10. What jump do the Irish take in the Spring?
Through the first six practices this Spring, Notre Dame has clearly taken a jump in one main aspect. Simply knowing how to practice and the system is that one main aspect. This seems like an overstated aspect of football, however, it is extremely difficult to be a 'football player' when you are thinking more than just playing. The Irish will make a jump simply because they can be more productive in practice. For example, just think about your first semester in college versus your subsequent semesters. It's a lot easier when you know what you're doing!
9. Do Irish recruits buy into Notre Dame this Spring?
This is unclear, however, the Spring game will feature an impressive list of recruits including Keith Marshall, Maty Mauk, Bryce Treggs and Ronald Darby. If Notre Dame lands one of these recruits, it would be huge for the class that already features Tee Shepard and Taylor Decker.
8. How did the Irish improve in Off-Season workouts?
Two words. Kona Schwenke. This Irish defensive linemen added a ton of weight and looks more athletic than he did at a lower weight. Now, it would be unfair to call a system a success or failure based on one individual but several Irish player look like they have really taken advantage of Paul Longo's Off-Season workouts.
7. Are Freshman Aaron Lynch and Ishaq Williams ready to make an impact?
Yes. They are physically ready. According to Darius Fleming, they also are both doing an excellent job at picking up the defensive. Only time with tell whether or not these two make it on the field and in what role.
6. Who play next to Manti Te'o at the Will position?
This is really hard to figure out at this point but it does look like Carlo Calabrese. With the inability of the media to view the contact sections of practice, it is difficult to see who is standing out at this position.
5. Do Bennett Jackson and Lo Wood set up to fill the lack of depth at corner?
Yes. It has been a pleasant surprise to see that both of these players are able to make plays. Jackson's ability to pick up the position has been really surprising. These two players can give the Irish depth especially with the incoming freshman in the summer.
4. Can Louis Nix give quality depth at the Nose Guard position?
Nix will definitely be able to play. The more he works on giving quality reps to Notre Dame, the more the defense will benefit. Nix has talent. It will show. Another player, like Hafis Williams, will need to supplement his play.
3. Who steps up at the Dog position?
There is a battle currently between Prince Shembo and Danny Spond for this position. Steve Filer has also shown signs of life. The biggest answer is that someone will step up and fill the void. Who will be the winner? To be continued.
2. How does ND recover from Michael Floyd's suspension?
Mentally, the players have taken to hear Coach Kelly's "next man in" theory about football. They have decided they need to step up to fill this production void but it is unclear who will do this at this point. However, the vibe from Kelly about the chance of Floyd returning to the team is positive. Could Floyd return to Notre Dame this fall and for how long? Answers should be coming soon.
1. Who will be the QB?
Reading between the lines, it appears that Dayne Crist will resume his starting role. He has been taking most of the first team reps. No official announcement has been made but momentum seems to be moving in this way.
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