Bold Predictions

We saw some good BOLD predictions for the Irish in 2014 on Rockne's Roundtable and we thought we would share some and comment on them.  We passed on the too bold of predictions posted, i.e. undefeated season, Heisman Trophy talk, National Championships and so on.

Malik Zaire will have at least one TD pass and one rush TD in non-trivial game situations, meaning not when the game has already been decided. This could be either due to Golson injury or wrinkles introduced in the offense with 2 QBs in the game. The latter is preferred. - from NDPR

Although I don't think this is a bold prediction I do think and hope that Malik Zaire does get some playing time as an opportunity to see what he has, prepare for the future and build up some confidence.  Of course this should happen because we want it to not because it has to because of injury or poor play by Golson.

Ben Koyack will be out-performed by Durham Smythe. - from ND89

I doubt it.  However It having Smythe emerge as a very effective number two tight end would be nice.

Greg Bryant will lead the team in rushing yards. - from Tom Loy

Possible but not probable with McDaniel and Folston returning.

Jaylon Smith will earn All American honors - from Tshea

No.  At least not first team.  A more realistic bold prediction would be an Honorable Mention somewhere or a long shot of third team.

Golson announces after Bowl Game he's turning pro with a mid to late 2nd round grade. - from BMD

Possible, but he would be more likely a later lick than 2nd round.

Russell wins the Thorpe award for best DB. - from Amosirish03 & Russell becomes a consensus All American.  - from BMD

It looked like that may be a fair thought after his freshman season however his sophomore campaign would make me think twice about either one of these.

Pre Spring Practice Press Conference

Now that Spring Practice has kicked off here is a snapshot of Brian Kelly's Annual Spring Practice opening Press Conference.

Because of the cold temperatures the team will begin practices inside.

This in the earliest practices have started.  There will be 2 practices then spring break and back for the remaining practices before Easter.  (There are a total of 15 practices)

There are new coaches on both sides of the ball, notability in the coordinator positions.  Mike Denbrock - Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receivers and Brian VanGorder - Defensive Coordinator/Inside Linebackers.  There have also been some coaching responsibility changes. 

Kelly describes the team as "a talented team but inexperienced in a number of areas"

On Golson; he is a hard workier and they are going to work on consistancey and communication.

Although Nick Martin is listed as a guard/tackle his IS  a center.

Matthias Farley was moved from Safety to Cornerback.  Farley came to South Bend as a Receiver.

James Onwualu was moved from Receiver to Safety.

Areas of inexperience as stated by Brian Kelly; quarterback, defensive line and inside linebacker.

On starting left tackle.  Kelly mentions Elmer, Stanley, McGlinchey and Lombard.  Although Kelly does not buy into the blind side left tackle.  Mentioning most athletic and size Ronnie Stanley, most comfortable and time there it's Steve Elmer.  They mostly identify players as a tackle not a left or right.

Ishaq Williams will play like Prince Shembo coming off the edge with his hand on the ground but he can and will drop back into coverage.

Injury Status as it pertains to contact

Nick Baratti everything but full contact

Nick Martin - No contact

Ben Council - No contact

Devin Butler - out for spring

Jarrett Grace - slow progress, still healing.

Tony Springman - out for spring

Positions are up for grabs this spring.  There are no guaranteed positions.

On Jaylon Smith.  Looking for more consistency and leadership.