I watched most of the game yesterday. A few questions/observations:
—Obviously, Freeman did not have the team prepared. Other than the opening drive and Love’s amazing TD run, the whole team and coaches appeared to be going through the motions. They looked as if they’d just show up and would win on talent alone. The conservative play calling reflected that.
—What the hell was up with Cross and Mills? Notre Dame’s interior defensive line is purportedly one of the best in the country. They were blown up yesterday.
— I don’t think Denbrock has much faith in Leonard pushing the ball down field, and rightfully so. That said, if he’s that big of a liability, why continue to play him? Not being able to accurately and effectively throw it 10+ yards downfield is an integral part of the game and position. You’ve got to play the best players and the players that will win you the game…you owe it to the team, collectively. Angeli, Minchey, or Carr deserves some reps at this point.
—Leonard, on TV, appeared to be extremely rattled. He looked defeated. Oddly enough, against a much better opponent and in a hostile environment we saw the exact opposite last week. What’s up with that? It simply doesn’t make sense.
— Going forward, you’ve got to wonder where Leonard’s psyche is. He’s gotta have a short leash. That’s though spot for a QB to be in and is conceivably ineffective.
— This loss is solely on Freeman. The team was not prepared to play at all. There’s way too much talent (experienced, veteran talent at that) to play like that. I said it last night, but he has a lot of similarities to Coach O — and take that as you will. On the one hand, Coach O did assemble the best team of all time and win a NC. The next season, was one of the worst ever. He’s way too turbulent. They beat A&M, on the road, in week one, and then lose to lowly, inferior directional state, at home, in week two. It’s maddening and infuriating.
Sorry fellas. You’re behind the 8-ball, but I hope y’all win out.