Corey Robinson: The
word potential is interchangeable with his name heading into South Bend. His height, rave reviews from his coaches and
his athletic DNA should have every Irish fan looking for him running routes
into the corner of the end zone.
Nick Martin: His
first time starting a football game at center, this will be his opportunity to form
his own legacy and set himself apart from his stud offensive lineman brother, Zack. Filling the shoes of three-year center
Braxton Cave is no easy task.
Ronnie Stanley: At
nearly 6’6” and 320 lbs., it should be at the very least interesting to see how
this young mountain of a man handles himself at right tackle.
Steve Elmer: A true
freshman that Head Coach Brian Kelly says is already playing at a high college
level and could play anywhere on the O-line should be a sight to see.
Amir Carlisle: Traditionally, a junior who has appeared in
eight games (as a freshman at USC) would not be considered a new comer to the college
football scene, but Amir has not had the traditional career. It’s time for him to put aside the injuries
and show everyone what he can do.
Jaylon Smith: When
was the last time a true freshman started at linebacker in a season
opener? The Great Manti? Nope. It was Korey Minor in 1995. Smith is slated to start on Saturday and we
will get to see what this five-star can do right off the bat.
Jarron Jones: The
Irish need solid depth at the defensive end position since the loss of
Springman and Hounshell. Measuring 6’5.5”
and 300 lbs. (give or take), he should have learned enough during his redshirt
freshman year to put that size to use.
Max Redfield: With
most people (including the Irish coaching staff) saying he may be too talented
to keep off the field this season as a freshman even though he does not
currently show up on the two-deep Notre Dame depth chart, I want to see how
good he really is.
Woody (aka Tommy Rees) may have plenty of game and starting
experience, but it is a little different this time around. For the first time in four years Rees is the
starting quarterback at the start of the season with no ifs, ands or buts…at
least until his first snap.
Honorable mentions:
Hunter Bivin, Troy Niklas, James Onwualu, Isaac Rochell, Jarrett Grace.
And T.J. Jones returning punts.
