Simple Observations - Rice

Here come the Irish

With week one against Rice in the books we defiantly saw some things worth noting.  One snowflake does not make a blizzard however the Irish are off to a good start and look like they are heading in the right direction.

Golson

Golson is good to go.  Everett looked pretty good for a guy who has not taken a snap in a game in 600 days.  He looked good in the pocket, he made his read, checked off as needed and moved with a purpose as opposed to just scrambling.  Let's pump the breaks on any Heisman talk but if he keep playing this good we can have that type of discussion in six weeks.

Greg Bryant looks like the real deal and with four years of eligibility after redshirting last season Notre Dame's running game looks solid (especially with Folston) for years to come.



Bryant on the return

The kick return game has risen like the Phoenix from the ashes.  After years of a dismal punt return game the Irish looked more than good with Brant (3 returns for 31 yards and a long of 18) and Riggs ( 2 for 49 yards with a long of 25) back there.  Amir Carlisle returned two kick off for 49 yards with a long of 36.

Will Fuller

Although Will Fuller had the lion's share of receptions with four (one for 75 yards and three more for a total of 10 yards and a touchdown the lead receiver is yet to be determined with seven players catching passes.

For the first game the team looked disciplined with only two penalties (both off sides) for a total of 10 yards.



The defensive line will be rotating bodies throughout the game.  Young players including Cage, Blankenship, Trumbetti, Rochell, and Matuska will work with Jones and Day to keep the D-line fresh.



Ziare

The defensive backfield (linebackers included) needs to do a better job communicating or they will get lit up by a good passing team.

Malik Ziare will be in Golson's rearview mirror.

Michigan will be a much tougher test.