What keeps me up at night?

Someone asked me about my concerns for the upcoming season.  On the surface there should not be a lot to worry about for a team that went undefeated during the regular season with the great returning starters they have.  However, my response was “everything” because I am critical of every team the Irish field each year.  For better or worse, here are some from the top of my list.

Stephon Tuitt’s weight.  At 6’6.5” 322 lbs., he is not obese.  I think the fans and the media may be blowing this out of proportion a bit.  I also think that Tuitt has responded appropriately by not making a big deal of it.  What everyone needs to remember is this is a young man who is still growing and his metabolism is that of a very active young man.  He’ll be fine.

Tommy Rees’s mobility (or lack thereof).   It’s not like Rees has never rushed for a touchdown, thrown on the run or eluded a tackler. It’s not his strength and greatest talent.  Tommy is a smart and experienced quarterback who can use his head as opposed to his feet to keep him out of trouble.  Don’t get me wrong, he will be hurried and sacked where other QB’s (namely Golson) would have used their athletic talents to not only get out of trouble but gain positive yardage.  With Rees offering a lower threat of running, defenses will be able to stay home and be true to their assignments and coverages when facing the Irish this fall.

A standout receiver.   T.J. Jones may not have the stat sheet of Michael Floyd or Tyler Eifert, but he has proven to be a solid receiver for the Irish.  This is an Irish team that may not have one super dominant receiver, but many competent receivers can contribute at any given time, and they already have the nickname of Rees’s Pieces.

Starter at Running Back.  Much like the receiver position, there is not one proven super back but many options with skill and potential.  George Atkinson III appears to be the favorite to start at this time.  Each back brings something different to the table with the style they offer.

Injuries.  Danny Spond showed us this week that anything can happen at any time to change the landscape of a team.  Not every injury is going to be season or career ending, but even the loss of a pivotal player for one big game could cost a team a shot at a National Title.

Please note what is Not on my list this year; who is going to start at quarterback.