*Notre Dame* - On Vacation

Discussion in 'The Mainboard' started by Thoros of Beer, Feb 3, 2016.

  1. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    I listened to what they said and there are parts that I understand why they are not quite as high on him, especially as it pertains to run blocking. He needs to gain a legit 30 lbs to his frame and he needs a bit more of the "nasty" on his film, but he is to me an ELITE pass blocker already and he's only going to get better as his body matures and he gets stronger. Assuming he gets stronger and continues to develop, his ceiling is higher than Ronnie Stanley (taller and longer) as a pass blocker and Stanley went #6 in the draft and has held up pretty well for the Ravens.

    Stanley was never the run blocker that McGlinchey was, but he was the better pass blocker and that's the most important thing in a LT. If Baker can get to Stanley level as a run blocker, he's going to go in the top 5 of the NFL draft when he comes out.
     
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  2. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    Tuesday recruiting notes from Sinclair

    After a week to remember which brought a pair of high-four-star commitments, Notre Dame staff is on the road working to carry the momentum forward.



    With a whirlwind of activity taking place, I’ve reviewed five recent happenings and developments.



    From future early enrollees to my thoughts on offensive line recruiting, here are five topics to consider.



    Early Enrollees
    [​IMG]
    Michael Mayer (Photo: Tom Loy — @TomLoy247, 247Sports)
    Among the ten current commits, the Irish could be adding a fourth early enrollee.


    In case you missed it on the weekend, I posted a thread related to Rylie Mills in that the newly committed defensive lineman will enroll early at Notre Dame. This brought the confirmed early entry freshman total to three in the 2020 class with Drew Pyne and Alexander Ehrensberger also on the list.



    This morning, tight end commit Michael Mayer confirmed that although it’s not set in stone, he’s taking a close look at enrolling early as well and believes there’s a good possibility he’ll make that happen.



    “I’ve been thinking about it and I think I’m going to (enroll early),” Mayer said.



    As we know, early enrolment is a significant advantage for both the athlete and the program, upping the odds of a true freshman contribution both inside and outside of special teams.



    Notre Dame standing strong with top cornerback
    [​IMG]
    (Photo: Patrick Yew, 247Sports)
    In talking with Clark Phillips III at length recently, my confidence in Notre Dame’s positioning with him has increased.



    By all accounts, it appears the Irish have sold the athletic and educational assets within Notre Dame very well to both Phillips III and his family (an important note). Phillips III has a clear idea of what being a student-athlete at Notre Dame means, and he loves what he’s hearing.



    I expect Notre Dame to be among his top two choices through to his decision time. There’s no doubt that I’m close to predicting him to the Irish but with his talent-level in the elite category and Ohio State (who didn’t sign a corner in 2019) in pursuit, I’m not ready to pull the trigger just yet.



    We’ll be keeping a close eye on Phillips III as he looks to book an official visit for either this summer or early in the fall.



    Top 75 Safety Talks Upcoming Notre Dame Official
    [​IMG]
    Chris Thompson Jr. (Photo: 247Sports)
    As we know, the Irish will host Chris Thompson Jr. – one of the top safeties in the country – on the weekend of June 21 – 23.



    The Duncanville, Texas junior is a phenomenal prospect, even if his name hasn’t exactly been in the forefront of the safety recruiting discussion so far this cycle.



    For some, his booking of an official visit to Notre Dame came as somewhat of a surprise. But for Thompson Jr., he’d been eyeing the Irish all along due to a solid effort from the coaching staff, starting at the top.



    “I chose Notre Dame for an (official visit) because of their interest, specifically from Brian Kelly,” Thompson Jr. said. “Also, the preparation they provide for defensive backs for the NFL is unique.



    “Coach (Brian) Polian and coach (Terry) Joseph have been recruiting me the most. They seem like pretty genuine guys and they make sure they aren’t making the process overwhelming for me.”



    Thompson Jr. mentioned that he’s discussed the Irish with early entry freshman Nana Osafo-Mensahwho he knows as they’re both from the Fort Worth area.



    Along with several additional defensive backs visiting that June weekend – Kristian Story, Jerrin Thompson, Lovie Jenkins – the Irish have a great opportunity to make moves at a crucial area of the 2020 class.



    It’s worth noting that Thompson Jr. plans to make a decision before his senior season.



    New safety offer creating buzz
    [​IMG]
    (Photo: Brian Perroni, 247Sports)
    When Jerrin Thompson announced his offer from the Irish, I quickly contacted a trusted source in Texas for some insight on the hammer-dropping safety who rates in the Top 150 per 247Sports (a ranking I agree with more so than his No. 228 overall listing per 247Sports Composite).



    What I learned is that Arkansas and LSU have appeared to be the frontrunners for his pledge. And according to the source, as an athlete out of East Texas, somewhat of a rural setting, Notre Dame’s recruitment of Thompson felt bleak at first glance; in his opinion, athletes from that setting rarely go to college far from home.



    However, 247Sports analyst Gabe Brooks let us know shortly after the offer that Thompson had already booked an official visit. And on Tuesday night, the Top 150 prospect included Notre Dame in his Top 5 that included Arkansas, LSU, Oklahoma State, and TCU.



    It’s not possible to predict how his trip to South Bend on the weekend of June 21 – 23 will shake out. But the Irish have a popular young coach at his position with experience in recruiting quality prospects out of Texas.



    I’m interested to see which direction this recruitment is headed as Thompson became one of my personal favorites on the board instantly following his offer.



    Ideal O-line Class
    [​IMG]
    Michael Carmody (Photo: Tom Loy — @TomLoy247, 247Sports)
    If I’m giving my opinion on what Notre Dame’s ideal offensive line class would look like as the options are situated today, the result would be simple.



    If Notre Dame could finish its class with Michael Carmody and Reece Atteberry, I think Jeff Quinncan stand tall as victorious on the recruiting trail once again.



    First, I feel the Irish landed one of the very best left tackle prospects in the country in Tosh Baker (top-five in my opinion). On the other hand, I like Carmody’s talent for the right tackle position. He’s big, physical, and aggressive with enough athleticism to efficiently attack the second level.



    Given Notre Dame’s need at the position, signing what I would believe to be a left tackle – right tackle combination makes perfect sense to me.



    14COMMENTS
    With limited options with interior linemen, Atteberry’s skill set is fitting for what Notre Dame needs. Although there are two quality young centers with four years of eligibility each in Jarrett Patterson and Zeke Correll, Atteberry’s experience in the middle would fill out that spot for years to come.



    When you also factor in his experience at the tackle position, you have an athlete with true position flexibility from left to right. Given the amount of youth and uncertainty that surrounds it, Atteberry’s multi-purpose nature is fitting for the Irish.
     
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  3. IHHH

    IHHH Well-Known Member
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishCleveland BrownsMontreal Canadiens

    Christ was a guard right?

    Would’ve been great to get them both
     
  4. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    he would have been the RT in this class opposite Baker and that would have been perfect. Christ thought he could be a LT, I believe that was a factor in his decision as well so I can't blame him for that
     
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  5. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    Coach D's OL big board

    ROSTER OVERVIEW
    Notre Dame enters the 2019 season with 14 scholarship offensive linemen, and all but one has eligibility beyond the 2020 season. That puts the Irish staff in a unique position where it does not have to focus as much on quantity as it does quality.

    Four starters from the end of the 2018 season returns, and all have at least two seasons of eligibility remaining. Notre Dame is also coming off a recruiting cycle in 2019 in which it landed one of the nation's best offensive line hauls. Notre Dame signed four blockers in that class, which included Rivals100 tackle

    Quinn Carroll
    , a pair of Rivals250 blockers in
    Zeke Correll
    and
    John Olmstead
    , and high upside four-star
    Andrew Kristofic
    .


    Notre Dame has 10 players with eligibility remaining heading into the 2021 seasons.

    NEED/TARGET NUMBER
    That works well for Notre Dame and line coach Jeff Quinn, considering the 2020 offensive line class doesn't appear to be as deep as a season ago, or as deep as the 2021 class. Notre Dame narrowed down on its top target very early in the process, and it paid off when Phoenix (Ariz.) Pinnacle standout

    Tosh Baker
    committed to the Irish on May 8th.


    The board has changed a bit over the last month, but there are still players on the board that could allow Notre Dame to finish with a strong line class, regardless of the final numbers.

    From a pure need standpoint, landing at least two starting caliber blockers is ideal for Notre Dame. Getting up to three or certainly possible, assuming the fit is right from a position standpoint and an upside standpoint. If Notre Dame does take three blockers it would be ideal if two of those players have the ability to play tackle.

    OFFENSIVE LINE BIG BOARD
    1. TOSH BAKER, OT

    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
    51
    NATIONAL
    2
    STATE
    0" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: 10px; width: 7px; background: url("https://cdn.rivals.com/production/a...bfb264f545034d3f8a342e9632778ca65a3af8278.svg") left center no-repeat; margin-bottom: 3px;"> 9
    POSITION
    TOSH
    BAKER


    RANK
    6.0
    6'8" | 275 LBS | OT
    PINNACLE
    PHOENIX, AZ
    CLASS OF 2020
    [​IMG]
    VERBAL COMMIT
    5/8/2019
    NOTRE DAME
    BGI Grade: 4.0 (Top 100 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 5.0

    Overview: Baker is an extremely gifted blocker with an elite frame (6-8, 285) and excellent size potential. If he is willing to put in the work, Baker could easily get to over 310 pounds, and if he puts on the weight the right way he could add it while getting quicker and more explosive. Baker knows length is a major asset for him and he uses it to dominate as a pass blocker at the prep level.

    Length isn’t the only reason that Baker dominates as a pass blocker, he is also a top-notch athlete for his size. You can see it on the basketball court even more than on the football field, which is mainly due to technique. The more Quinn gets his footwork, pad level and technique down pat the more Baker’s game will explode because his athleticism will play up even more.

    Baker needs to add more weight room strength, especially with his lower body. He’s not a mauler, getting by on athleticism and length in the run game in a manner that is similar to what we saw from Ronnie Stanley. Where he thrives in the run game is when asked to do athletic things like trapping, pulling and working to the second level.

    Notre Dame Fit: Quinn and offensive line coach Chip Long like length, and Baker has elite length. They like athleticism, and he’s top-notch in that regards. Notre Dame likes blockers that can dominate in the pass game and handle themselves in the run game, also traits where Baker shines. He’s the prototype left tackle prospect for the Notre Dame offense, which combines spread and pro-style philosophies.

    Junior Season Highlights

    2. ANDREW GENTRY, OT
    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
    40
    NATIONAL
    1
    STATE
    7
    POSITION
    ANDREW
    GENTRY


    RANK
    6.0
    6'8" | 305 LBS | OT
    COLUMBINE
    LITTLETON, CO
    CLASS OF 2020
    UNDECIDED
    BGI Grade: 4.0 (Top 100 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 5.0

    Overview: Gentry is a massive young man and is all about size and power. He’s a mauler that dominates in the run game. Gentry plays with good leverage and keeps his pads low, which helps him prevent smaller defenders from getting under his pads. He is still a work in progress, but with that kind of size and power, Gentry’s upside is enormous.

    Right now Gentry is at his best in the run game. He comes off the ball quickly, shows a good leg drive and when he keeps his base he’s a strong, strong finisher. Gentry has strong hands and a good punch. Despite being so long, Gentry does a good job for a young player at keeping his hands tight, and once he gets hands on it’s a loss for the defense.

    Gentry is a decent athlete that shows surprisingly loose hips for such a massive blocker. His lateral quickness isn’t where it needs to be right now, and his footwork in the pass game needs help. A concern is that he plans on taking a two-year mission, so we don’t know how his game will be impacted by taking two years off, but if he can come back the same player this is a young man with tremendous upside.

    Notre Dame Fit: Gentry has the athletic skills, size and power to thrive as a right tackle. His issues in pass protection have more to do with footwork and technique than a lack of athleticism. If for some reason he can’t adapt to pass pro in space, Gentry could move inside to guard where he would thrive as a dominant run blocker. But he’s a guy teams will want to give every opportunity to stick at tackle, and his upside there is elite.

    Junior Season Highlights

    3. REECE ATTEBERRY, C/G
    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]

    -

    NATIONAL
    3
    STATE
    45
    POSITION
    REECE
    ATTEBERRY


    RANK
    5.7
    6'5" | 275 LBS | OT
    EAGLECREST
    CENTENNIAL, CO
    CLASS OF 2020
    UNDECIDED
    BGI Grade: 3.5 (Top 350 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 4.0

    Overview: The first thing that stands out about Atteberry is his versatility. He started and thrived at right tackle as a sophomore, and he started and thrived as a center during his junior season. There is no doubt that Atteberry has the combination of skills to play the three interior spots, and the traits that could allow him to play on the edge.

    Atteberry has no top-level traits, and outside of versatility none of his grades come close to being elite, but ranks where he does because he also has no major weaknesses. He’s a solid all-around player that is technically sound. He plays with a good base, good pad level and he’s a good finisher in the run game. He lacks great power, but he’s a tough and gritty player that will mix it up.

    The Eaglecrest standout was even more effective in the run game as a tackle, where his foot quickness and balance stood out more than it did at center. Playing center allowed him to show his toughness and ability to finish. Atteberry catches a bit too much in the pass game and lacks ideal length, but as an interior player he has the foot quickness and technique to handle the pass game.

    Notre Dame Fit: For Notre Dame, with its desire to have longer and/or more athletic players on the outside, Atteberry fits best as an interior player. Guard is likely an early option if he is good enough to play early on, but the staff could also choose to move him to center. One thing is sure, Atteberry has the versatility this particular staff has always coveted.

    Junior Season Highlights

    4. MICHAEL CARMODY, T/G
    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]

    -

    NATIONAL
    2
    STATE
    35
    POSITION
    MICHAEL
    CARMODY


    RANK
    5.8
    6'6" | 280 LBS | OT
    MARS
    MARS, PA
    CLASS OF 2020
    UNDECIDED
    BGI Grade: 3.5 (Top 350 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 4.5

    Overview: Carmody is an intriguing player that currently is a long way away from the kind of player he could but, but his film also shows a prospect that with work could be a really impactful blocker at the next level. There is some risk when evaluating and possibly landing Carmody, but the upside is strong.

    The Mars standout has impressive size and he’s filled out his body quite a bit the last year. He’s now listed at 6-6 and 280 pounds, and he’s got room to reshape his body and continue adding weight and strength. Carmody is a physical and dominant blocker in the run game, especially when he can fire straight off the ball. Once he gets even more girth and weight room power that part of his game will get really good.

    Carmody explodes off the line on down blocks and drive blocks, but his lateral quickness is lacking at this point. His hips are on the stiff side, so he has to be really conscientious about making sure his pad level and base are good, otherwise he can lose blocks. Carmody needs to work on being quicker getting into his pass sets and getting more width when working on reach blocks.

    Notre Dame Fit: Right now, Carmody lacks the foot quickness and agility to play tackle in Notre Dame’s offense. When you see him on the basketball court those traits seem more apparent, so there’s a chance as he gets more used to the extra weight those traits could improve. His power, physicality and aggressiveness do fit in well at guard, and if he can improve his flexibility and agility he could eventually slide back outside.

    Junior Season Highlights

    5. ZAK ZINTER, OG
    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
    147
    NATIONAL
    3
    STATE
    16
    POSITION
    ZAK
    ZINTER


    RANK
    5.8
    6'6" | 300 LBS | OT
    BUCKINGHAM BROWNE & NICHOLS
    CAMBRIDGE, MA
    CLASS OF 2020
    UNDECIDED
    BGI Grade: 3.5 (Top 350 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 4.0

    Overview: Zinter is one of the more technically sound players I’ve seen in the 2020 class, which combines with his size (6-6, 300) to allow him to dominate at the prep level. The Massachusetts big man plays with a sound base and appropriate pad level that allows him to anchor well and get a push in the run game. His crisp footwork at the snap allows him to excel in the run game and pick up pass rushers.

    I wouldn’t call Zinter a powerful player, but he has a solid punch, good length and he’s a competitive player. The concern for me when it comes to projecting his game to college is that he lacks explosiveness through the hips and lower body, which is going to limit his ability to really explode into and drive defenders.

    Zinter’s grade is dragged down by that lack of explosiveness, lower body power and his lack of athleticism. His technique allows him to maximize the foot quickness he does possess, but overall Zinter is heavy footed, is slow on traps and pulls and is limited on the second level. This also might hurt him a bit handling speed at the next level.

    Notre Dame Fit: Zinter has the length and punch to play tackle, and his technique is what Notre Dame wants, but in the Irish offense he’s a pure inside player because he lacks the foot quickness to play on the edge and in space. Zinter’s footwork and punch would allow him to thrive in the zone game, but he doesn’t move as well laterally or on the next level as Notre Dame prefers.

    Junior Season Highlights

    6. JONAH MONHEIM, OG
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    [​IMG]

    -

    NATIONAL

    -

    STATE

    -

    POSITION
    JONAH
    MONHEIM


    RANK
    5.8
    6'4" | 280 LBS | OT
    MOORPARK
    MOORPARK, CA
    CLASS OF 2020
    UNDECIDED
    BGI Grade: 3.5 (Top 350 caliber player)
    Upside Grade: 4.0

    Overview: There is a lot to like about Monheim’s film. In fact, I would argue his film is as impressive as anyone on this list not named Tosh Baker or Andrew Gentry. This young man is talented and dominant as a prep player.

    But let’s get the big knock on him out of the way now, and talk about why he ranks last on this board. His game doesn’t translate as well because he’s very small. It will be easier to improve to the technical aspects of players above him than it would be to stretch Monheim out and get him to the size he needs to be.

    It’s the same issue that kept Trevor Ruhland from ever panning out at Notre Dame. To get to the size he needed to be to hold up at the Power 5 level, Ruhland lost some the quickness and agility that made him a great high school player, and he struggled to hold up.

    What I love about Monheim is his combination of quickness, toughness and proper footwork. He graded out second best on this board from an athleticism standpoint, behind only Baker. He’s quick off the ball, is excellent at reach blocks and he’s fast on pulls and traps. He is a competitive young man that some team will likely put at center and allow his game to grow and develop.

    Notre Dame Fit: Monheim lacks the punch and power of Zeke Correll, a 2019 Notre Dame signee that is similar in stature, and that is a big reason why Monheim doesn’t grade out as well. At Notre Dame he would probably be limited to center for that reason.

    Junior Season Highlights


    ----

    also, Christ would have been 2nd and Skoronski 4th if they hadn't committed elsewhere
     
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  6. npndne

    npndne Well-Known Member
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishDenver BroncosMinnesota VikingsColorado Avalance



    If Jafar can learn to start playing like a running back he could be really good.
     
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  7. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    Is there a place in south bend to rent bikes?
     
  8. Beeds07

    Beeds07 Bitch, it's Saturday
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSt. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Blues

    Haha I think the Lime Bikes should still be around, so yes, probably too many
     
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  9. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    hmmm. might be an option to get to the stadium from an airbnb futher away cuz the airbnbs close to the stadium all arent responding.

    actually announced 2 weeks ago that they will be removed
     
  10. Beeds07

    Beeds07 Bitch, it's Saturday
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSt. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Blues

    We'll get you taken care of. How far away might you be? Between all of us and ride-sharing, you'll be fine.
     
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  11. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    im still trying to get within walking distance. want to see that trumpet in the dome thing and I believe thats the evening before right? Just did my 5th different airbnb request and got BSed around by 1 and just not responded to by the other 3. So im just trying stuff. I think ill manage to get there. But thats super kind of yall. I will have a rental car but really want to be able to have a beer or 2 and i dont fancy navigating in a town I dont know at a time in the middle of the night with insanely busy traffic so i really hope I can get one of the airbnbs ive been targetting.

    Am i correct in assuming there will be plenty of grills that i can borrow a corner off for my wife. She is a celiac so food is always a bit of an issue for her so i hope to buy some salmon at Kroger/walmart/whatever you have nearby on the Friday and make her a bit of a salmon and veg in alu foil with a bit of white wine kinda thing so she can actually also enjoy the tailgating
     
  12. Druce

    Druce Fuck football.
    Donor
    North Carolina TarheelsNotre Dame Fighting IrishAtlanta BravesDetroit LionsBarcelonaSneakers

    You're coming for USC correct?
     
  13. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    yeah, literally got my airbnb confirmed 2 minutes ago
     
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  14. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    midweek musings

    Midweek thoughts about the Notre Dame football program, its recruiting efforts and college football:

    IDEAL CORNERBACK LINEUP FOR 2019
    Senior cornerback Troy Pride Jr. started 17 of the last 18 games at field cornerback, missing just the Pittsburgh game this past season with an injury. When he returned from that injury, Pride’s game took off, and for vast stretches of the final six games he was as good … and sometimes better … than All-American Julian Love.

    When Pride moved into the starting line up to the field side back in 2017 it coincided with Love’s move to the boundary. Love began the 2017 as the field cornerback, but he moved to the boundary against USC. Prior to that move, Love had nine passes defensed in seven games. After he moved to the boundary, Love posted 31 passes defensed in 19 games.

    The boundary cornerback gets more chances to make plays on the ball, and he’s often matched up against the best wide receiver on the opposing team. Notre Dame’s coaches also talked this spring about the desire to play more man coverage, especially in the boundary.

    Pride spent almost all of the spring to the field, but he played in the boundary during the Blue-Gold Game, and it would make a lot of sense for Notre Dame to keep that alignment during the fall.

    Pride has the length and speed to thrive in press coverage, and he showed the coverage skills last fall to thrive as a man defender. Teams could not beat Pride deep last fall, who gave up just one completion that traveled more than 20 yards down the field.

    All of those things scream “boundary corner.” Of course, Pride would need to be more physical in the run game in the boundary, but he has the tools to not only play the position, but to play it at a very, very high level.

    The Irish senior moving to the boundary would also be better for sophomore Houston Griffith. If you break down the Irish defense last season, Notre Dame kept Pride off the ball to a greater degree when playing the field. Griffith is at his best when he can play off the ball, keep things in front of him, make smart/fast decisions and then use his top-level tackling ability and reading skills to make plays on the ball.

    Notre Dame could use Pride to press into the boundary, play Griffith off the ball more to the field and take advantage of the speed/range of junior rover Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and the coverage skills of the other rover – Paul Moala – to protect against the quick perimeter throws the defense is susceptible to by playing off with its corner.

    All of that would allow Griffith to play a style of defense that better suits his strengths as a cornerback. The same is true of senior Donte Vaughn, should he return to good health/good psyche this season.

    It would also allow Notre Dame to be in a situation where it could rotate both Griffith and sophomore TaRiq Bracy – more of a pure cover player – at the position position and in a way that allows the staff to maximize what each does well.

    I would feel much better about the cornerback position next season if this was how Notre Dame lined up, and it could turn a position of concern (second corner) into a possible strength.

    TO TAKE A LINEBACKER, OR NOT TO TAKE A LINEBACKER
    There has been talk that Notre Dame might only take one linebacker in the 2020 class, and possibly pass on the position altogether. It’s a risky proposition for sure, especially with so much uncertainty at the position heading into the 2019 season.

    If you took a poll of the biggest question mark on the roster, odds are that linebacker would be the runaway leader. Notre Dame has just one returning starter at the position – fifth-year senior Asmar Bilal – and that one starter has never started a game at the position he’s expected to play next season.

    Another expected starter has never played a snap at Notre Dame and the expected starter at rover played one game of special teams last fall before going down with a season-ending injury. There were significant growing pains during the spring, and despite the obvious athleticism, length and athleticism at the position, there is almost nothing proven coming back at the position.

    That makes even thinking about not taking a linebacker a major head scratcher and should Notre Dame not take a linebacker it would make that a big-time risk. Notre Dame could end up being fine if its talented sophomore class pans out and should the high-ceiling players from the 2020 class develop faster than expected.

    It makes total sense from a pure numbers standpoint. Assuming everyone returns, Notre Dame will have eight scholarship inside linebackers on the 2020 roster, and all but one has at least two seasons of eligibility remaining. It would have three rovers on the roster, all with at least two seasons of eligibility left.

    But here are the questions that the staff must ask themselves if they decide to pass on a linebacker in 2020. One, what is there are injuries at the position? This is especially problematic when one considers that Drew White, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Jack Lamb and Jack Kiser have all have significant injuries at Notre Dame. If those continue the numbers get problematic.

    Two, what is certain players don’t pan out and aren’t as good as we hoped they’d be. The numbers are good right now, but guys not panning out isn’t much different than players going down with injury. The more that prove not capable of playing at a high level the greater the odds the position becomes problematic.

    Three, what is there are transfers or suspensions?

    You can’t look at your roster and just assume that everyone currently on it will still be there in three years, or that everyone will be as good as expected. It doesn’t matter what team we are talking about. Injuries are going to happen, some players aren’t going to pan out, some players are going to leave. Heck, some players are even better than expected and leave early for the NFL.

    All of those realities make not taking a linebacker in the 2020 class a major, major risk. Could it work out by allowing the staff to add an extra player at another position or by bringing back a fifth-year player that otherwise couldn’t due to scholarship limits? Sure. But those are some risky odds.

    WHAT TO DO WITH LIKENESS, NAME, IMAGE PROFITS
    The NCAA announced this week that it is putting together a working group to discuss how it can modify its rules to allow college athletes to be compensated for use of their names, images and likenesses.

    This is going to be a very tricky situation, and one I’ve gone back and forth on for awhile. Anyone that knows me know that I am very, very much against the notion of paying players. I support amateurism and have zero interest in college sports becoming a minor league or any type of professional sport.

    I do, however, think the NCAA needs to change its rules in regards to how it uses players to promote the game without there being any benefit to them. I’ve talked in the past about how I would like jersey sales to be used to benefit athletes after their careers are over. There needs to be some compensation for players if their likeness or name is used to generate revenue beyond simply playing the game.

    If this is done properly it could be a very good thing for student-athletes. If it is done wrong it will create an even dirtier and shadier recruiting process in the major sports. My fear is that the NCAA is going to do it wrong – because it does most things wrong – and it will create a world in which it makes it easier and easier for cheating programs to cheat even easier, which will hurt Notre Dame.

    If this is something used to benefit ALL student-athletes and not just the “premier” players then I will be all for some sort of system where student-athletes benefit from the school, the NCAA and other organizations use their likeness or names to promote the game.

    STAT OF THE WEEK
    Notre Dame rushed for 182.6 yards per game in 2018, which was the fourth best single-season mark during head coach Brian Kelly's tenure. It was also the fourth time Notre Dame went for at least 180 yards in a season.

    The raw numbers were good, but the deeper numbers weren't as good. Notre Dame averaged just 4.43 yards per rush, which was the seventh best single season mark in Kelly's nine years. The running backs averaged 5.46 yards per rush, which was the fifth-best mark of the Kelly era.

    If you want to track how effective the ground game is next season keep an eye on these numbers. Notre Dame's two best single-season marks as a team were 2017 (6.25 YPC) and 2015 (5.63 YPC). Getting over 5.0 YPC and close to the 2015 numbers would be ideal. For the backs, the two best seasons were again 2017 (6.69 YPC) and 2015 (6.57 YPC).

    TWEET OF THE WEEK
    Notre Dame’s 12-0 regular season earned head coach Brian Kelly the honor of being named the Associated Press Coach of the Year, the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year and the Home Depot Coach of the Year. On Tuesday, Kelly was named the coach of the year for something that goes beyond what his football team does on the field.

    View image on Twitter
    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]
    Brian Kelly

    ✔@CoachBrianKelly



    I’m honored to be in Dallas with @TCUCoachP and the legendary coach Gene Stallings for the @stallingsaward dinner.

    I’m also humbled to accept on behalf of everyone at @KellyCares. This award fuels our mission of hope even further.


    480

    7:44 PM - May 14, 2019 · Dallas, TX

    28 people are talking about this

    Twitter Ads info and privacy


    The Stallings Award goes to a coach in recognition of his humanitarian work as well as his on the field work. The Kelly Cares Foundation is a driving force behind the work Kelly does to impact his community well beyond football. Kelly Cares has donated over $5 million to support causes in the United States and four other countries.

    FILM TO WATCH
    Notre Dame has yet to land a defensive back in the 2020 class, but the staff is working hard to find prospects it likes. One target that has emerged is Lufkin (Texas) four-star

    Jerrin Thompson
    .


    These highlights give a glimpse of why he has caught the attention of the Irish coaches.
     
  15. NilesIrish

    NilesIrish Not a master fisher but I know bait when I see it
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishChicago CubsChicago BullsChicago BearsChicago BlackhawksDemocrat

    You have my grill. Hell, We can likely adjust our menu and make it friendly. Post your Airbnb on the ND board, or in here if you are ok with that and I am certain we can find a solution for travel.
     
  16. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

  17. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

    FWIW Driskell hinted Xavier Watts is a silent commit
     
    chase538 and IHHH like this.
  18. nexus

    nexus TMB’s TSO
    Donor TMB OG
    Indiana HoosiersNotre Dame Fighting IrishChicago CubsPittsburgh PenguinsReal MadridTool

    This is good news?
     
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  19. DetroitIrish3

    DetroitIrish3 Well-Known Member
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishDetroit LionsDetroit Red WingsDetroit Pistons

    Do we have him that high on our board?
     
  20. beist

    beist Hyperbolist
    Donor

    A bunch of OU crystal balls went in for another RB today. This seems to be falling into place quite nicely.
     
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  21. Rise

    Rise Well-Known Member
    Donor

    Same level as Henning. Tied at 2 after Johnson I believe.
     
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  22. Rise

    Rise Well-Known Member
    Donor

    Nice articles already written for tyree’s commitment. Biggest rob pickup since Bryant.
     
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  23. Druce

    Druce Fuck football.
    Donor
    North Carolina TarheelsNotre Dame Fighting IrishAtlanta BravesDetroit LionsBarcelonaSneakers

    :doge:
     
  24. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

    He was suppose to visit Alabama this month, then ND next month, then decide

    He isn’t setting up an Alabama visit and just announcing instead. And Loy has hinted strongly he’s already a silent for a few weeks now. Should be good news
     
    a1ND likes this.
  25. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

    The coaching staff believes he’s a Top100 type player and very underrated
     
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  26. NilesIrish

    NilesIrish Not a master fisher but I know bait when I see it
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishChicago CubsChicago BullsChicago BearsChicago BlackhawksDemocrat

    Nd is ok to good again, and South Bend is throwing out a presidential candidate. What the fuck it going on?

    Tyree will be so good in this offense.
     
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  27. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    wait a second, what thread is this? I must have missed it
     
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  28. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    in 2020, Liam, Banks, Hainsey, and Kraemer will be SRs (or 5th yr) and Patterson will be in his second year starting at Center - that's who Tyree will be running behind. I could see a legit 1000yd season for him in 2020, he's going to have some loooong runs
     
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  29. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

    Last night’s “Lucky Charms”
     
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  30. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    thanks, i must have missed that

    Watts would be a huge get for the WR class...would still take Henning after him as well
     
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  31. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    also, that Roman Wilson kid that goes to Botohlo's school is very interesting...legit speed and size to match up with some good film...that kid is about to blow up after his showing at the Opening regionals in cali
     
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  32. Red Rover

    Red Rover Neck water faucet, mockingbirds mocking
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishPhoenix Suns

    Yep, Michigan, Tennessee, and Oregon have already jumped in with offers

    Hoping he comes to camp in a few weeks
     
  33. IHHH

    IHHH Well-Known Member
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishCleveland BrownsMontreal Canadiens

    As a freshman? Behind jafar and with one of the other guys emerging. That is a lot of yards.

    If Nd can get the same level of ol recruiting and coaching for a while he will definitely be even more than a 1000 yards rusher but still need to bring in great ol.
     
  34. a1ND

    a1ND Bold & Spicy
    Donor

    i'm not so sure Jafar will be on the team in 2020 (draft)...RBs just don't stay for very long and i don't blame them

    even if he stays though, Tony Jones will be gone and none of those other RBs are like Tyree
     
    chase538, IHHH and beist like this.
  35. Bert Handsome

    Bert Handsome I'm sorry, the card says Moops
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishMilwaukee Brewers altMilwaukee BucksGreen Bay PackersTiger Woods

    Basketball is back to the McLeod era level
     
  36. laxjoe

    laxjoe Well-Known Member
    Donor
    San Diego State AztecsSan Diego Padres

    :embarrassed:
     
  37. beist

    beist Hyperbolist
    Donor

    I can't wait to bitch about Tyree not getting on the field because he can't pass block.
     
  38. NDfanPSUgrad

    NDfanPSUgrad Well-Known Member
    Penn State Nittany LionsNotre Dame Fighting Irish

    Especially when he’s at Oklahoma and part of #5wide
     
    40wwttamgib and theregionsitter like this.
  39. beist

    beist Hyperbolist
    Donor

    good point.
     
  40. IHHH

    IHHH Well-Known Member
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishCleveland BrownsMontreal Canadiens

    As much as we all hate this shit, it’s still very legit to keep a guy off if he can’t fucking block just a little when he is asked to. I love dex as much as you guys (maybe not) but he was fucking awful sometimes, and he cost Nd that first drive against Clemson with a stupid mental mistake. You can’t have that as a senior. His upside was incredible and he was lazy for 2 years.
     
  41. NilesIrish

    NilesIrish Not a master fisher but I know bait when I see it
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishChicago CubsChicago BullsChicago BearsChicago BlackhawksDemocrat

    We don’t have a kid with one leg. We might suck but McLeod era is a stretch.
     
  42. Bert Handsome

    Bert Handsome I'm sorry, the card says Moops
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishMilwaukee Brewers altMilwaukee BucksGreen Bay PackersTiger Woods

    One more leg than the unused scholarships
     
    NilesIrish likes this.
  43. Beeds07

    Beeds07 Bitch, it's Saturday
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSt. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Blues

    Jaylon appears to be graduating this weekend. Such a great story. Sucks he's a Cowboy though.
     
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  44. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    Well fix those things closer to the big day but you guys are too kind
     
  45. laxjoe

    laxjoe Well-Known Member
    Donor
    San Diego State AztecsSan Diego Padres

     
    40wwttamgib, a1ND, repoocs and 4 others like this.
  46. NilesIrish

    NilesIrish Not a master fisher but I know bait when I see it
    Donor TMB OG
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishChicago CubsChicago BullsChicago BearsChicago BlackhawksDemocrat

    I think I can safely say it. Jaylon is my favorite ND player. And that has become difficult to determine in recent years.
     
  47. Wicket

    Wicket Fan: ND, PSV, Pool FC, Cricket, Urquel, Dog Crew
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSan Francisco GiantsNew Orleans SaintsChicago Cubs

    for me its still big Q but its close
     
  48. beist

    beist Hyperbolist
    Donor

    Its like you guys don't even remember Golden Tate.
     
  49. Beeds07

    Beeds07 Bitch, it's Saturday
    Donor
    Notre Dame Fighting IrishSt. Louis CardinalsSt. Louis Blues

    You all get like for the text string
     
  50. Druce

    Druce Fuck football.
    Donor
    North Carolina TarheelsNotre Dame Fighting IrishAtlanta BravesDetroit LionsBarcelonaSneakers

    In the vein of favorite ND players, here is my roster of favorites/best in recent memory. I suggest you all make one too:

    QB: Clausen
    RB1: Josh Adams
    RB2: Dexter
    WR1: Floyd
    WR2: Tate
    WR3: Shark
    TE: Rudolph
    LT: Stanley
    LG: Q
    C: N. Martin
    RG: Z. Martin
    RT: McGlinchey

    DE: Tuck, Tuitt
    DT: Nix, Tillery
    OLB: Smith, Tranquill
    MLB: Teo
    CB: Russell, Love, Bennett Jackson
    SS: Zbikowski
    FS: Smith

    K: Yoooooon
    P: Hunter Smith
    KR/PR: Sanders
    ST: Mike Anello
     
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