Brain Kelly revised the format for this year’s Blue and Gold Game (team spring practice scrimmage). Over the years coaches have changed up the scoring and the way the Irish would play. Although I am excited and looking forward to getting my Notre Dame Football fix, it’s important to remember what this game is, and perhaps more importantly, what it is not.
What it is: an opportunity to evaluate players, to showcase the program to fans, to pitch the program to recruits, to expose early enrollees and redshirt sophomores in a nationally-televised game scenario.
What it is not: a chance to get hurt or aggravate an injury, a game that will decide the starting quarterback (or any other position).
For casual and obsessed fans alike, the Annual Blue and Gold Game offers opportunity for cheering, jeering and insight to the fall and the 2012 season. Although you should enjoy the game, don’t take it too seriously. Keep things in perspective; if the offense is doing great should we be concerned about the defense, and if the defense is a stone wall should we be concerned about the offense? Here are some things to look for:
Consistency - whether running routes, making blocks and tackles, or reading keys, consistency may be the most important thing to watch for by player, position and team.
Technique - at this level we know these guys can play, but have the players paid attention to what their coaches have taught them? Mistakes (or lack of them); this includes turnovers and penalties.
Whatever you take away from this year’s Blue and Gold game, realize you will not see the boys in game action until Dublin, so get your fill.
