Early Thoughts On The 2019 Notre Dame Offense

[IrishInOntario]

Assuming Aliz'e Mack isn't interested in being involved a Master's program, I expect the depth chart to look something like...

QB: Ian Book (SR)
2. Phil Jurkovec (SOPH)

RB: Jafar Armstrong (JR)
2. Tony Jones (SR)

WR: Miles Boykin (5th)
2. Joe Wilkins (SOPH)

WR: Chase Claypool (SR)
2. Kevin Austin (SOPH)

Slot: Chris Finke (5th)
2. Michael Young (JR)

TE(A): Brock Wright (JR)
2. George Takacs (SOPH)

TE(UA): Cole Kmet (JR)
2. Tommy Tremble (SOPH)

LT: Liam Eichenberg (SR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

LG: Aaron Banks (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

C: Robert Hainsey (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RG: Tommy Kraemer (SR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RT: Josh Lugg (JR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

1. The quarterback position looks to be in good shape heading into 2019. After starting the majority of the 2018 season, Ian Book should be as confident and efficient as ever given that he has virtually all of his top targets returning. He needs to continue to work on trusting his pocket and not getting happy feet and he has continual work to do as a downfield passer. If he can improve in those two areas he could very well be a Heisman candidate behind an offensive line that will be much more experienced in 2019 and will have much needed additional year in the weight room with Matt Balis. Behind Book will be Phil Jurkovec, after Brandon Wimbush transfers in the off season and spends his 5th year starting elsewhere. It will be exciting to see Jurkovec get an opportunity, as he is the future of the QB position, after Ian Book. Hopefully, what should be a high octane offense will put points on the board early in the season, allowing Jurkovec to getting some 2nd half playing time in games, so Kelly knows exactly what he has. Overall, QB should be a big strength in 2019.

2. Running back should be really solid in 2019. I don't expect it be spectacular, but I think Jafar Armstrong will be primed to takeover the starting role from a departing Dexter Williams, after a full year under his belt at a new position. Much like CJ Prosise in his first year starting, I'm expecting a 1000 yard season from Jafar if he stays healthy. Tony Jones will continue to be the steady compliment to Armstrong and should have a productive senior season where he will be called upon in key situations (especially short yardage). Jones undoubtedly has the trust of the staff. Behind those two, I think it gets interesting. Will Avery Davis be a year stronger, and more comfortable at running back and start to show serious progression that could one day lead him to a 2-deep role? It's possible. I'd love to see it. My expectation, however, is that Jahmir Smith takes a big jump in the off season weight program and winds up being a very reliable Tarean Folston type that demands 3rd team reps. I also think Kyren Williams is vastly underrated as a complete football player and he's going to be hungry to come in and take reps. I love the depth at running back in 2019, but I'm not particularly impressed with the overall talent level of the unit when compared to ND's top competition. I think the group will be solid and Denson will have a number of experienced options to go to. Let's hope it's enough

3. Wide receiver will be in the best shape it's been since Chris Brown and Will Fuller left. Boykin and Claypool will be seniors (Boykin a 5th year senior) and they'll have much more chemistry with Ian Book after a spring and summer of knowing who their starting quarterback is and having tons of reps with him. Both guys will be in their draft years and looking to put on a show for NFL scouts. I expect nothing from maximum effort and production from the two outside elder statesman. Similarly, Chris Finke will be a 5th year senior and will keep on, keepin' on in the slot. Balis needs to continue build him up in the weight room to improve his speed and tackle breaking ability and Finke needs to focus on catching passes over the middle. He has great hands, he just gets ahead of himself trying to make things happen. That trio of starters has an opportunity to be one of the better groups nationally with Book as their quarterback. We'll see if they collectively have the Alpha mindset they need to dominate. The good thing is that if one of them falters, or goes down injured, I think ND has a pair of sophmores that are going to demand playing time next year in Kevin Austin and Joe Wilkins. Both 6'2 freshmen will be a year older and experienced in the system, after getting their feet wet as freshmen. I think they both have awesome frames for Balis to work with in the off season, and both players are faster than the taller, stronger starters that are ahead of them. ND needs to do a better job stretching the field at times and I think you'll see both guys get opportunities to run over top of coverage in 2019. I also think Michael Young moves to the slot and backs up Chris Finke, preparing to take over his role full time in 2020 after Finke graduates. I expect Young to push Finke and, hopefully, get enough time to really keep him interested. The wide receiver group is going to be really competitive. I didn't even mention Javon Mckinley, Lawrence Keys, Braden Lenzy (who could make a big jump and become another deep threat) or Micah Jones, nor either of the freshmen. Overall, the wide receivers could be ND's most developed, best overall position group in 2019.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Continued...

4. Tight end will be another strong group for ND in 2019. With Aliz'e Mack not likely returning for a 5th year Cole Kmet will finally have his chance to be "the man". Everyone, it seems, has high expectations of Kmet, who is a wonderful athlete. I'm certainly among those people and I look forward to seeing his confidence grow heading into the season knowing he's the man. I think he runs decently (not quite as well as Mack) but I think he has more consistent hands and after another year in the weight room, he should be a really reliable blocker if he puts in the effort. His counterpart at the attached / fullback / move TE position will be Brock Wright, a fellow junior who already plays a lot, especially in the red zone and in short yardage packages. Wright does split a lot of time with Nick Weishar right now and it's imperative that he becomes capable and confident in his ability to handle the lion's share of the reps at that position in 2019. Backing up each of those respective tight ends will be a pair of new faces. Behind Wright will be George Takacs who is going to be a HUGE kid when he's done filling out. He has the makings of a really nice blocking tight end who doubles as a red zone threat. I'm looking forward to seeing him get his feet wet and to see if he can be most of what Nick Weishar is giving ND in 3 tight end sets as a 5th year, while Takacs is only a sophomore. It's a tough ask. Long has to do a good job with him this off season. The guy I'm really excited about is Tommy Tremble. This is a kid who ran a laser timed 4.6 in high school. He's only 6'3 and I don't think his ideal playing wait will ever be more than 240lbs, but he's athletic as hell and gives you the opportunity to do a number of things with him split out wide, in the slot and in the motion game. Certainly he won't get a lot of reps playing behind Cole Kmet, but Long would be smart to start integrating his skill set into the offense slowly. I think he has the chance to be big time down the road as a unique player of sorts. He has a similar game to Aliz'e Mack, but he's 2 inches short and undoubtedly faster.

5. That brings us to offensive line, the group that could go either way next year. I've made it pretty clear that I don't personally think the group is receiving great coaching this year from Jeff Quinn as it relates to technique. That's based on my film observation of the 7 games ND has played thus far. IMO, there is an obvious regression in technique from last year, which is usually indicative of an offensive line coach that is focused on the big picture of scheme, chemistry and position fit, rather than the intricacies of technique. That's not uncommon when you have young players replacing 1st round picks and a couple of injuries you're trying to cover up for at the same time. That said, I'm willing to wait until next year to really see what Jeff Quinn is made up of as a teacher of technique. Liam Eichenberg will be a senior and is improving every week as a left tackle. He needs his best year yet in the weight room with Matt Balis. He still looks a tad skinny at 6'6, 308lbs. I'd like to see him come back next year at about 315lbs, with more upper body development and a stronger punch. Beside him you'll have Aaron Banks at left guard. I personally don't think there is a ceiling for Banks at the college level. Most guys that size just don't have feet like he does. at 6'5.5, his biggest challenge is and will be staying disciplined with his weight and keeping himself at a strong, but fit, 315lbs-325lbs. He's the type of guy that could be 340lbs overnight if he's not careful. Keeping him a little bit leaner and stronger will help his athleticism a ton. I can't wait to see him develop as a pulling guard. In a perfect world next year, Notre Dame's starting center will be Robert Hainsey. If he wants to play in the NFL, that's the perfect spot for him. He's 6'4, 295lbs right now and he doesn't have the frame to be much bigger. I'd like to see him around 305lbs next year if he can carry it, but I'd settle for an even 300lbs if that's him maxed out. Hainsey is really smart, plays with excellent technique and would be a plus athlete in the pulling game as a center. I hope we see him make the move. I think the transition from Mustipher to him would be relatively seamless. At right guard I think you'll see a much different Tommy Kraemer next year. He's more hurt than Kelly's letting on right now and I honestly think he could be in better shape going into his senior year. Per Echowaker's thinking, I think he would be best somewhere in the 310-315lbs range. Any bigger than that an he starts to see his athleticism dip and he loses his mobility. Going into his draft year I expect him to make big time progress and he may even develop into a captain. That leaves right tackle, which I think will be Josh Lugg's to lose but I think Jarrett Patterson (who I think winds up as the third tackle) is going to give him a really lively battle for the starting role. I expect that to be one of the better battles throughout camp. With Patterson as the backup tackle I think Trevor Ruhland comes back for a 5th year and is the first guard or center off the bench, giving Brian Kelly a reliable, experienced insurance policy on the inside should one of his starters go down.

Overall I expect the offense to be improved next year, mostly because of Ian Book's continued development and a more experienced and healthier offensive line. The offense will return 7-8 starters and will be deep at almost every position. There is no reason why it can't be a top 20'ish offense nationally, who should challenge every opponent on their schedule.

 

[mrwigglesby21]

I concur.

Beautiful write-up. Much appreciated.

 

[Get Nasty]

Much less concerns on Offense, and more just questions of how the pieces will continue to develop and who will step up that we haven't seen get much PT.

I'd like to see a burner get some serious PT next year (lenzy or Keys) to stretch the D. All of our WRs are athletic enough to get deep but no team right now is saying we have to stop "So and So" over the top. Part of that issue, Ontario touched on is Book's ability to see and hit the deep pass. If he can hang in the pocket for a split second longer (especially when the pocket is clean) we have wrs open down the field all day.

I hope to see armstrong have a monster year next year and push a rare class of 1000 yards rushing and 500 yards receiving. It's a tall task and he'll probably need 20ish touches per game, but he seems to be someone that can do it.

Oline - Perfect world everyone develops as we hope and I agree 100% with the line you have listed. Not much to add that you haven't stated.

TEs - Kmet is that old school smash mouth but athletic TE that everyone loves. Will be fun to watch him and the rest of the TEs grow.

 

[IrishMike409]

This is awesome. Thanks IIO!

 

[Shakin' Down the Thunder]

Well put. A lot less questions on offense compared to the defense. Just wish ND another Dex or Adams waiting in the wings. One guy I'm real curious about is Flemeister. I'm not saying he's the next Adams, but was his HS film, reminds me of Adams as the tall leaning forward back who is strong and tough to bring down. I was bummed that he was removed from KO return duties.

 

[TDIrish27]

Boykin and Claypool could both leave-----they'll get drafted if they do IMO.

Another year would certainly enhance their chances of being taken higher but you never know.

Ruhland IMO will be the starting Center next year.

 

[Pennick4]

Boykin and Claypool could both leave-----they'll get drafted if they do IMO.

Another year would certainly enhance their chances of being taken higher but you never know.

Ruhland IMO will be the starting Center next year.

Doubt either of those wr's get drafted

 

[mistygreen]

Claypool will eventually make a NFL roster as a back up receiver and great special teams guy.

 

[jcswoopnh]

Continued...

4. Tight end will be another strong group for ND in 2019. With Aliz'e Mack not likely returning for a 5th year Cole Kmet will finally have his chance to be "the man". Everyone, it seems, has high expectations of Kmet, who is a wonderful athlete. I'm certainly among those people and I look forward to seeing his confidence grow heading into the season knowing he's the man. I think he runs decently (not quite as well as Mack) but I think he has more consistent hands and after another year in the weight room, he should be a really reliable blocker if he puts in the effort. His counterpart at the attached / fullback / move TE position will be Brock Wright, a fellow junior who already plays a lot, especially in the red zone and in short yardage packages. Wright does split a lot of time with Nick Weishar right now and it's imperative that he becomes capable and confident in his ability to handle the lion's share of the reps at that position in 2019. Backing up each of those respective tight ends will be a pair of new faces. Behind Wright will be George Takacs who is going to be a HUGE kid when he's done filling out. He has the makings of a really nice blocking tight end who doubles as a red zone threat. I'm looking forward to seeing him get his feet wet and to see if he can be most of what Nick Weishar is giving ND in 3 tight end sets as a 5th year, while Takacs is only a sophomore. It's a tough ask. Long has to do a good job with him this off season. The guy I'm really excited about is Tommy Tremble. This is a kid who ran a laser timed 4.6 in high school. He's only 6'3 and I don't think his ideal playing wait will ever be more than 240lbs, but he's athletic as hell and gives you the opportunity to do a number of things with him split out wide, in the slot and in the motion game. Certainly he won't get a lot of reps playing behind Cole Kmet, but Long would be smart to start integrating his skill set into the offense slowly. I think he has the chance to be big time down the road as a unique player of sorts. He has a similar game to Aliz'e Mack, but he's 2 inches short and undoubtedly faster.

5. That brings us to offensive line, the group that could go either way next year. I've made it pretty clear that I don't personally think the group is receiving great coaching this year from Jeff Quinn as it relates to technique. That's based on my film observation of the 7 games ND has played thus far. IMO, there is an obvious regression in technique from last year, which is usually indicative of an offensive line coach that is focused on the big picture of scheme, chemistry and position fit, rather than the intricacies of technique. That's not uncommon when you have young players replacing 1st round picks and a couple of injuries you're trying to cover up for at the same time. That said, I'm willing to wait until next year to really see what Jeff Quinn is made up of as a teacher of technique. Liam Eichenberg will be a senior and is improving every week as a left tackle. He needs his best year yet in the weight room with Matt Balis. He still looks a tad skinny at 6'6, 308lbs. I'd like to see him come back next year at about 315lbs, with more upper body development and a stronger punch. Beside him you'll have Aaron Banks at left guard. I personally don't think there is a ceiling for Banks at the college level. Most guys that size just don't have feet like he does. at 6'5.5, his biggest challenge is and will be staying disciplined with his weight and keeping himself at a strong, but fit, 315lbs-325lbs. He's the type of guy that could be 340lbs overnight if he's not careful. Keeping him a little bit leaner and stronger will help his athleticism a ton. I can't wait to see him develop as a pulling guard. In a perfect world next year, Notre Dame's starting center will be Robert Hainsey. If he wants to play in the NFL, that's the perfect spot for him. He's 6'4, 295lbs right now and he doesn't have the frame to be much bigger. I'd like to see him around 305lbs next year if he can carry it, but I'd settle for an even 300lbs if that's him maxed out. Hainsey is really smart, plays with excellent technique and would be a plus athlete in the pulling game as a center. I hope we see him make the move. I think the transition from Mustipher to him would be relatively seamless. At right guard I think you'll see a much different Tommy Kraemer next year. He's more hurt than Kelly's letting on right now and I honestly think he could be in better shape going into his senior year. Per Echowaker's thinking, I think he would be best somewhere in the 310-315lbs range. Any bigger than that an he starts to see his athleticism dip and he loses his mobility. Going into his draft year I expect him to make big time progress and he may even develop into a captain. That leaves right tackle, which I think will be Josh Lugg's to lose but I think Jarrett Patterson (who I think winds up as the third tackle) is going to give him a really lively battle for the starting role. I expect that to be one of the better battles throughout camp. With Patterson as the backup tackle I think Trevor Ruhland comes back for a 5th year and is the first guard or center off the bench, giving Brian Kelly a reliable, experienced insurance policy on the inside should one of his starters go down.

Overall I expect the offense to be improved next year, mostly because of Ian Book's continued development and a more experienced and healthier offensive line. The offense will return 7-8 starters and will be deep at almost every position. There is no reason why it can't be a top 20'ish offense nationally, who should challenge every opponent on their schedule.

Do you think the entire staff will return? This is first season that I've seen the coaches make half time adjustments that actually work

 

[IrishInOntario]

Do you think the entire staff will return? This is first season that I've seen the coaches make half time adjustments that actually work

Offensively, I can't see anyone that is going to get a promotion. I don't think Denson or Alexander are going to get OC positions elsewhere. Chip Long likely isn't grtting a head coaching job either. Jeff Quinn just took over the offensive line and he's a Brian Kelly guy anyways.

Defensively, there are two guys to watch, IMO. Mike Elston (ND's associate head coach) has had his name come up relative to MAC level head coaching hiringa. That would be a big loss for ND as Elston has done a great job with the DL and is alao the best recruiter on the staff. The other name to watch is Terry Joseph. He's done a great job in year 1 at Notre Dame, he can clearly recruit and he has a history of moving from place-to-place after a short stint. Maybe he gets offered an entire secondary to coach down in the SEC or ACC and it comes with a raise... Those are really the only two guys I could see leaving, under the right circumstances.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Boykin and Claypool could both leave-----they'll get drafted if they do IMO.

Another year would certainly enhance their chances of being taken higher but you never know.

Ruhland IMO will be the starting Center next year.

Ruhland is the odds on favourite to be ND's starting center next year, but, frankly, that gives ND its lowest upside realistically possible along the OL. Ideally one of Lugg or Patterson will emerge at RT, Kraemer will be healthy at RG and Hainsey can mive to center... I think that's his best position if he hopes to make the NFL.

 

[jcswoopnh]

Offensively, I can't see anyone that is going to get a promotion. I don't think Denson or Alexander are going to get OC positions elsewhere. Chip Long likely isn't grtting a head coaching job either. Jeff Quinn just took over the offensive line and he's a Brian Kelly guy anyways.

Defensively, there are two guys to watch, IMO. Mike Elston (ND's associate head coach) has had his name come up relative to MAC level head coaching hiringa. That would be a big loss for ND as Elston has done a great job with the DL and is alao the best recruiter on the staff. The other name to watch is Terry Joseph. He's done a great job in year 1 at Notre Dame, he can clearly recruit and he has a history of moving from place-to-place after a short stint. Maybe he gets offered an entire secondary to coach down in the SEC or ACC and it comes with a raise... Those are really the only two guys I could see leaving, under the right circumstances.

Those were 2 of the coaches I was wondering about lol. Do most teams have a safety coach and a cornerback coach? I don't think I have ever been more wrong about a coach than I was with coach Lyght. Amazing how he's improved in coaching and recruiting. Thank God VanGorder left!

 

[IowaIrish1]

Assuming Aliz'e Mack isn't interested in being involved a Master's program, I expect the depth chart to look something like...

QB: Ian Book (SR)
2. Phil Jurkovec (SOPH)

RB: Jafar Armstrong (JR)
2. Tony Jones (SR)

WR: Miles Boykin (5th)
2. Joe Wilkins (SOPH)

WR: Chase Claypool (SR)
2. Kevin Austin (SOPH)

Slot: Chris Finke (5th)
2. Michael Young (JR)

TE(A): Brock Wright (JR)
2. George Takacs (SOPH)

TE(UA): Cole Kmet (JR)
2. Tommy Tremble (SOPH)

LT: Liam Eichenberg (SR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

LG: Aaron Banks (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

C: Robert Hainsey (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RG: Tommy Kraemer (SR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RT: Josh Lugg (JR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

1. The quarterback position looks to be in good shape heading into 2019. After starting the majority of the 2018 season, Ian Book should be as confident and efficient as ever given that he has virtually all of his top targets returning. He needs to continue to work on trusting his pocket and not getting happy feet and he has continual work to do as a downfield passer. If he can improve in those two areas he could very well be a Heisman candidate behind an offensive line that will be much more experienced in 2019 and will have much needed additional year in the weight room with Matt Balis. Behind Book will be Phil Jurkovec, after Brandon Wimbush transfers in the off season and spends his 5th year starting elsewhere. It will be exciting to see Jurkovec get an opportunity, as he is the future of the QB position, after Ian Book. Hopefully, what should be a high octane offense will put points on the board early in the season, allowing Jurkovec to getting some 2nd half playing time in games, so Kelly knows exactly what he has. Overall, QB should be a big strength in 2019.

2. Running back should be really solid in 2019. I don't expect it be spectacular, but I think Jafar Armstrong will be primed to takeover the starting role from a departing Dexter Williams, after a full year under his belt at a new position. Much like CJ Prosise in his first year starting, I'm expecting a 1000 yard season from Jafar if he stays healthy. Tony Jones will continue to be the steady compliment to Armstrong and should have a productive senior season where he will be called upon in key situations (especially short yardage). Jones undoubtedly has the trust of the staff. Behind those two, I think it gets interesting. Will Avery Davis be a year stronger, and more comfortable at running back and start to show serious progression that could one day lead him to a 2-deep role? It's possible. I'd love to see it. My expectation, however, is that Jahmir Smith takes a big jump in the off season weight program and winds up being a very reliable Tarean Folston type that demands 3rd team reps. I also think Kyren Williams is vastly underrated as a complete football player and he's going to be hungry to come in and take reps. I love the depth at running back in 2019, but I'm not particularly impressed with the overall talent level of the unit when compared to ND's top competition. I think the group will be solid and Denson will have a number of experienced options to go to. Let's hope it's enough

3. Wide receiver will be in the best shape it's been since Chris Brown and Will Fuller left. Boykin and Claypool will be seniors (Boykin a 5th year senior) and they'll have much more chemistry with Ian Book after a spring and summer of knowing who their starting quarterback is and having tons of reps with him. Both guys will be in their draft years and looking to put on a show for NFL scouts. I expect nothing from maximum effort and production from the two outside elder statesman. Similarly, Chris Finke will be a 5th year senior and will keep on, keepin' on in the slot. Balis needs to continue build him up in the weight room to improve his speed and tackle breaking ability and Finke needs to focus on catching passes over the middle. He has great hands, he just gets ahead of himself trying to make things happen. That trio of starters has an opportunity to be one of the better groups nationally with Book as their quarterback. We'll see if they collectively have the Alpha mindset they need to dominate. The good thing is that if one of them falters, or goes down injured, I think ND has a pair of sophmores that are going to demand playing time next year in Kevin Austin and Joe Wilkins. Both 6'2 freshmen will be a year older and experienced in the system, after getting their feet wet as freshmen. I think they both have awesome frames for Balis to work with in the off season, and both players are faster than the taller, stronger starters that are ahead of them. ND needs to do a better job stretching the field at times and I think you'll see both guys get opportunities to run over top of coverage in 2019. I also think Michael Young moves to the slot and backs up Chris Finke, preparing to take over his role full time in 2020 after Finke graduates. I expect Young to push Finke and, hopefully, get enough time to really keep him interested. The wide receiver group is going to be really competitive. I didn't even mention Javon Mckinley, Lawrence Keys, Braden Lenzy (who could make a big jump and become another deep threat) or Micah Jones, nor either of the freshmen. Overall, the wide receivers could be ND's most developed, best overall position group in 2019.

Kyren will immediately be our best receiving back. Really like his film and his play on defense shows he likes contact. Thought I read he is going to early enroll along with 10 other players. Is this correct?

 

[FriedmanIP]

Continued...

4. Tight end will be another strong group for ND in 2019. With Aliz'e Mack not likely returning for a 5th year Cole Kmet will finally have his chance to be "the man". Everyone, it seems, has high expectations of Kmet, who is a wonderful athlete. I'm certainly among those people and I look forward to seeing his confidence grow heading into the season knowing he's the man. I think he runs decently (not quite as well as Mack) but I think he has more consistent hands and after another year in the weight room, he should be a really reliable blocker if he puts in the effort. His counterpart at the attached / fullback / move TE position will be Brock Wright, a fellow junior who already plays a lot, especially in the red zone and in short yardage packages. Wright does split a lot of time with Nick Weishar right now and it's imperative that he becomes capable and confident in his ability to handle the lion's share of the reps at that position in 2019. Backing up each of those respective tight ends will be a pair of new faces. Behind Wright will be George Takacs who is going to be a HUGE kid when he's done filling out. He has the makings of a really nice blocking tight end who doubles as a red zone threat. I'm looking forward to seeing him get his feet wet and to see if he can be most of what Nick Weishar is giving ND in 3 tight end sets as a 5th year, while Takacs is only a sophomore. It's a tough ask. Long has to do a good job with him this off season. The guy I'm really excited about is Tommy Tremble. This is a kid who ran a laser timed 4.6 in high school. He's only 6'3 and I don't think his ideal playing wait will ever be more than 240lbs, but he's athletic as hell and gives you the opportunity to do a number of things with him split out wide, in the slot and in the motion game. Certainly he won't get a lot of reps playing behind Cole Kmet, but Long would be smart to start integrating his skill set into the offense slowly. I think he has the chance to be big time down the road as a unique player of sorts. He has a similar game to Aliz'e Mack, but he's 2 inches short and undoubtedly faster.

5. That brings us to offensive line, the group that could go either way next year. I've made it pretty clear that I don't personally think the group is receiving great coaching this year from Jeff Quinn as it relates to technique. That's based on my film observation of the 7 games ND has played thus far. IMO, there is an obvious regression in technique from last year, which is usually indicative of an offensive line coach that is focused on the big picture of scheme, chemistry and position fit, rather than the intricacies of technique. That's not uncommon when you have young players replacing 1st round picks and a couple of injuries you're trying to cover up for at the same time. That said, I'm willing to wait until next year to really see what Jeff Quinn is made up of as a teacher of technique. Liam Eichenberg will be a senior and is improving every week as a left tackle. He needs his best year yet in the weight room with Matt Balis. He still looks a tad skinny at 6'6, 308lbs. I'd like to see him come back next year at about 315lbs, with more upper body development and a stronger punch. Beside him you'll have Aaron Banks at left guard. I personally don't think there is a ceiling for Banks at the college level. Most guys that size just don't have feet like he does. at 6'5.5, his biggest challenge is and will be staying disciplined with his weight and keeping himself at a strong, but fit, 315lbs-325lbs. He's the type of guy that could be 340lbs overnight if he's not careful. Keeping him a little bit leaner and stronger will help his athleticism a ton. I can't wait to see him develop as a pulling guard. In a perfect world next year, Notre Dame's starting center will be Robert Hainsey. If he wants to play in the NFL, that's the perfect spot for him. He's 6'4, 295lbs right now and he doesn't have the frame to be much bigger. I'd like to see him around 305lbs next year if he can carry it, but I'd settle for an even 300lbs if that's him maxed out. Hainsey is really smart, plays with excellent technique and would be a plus athlete in the pulling game as a center. I hope we see him make the move. I think the transition from Mustipher to him would be relatively seamless. At right guard I think you'll see a much different Tommy Kraemer next year. He's more hurt than Kelly's letting on right now and I honestly think he could be in better shape going into his senior year. Per Echowaker's thinking, I think he would be best somewhere in the 310-315lbs range. Any bigger than that an he starts to see his athleticism dip and he loses his mobility. Going into his draft year I expect him to make big time progress and he may even develop into a captain. That leaves right tackle, which I think will be Josh Lugg's to lose but I think Jarrett Patterson (who I think winds up as the third tackle) is going to give him a really lively battle for the starting role. I expect that to be one of the better battles throughout camp. With Patterson as the backup tackle I think Trevor Ruhland comes back for a 5th year and is the first guard or center off the bench, giving Brian Kelly a reliable, experienced insurance policy on the inside should one of his starters go down.

Overall I expect the offense to be improved next year, mostly because of Ian Book's continued development and a more experienced and healthier offensive line. The offense will return 7-8 starters and will be deep at almost every position. There is no reason why it can't be a top 20'ish offense nationally, who should challenge every opponent on their schedule.

Can’t tell if this is intentional of you or not, but all of Eichenberg, Kraemer, and Hainsey have eligibility through 2020.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Kyren will immediately be our best receiving back. Really like his film and his play on defense shows he likes contact. Thought I read he is going to early enroll along with 10 other players. Is this correct?

I don't think that's true at all

Jafar Armstrong was a 3 time All State Wide Receiver in high school...

175 receptions, 3700+ yards receiving, 45 TD receptions over three seasons.

With all due respect, Jafar Armstrong is as legit of as pass catcher as you'll find playing tailback.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Can’t tell if this is intentional of you or not, but all of Eichenberg, Kraemer, and Hainsey have eligibility through 2020.

Not sure I'm following what you're getting at...?

 

[FriedmanIP]

Not sure I'm following what you're getting at...?

You mentioned that is was their “senior year” and “contract year”

Made it sound like you may have thought that 2019 was their last year.

 

[NDIRISH53]

Assuming Aliz'e Mack isn't interested in being involved a Master's program, I expect the depth chart to look something like...

QB: Ian Book (SR)
2. Phil Jurkovec (SOPH)

RB: Jafar Armstrong (JR)
2. Tony Jones (SR)

WR: Miles Boykin (5th)
2. Joe Wilkins (SOPH)

WR: Chase Claypool (SR)
2. Kevin Austin (SOPH)

Slot: Chris Finke (5th)
2. Michael Young (JR)

TE(A): Brock Wright (JR)
2. George Takacs (SOPH)

TE(UA): Cole Kmet (JR)
2. Tommy Tremble (SOPH)

LT: Liam Eichenberg (SR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

LG: Aaron Banks (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

C: Robert Hainsey (JR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RG: Tommy Kraemer (SR)
2. Trevor Ruhland (5th)

RT: Josh Lugg (JR)
2. Jarrett Patterson (SOPH)

1. The quarterback position looks to be in good shape heading into 2019. After starting the majority of the 2018 season, Ian Book should be as confident and efficient as ever given that he has virtually all of his top targets returning. He needs to continue to work on trusting his pocket and not getting happy feet and he has continual work to do as a downfield passer. If he can improve in those two areas he could very well be a Heisman candidate behind an offensive line that will be much more experienced in 2019 and will have much needed additional year in the weight room with Matt Balis. Behind Book will be Phil Jurkovec, after Brandon Wimbush transfers in the off season and spends his 5th year starting elsewhere. It will be exciting to see Jurkovec get an opportunity, as he is the future of the QB position, after Ian Book. Hopefully, what should be a high octane offense will put points on the board early in the season, allowing Jurkovec to getting some 2nd half playing time in games, so Kelly knows exactly what he has. Overall, QB should be a big strength in 2019.

2. Running back should be really solid in 2019. I don't expect it be spectacular, but I think Jafar Armstrong will be primed to takeover the starting role from a departing Dexter Williams, after a full year under his belt at a new position. Much like CJ Prosise in his first year starting, I'm expecting a 1000 yard season from Jafar if he stays healthy. Tony Jones will continue to be the steady compliment to Armstrong and should have a productive senior season where he will be called upon in key situations (especially short yardage). Jones undoubtedly has the trust of the staff. Behind those two, I think it gets interesting. Will Avery Davis be a year stronger, and more comfortable at running back and start to show serious progression that could one day lead him to a 2-deep role? It's possible. I'd love to see it. My expectation, however, is that Jahmir Smith takes a big jump in the off season weight program and winds up being a very reliable Tarean Folston type that demands 3rd team reps. I also think Kyren Williams is vastly underrated as a complete football player and he's going to be hungry to come in and take reps. I love the depth at running back in 2019, but I'm not particularly impressed with the overall talent level of the unit when compared to ND's top competition. I think the group will be solid and Denson will have a number of experienced options to go to. Let's hope it's enough

3. Wide receiver will be in the best shape it's been since Chris Brown and Will Fuller left. Boykin and Claypool will be seniors (Boykin a 5th year senior) and they'll have much more chemistry with Ian Book after a spring and summer of knowing who their starting quarterback is and having tons of reps with him. Both guys will be in their draft years and looking to put on a show for NFL scouts. I expect nothing from maximum effort and production from the two outside elder statesman. Similarly, Chris Finke will be a 5th year senior and will keep on, keepin' on in the slot. Balis needs to continue build him up in the weight room to improve his speed and tackle breaking ability and Finke needs to focus on catching passes over the middle. He has great hands, he just gets ahead of himself trying to make things happen. That trio of starters has an opportunity to be one of the better groups nationally with Book as their quarterback. We'll see if they collectively have the Alpha mindset they need to dominate. The good thing is that if one of them falters, or goes down injured, I think ND has a pair of sophmores that are going to demand playing time next year in Kevin Austin and Joe Wilkins. Both 6'2 freshmen will be a year older and experienced in the system, after getting their feet wet as freshmen. I think they both have awesome frames for Balis to work with in the off season, and both players are faster than the taller, stronger starters that are ahead of them. ND needs to do a better job stretching the field at times and I think you'll see both guys get opportunities to run over top of coverage in 2019. I also think Michael Young moves to the slot and backs up Chris Finke, preparing to take over his role full time in 2020 after Finke graduates. I expect Young to push Finke and, hopefully, get enough time to really keep him interested. The wide receiver group is going to be really competitive. I didn't even mention Javon Mckinley, Lawrence Keys, Braden Lenzy (who could make a big jump and become another deep threat) or Micah Jones, nor either of the freshmen. Overall, the wide receivers could be ND's most developed, best overall position group in 2019.

Patterson was extremely underrated coming out of high school.

 

[IrishInOntario]

You mentioned that is was their “senior year” and “contract year”

Made it sound like you may have thought that 2019 was their last year.

Well it is Kraemer's and Eichenberg's senior year in 2019... If they choose to come back as 5th years they'll have graduated and will be enrolled in Masters programs in 2020. Hainsey will be a true senior in 2020. I wouldn't at all be surprised to see them come back for 5th years (it's pretty common for OL at ND), but it's not guaranteed they come back for 5th years. We have to see it play out.

 

[FriedmanIP]

Well it is Kraemer's and Eichenberg's senior year in 2019... If they choose to come back as 5th years they'll have graduated and will be enrolled in Masters programs in 2020. Hainsey will be a true senior in 2020. I wouldn't at all be surprised to see them come back for 5th years (it's pretty common for OL at ND), but it's not guaranteed they come back for 5th years. We have to see it play out.

Almost every OL comes back.

The only exception is Quenton Nelson, and he was a Top 5 Overall Pick type of guy.

I fully expect everyone of them back.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Almost every OL comes back.

The only exception is Quenton Nelson, and he was a Top 5 Overall Pick type of guy.

I fully expect everyone of them back.

I am too. I'm just not willing to count 5th years 1.5 years in advance. A year from now we'll be better able to say for certain.

 

[echowaker]

Continued...

4. Tight end will be another strong group for ND in 2019. With Aliz'e Mack not likely returning for a 5th year Cole Kmet will finally have his chance to be "the man". Everyone, it seems, has high expectations of Kmet, who is a wonderful athlete. I'm certainly among those people and I look forward to seeing his confidence grow heading into the season knowing he's the man. I think he runs decently (not quite as well as Mack) but I think he has more consistent hands and after another year in the weight room, he should be a really reliable blocker if he puts in the effort. His counterpart at the attached / fullback / move TE position will be Brock Wright, a fellow junior who already plays a lot, especially in the red zone and in short yardage packages. Wright does split a lot of time with Nick Weishar right now and it's imperative that he becomes capable and confident in his ability to handle the lion's share of the reps at that position in 2019. Backing up each of those respective tight ends will be a pair of new faces. Behind Wright will be George Takacs who is going to be a HUGE kid when he's done filling out. He has the makings of a really nice blocking tight end who doubles as a red zone threat. I'm looking forward to seeing him get his feet wet and to see if he can be most of what Nick Weishar is giving ND in 3 tight end sets as a 5th year, while Takacs is only a sophomore. It's a tough ask. Long has to do a good job with him this off season. The guy I'm really excited about is Tommy Tremble. This is a kid who ran a laser timed 4.6 in high school. He's only 6'3 and I don't think his ideal playing wait will ever be more than 240lbs, but he's athletic as hell and gives you the opportunity to do a number of things with him split out wide, in the slot and in the motion game. Certainly he won't get a lot of reps playing behind Cole Kmet, but Long would be smart to start integrating his skill set into the offense slowly. I think he has the chance to be big time down the road as a unique player of sorts. He has a similar game to Aliz'e Mack, but he's 2 inches short and undoubtedly faster.

5. That brings us to offensive line, the group that could go either way next year. I've made it pretty clear that I don't personally think the group is receiving great coaching this year from Jeff Quinn as it relates to technique. That's based on my film observation of the 7 games ND has played thus far. IMO, there is an obvious regression in technique from last year, which is usually indicative of an offensive line coach that is focused on the big picture of scheme, chemistry and position fit, rather than the intricacies of technique. That's not uncommon when you have young players replacing 1st round picks and a couple of injuries you're trying to cover up for at the same time. That said, I'm willing to wait until next year to really see what Jeff Quinn is made up of as a teacher of technique. Liam Eichenberg will be a senior and is improving every week as a left tackle. He needs his best year yet in the weight room with Matt Balis. He still looks a tad skinny at 6'6, 308lbs. I'd like to see him come back next year at about 315lbs, with more upper body development and a stronger punch. Beside him you'll have Aaron Banks at left guard. I personally don't think there is a ceiling for Banks at the college level. Most guys that size just don't have feet like he does. at 6'5.5, his biggest challenge is and will be staying disciplined with his weight and keeping himself at a strong, but fit, 315lbs-325lbs. He's the type of guy that could be 340lbs overnight if he's not careful. Keeping him a little bit leaner and stronger will help his athleticism a ton. I can't wait to see him develop as a pulling guard. In a perfect world next year, Notre Dame's starting center will be Robert Hainsey. If he wants to play in the NFL, that's the perfect spot for him. He's 6'4, 295lbs right now and he doesn't have the frame to be much bigger. I'd like to see him around 305lbs next year if he can carry it, but I'd settle for an even 300lbs if that's him maxed out. Hainsey is really smart, plays with excellent technique and would be a plus athlete in the pulling game as a center. I hope we see him make the move. I think the transition from Mustipher to him would be relatively seamless. At right guard I think you'll see a much different Tommy Kraemer next year. He's more hurt than Kelly's letting on right now and I honestly think he could be in better shape going into his senior year. Per Echowaker's thinking, I think he would be best somewhere in the 310-315lbs range. Any bigger than that an he starts to see his athleticism dip and he loses his mobility. Going into his draft year I expect him to make big time progress and he may even develop into a captain. That leaves right tackle, which I think will be Josh Lugg's to lose but I think Jarrett Patterson (who I think winds up as the third tackle) is going to give him a really lively battle for the starting role. I expect that to be one of the better battles throughout camp. With Patterson as the backup tackle I think Trevor Ruhland comes back for a 5th year and is the first guard or center off the bench, giving Brian Kelly a reliable, experienced insurance policy on the inside should one of his starters go down.

Overall I expect the offense to be improved next year, mostly because of Ian Book's continued development and a more experienced and healthier offensive line. The offense will return 7-8 starters and will be deep at almost every position. There is no reason why it can't be a top 20'ish offense nationally, who should challenge every opponent on their schedule.

I don't believe Finke gets enough love.

 

[IrishInOntario]

I don't believe Finke gets enough love.

He needs to stop dropping passes on key downs over the middle of the field, otherwise, he's basically Notre Dame's Hunter Renfrow.

 

[IowaIrish1]

I don't think that's true at all

Jafar Armstrong was a 3 time All State Wide Receiver in high school...

175 receptions, 3700+ yards receiving, 45 TD receptions over three seasons.

With all due respect, Jafar Armstrong is as legit of as pass catcher as you'll find playing tailback.

Yeah, that was a pretty big oversight on my part!

Really like Kyren and glad ND got him. Looks like he has a couple thousand receiving yards on 140 catches and 28 TDs last 3 years. Damn they use him a lot. 340 rushing attempts for 2700 yards over the last 3 years with 55tds. Plus he's playing on defense.

 

[IrishInOntario]

Yeah, that was a pretty big oversight on my part!

Really like Kyren and glad ND got him. Looks like he has a couple thousand receiving yards on 140 catches and 28 TDs last 3 years. Damn they use him a lot. 340 rushing attempts for 2700 yards over the last 3 years with 55tds. Plus he's playing on defense.

I love Kyren. The only thing I need to see at the next level to be a believer is whether or not he can run away from people. I have no questions other than that. People that lament the fact that he's only 5'9-5'10 are ignoring that dozens of good-to-great college backs who have been extremely successful at that size. Height (within reason) isn't a factor at running back.

 

[shabak]

Offensively, I can't see anyone that is going to get a promotion. I don't think Denson or Alexander are going to get OC positions elsewhere. Chip Long likely isn't grtting a head coaching job either. Jeff Quinn just took over the offensive line and he's a Brian Kelly guy anyways.

Defensively, there are two guys to watch, IMO. Mike Elston (ND's associate head coach) has had his name come up relative to MAC level head coaching hiringa. That would be a big loss for ND as Elston has done a great job with the DL and is alao the best recruiter on the staff. The other name to watch is Terry Joseph. He's done a great job in year 1 at Notre Dame, he can clearly recruit and he has a history of moving from place-to-place after a short stint. Maybe he gets offered an entire secondary to coach down in the SEC or ACC and it comes with a raise... Those are really the only two guys I could see leaving, under the right circumstances.

My thinking is when Notre Dame coaches go to the MAC it is a death knell

 

[iwish]

He needs to stop dropping passes on key downs over the middle of the field, otherwise, he's basically Notre Dame's Hunter Renfrow.

I must subconsciously not be aware of those. He seems to have been pretty clutch for the team this year.

 

[stu4don]

thanks IIO -- where do I send the check? Great analysis.

 

[Pennick4]

Offensively, I can't see anyone that is going to get a promotion. I don't think Denson or Alexander are going to get OC positions elsewhere. Chip Long likely isn't grtting a head coaching job either. Jeff Quinn just took over the offensive line and he's a Brian Kelly guy anyways.

Defensively, there are two guys to watch, IMO. Mike Elston (ND's associate head coach) has had his name come up relative to MAC level head coaching hiringa. That would be a big loss for ND as Elston has done a great job with the DL and is alao the best recruiter on the staff. The other name to watch is Terry Joseph. He's done a great job in year 1 at Notre Dame, he can clearly recruit and he has a history of moving from place-to-place after a short stint. Maybe he gets offered an entire secondary to coach down in the SEC or ACC and it comes with a raise... Those are really the only two guys I could see leaving, under the right circumstances.

Would be very surprised if Chip Long doesnt get a head coaching offer.