The Most Important... Freshmen

Traditionally college teams rely on the experience and proven game action of upper classmen.  Most freshmen get redshirted while serving on scout team.  This gives young players the opportunity to learn the game at eh college level while saving a year of eligibility.  This year for numerous reasons; graduations, potential team dismissals, schemes and injury Brian Kelly has made it clear that a lot of players will see the field during games this season.

This class had two early enrollees in wide receiver Justin Brent and defensive lineman Andrew Trumbetti.  Brent has the physical traits to have an impact early in his career and it will be tough to keep him off of the field this year however there is enough depth (maybe not experience) at the receiver position that Justin is not necessarily needed for the offense to be successful.

This class as most coning into South Bend is loaded with potential.  There are several freshmen who have the potential to play this year whether it be because of skill and or size, even if it is in mop up duty but are probably going to redshirt because there is more than enough talent ahead of them on the depth chart.  The following freshmen could see action but won't see action (or hopefully wont to save a year of eligibility)  this season include; Jimmy Byrne, Alex Bars, Sam Mustipher and Quenton Nelson.  It is no coincidence that these are all offensive linemen,  Kelly and Offensive Line Coach Harry  Hiestand have for the past several years have done a great job recruiting.

Just as the Irish have plenty of talent, experience and depth on the offensive line the opposite may be true for the defensive side f the ball.  Kelly and crew have talked about rotating players in and out since spring and that message has only amplified throughout camp this summer.  I expect the following players to see the field this fall and contribute at some level; Jhonny Williams, Daniel Cage, and Greer Martini.

With all of that being said the most important freshman will be Andrew Tumbetti and Nyles Morgan.  Kelly has already said that Turmbetti will be a starter.  That is a huge responsibility for any player especially for a true freshman.  Since he is a freshman many have not seen him in action.  If you have not seen his high school highlights check it out.  With so many questions at linebacker it will most likely be necessary for Morgan to play early and often.

This may not be the best freshmen class Notre Dame has ever had but it may be one of the most important and one with the highest participation.