?

 

[Irish YJ]

ND has 4 players on PFF's top 50 players (projected) list for 2020.

Q Nelson - 4th
H Smith - 35th
Z Martin - 46th
R Stanley - 48th

 

[Bluto]

ND has 4 players on PFF's top 50 players (projected) list for 2020.

Q Nelson - 4th
H Smith - 35th
Z Martin - 46th
R Stanley - 48th

Harry Hiestand seems to have known what he was doing.

 

[Irish YJ]

Harry Hiestand seems to have known what he was doing.

Yep. I miss Harry.

 

[GrangerIrish24]

Yep. I miss Harry.

He’s my dads neighbor, which is only 20 minutes from campus. He’s currently jobless. Wouldn’t hurt to offer him an analyst spot.

 

[Irish YJ]

He’s my dads neighbor, which is only 20 minutes from campus. He’s currently jobless. Wouldn’t hurt to offer him an analyst spot.

Yup, or he could be a motivational instructor. I think it would be good for our OL to get some hurt feelings from Harry.

 

[dublinirish]

Yup, or he could be a motivational instructor. I think it would be good for our OL to get some hurt feelings from Harry.

Liam Eichenberg might get a recurrence of his PTSD

 

[Irish YJ]

Liam Eichenberg might get a recurrence of his PTSD

Maybe enough to help his draft stock at the end of the year.

 

[calvegas04]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Notre Dame football shared its return plan with select media outlets today. Highlights:<br><br>-Football players can return to campus June 8 to begin a 10-day quarantine.<br><br>-All players, staff will be tested before first entering the facility. Daily wellness checks to follow. 1/2</p>— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteSampson_/status/1268701893141954570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">-Players will live at the Morris Inn during summer. <br><br>-Phase 1 of training limited to groups of 10 of fewer. Phase 2 limited to 50 of fewer. Phase 3 will be unlimited.<br><br>-Players/staff should wear masks with social distancing cannot be achieved.<br><br>-Phase 1 begins June 22. <br><br>2/2</p>— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteSampson_/status/1268702107420557312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>