What to look for Sunday

Here are a few things that we will be keeping an eye on during the season opener against Texas.

The quarterback rotation.  One way or another this will be a big topic of discussion during and after the game, good or bad.  What will the rotation look like?  How will Kizer and Zaire perform?  How will the rest of the offense respond?  I would like to see one of these guys separate themselves from the other to cement a solid number one.

The offensive line.  This is supposed to be one of if not the number one strong point of this team.  They should do more than control the line of scrimmage and maybe more importantly as to me it is a measurement of a quality O-line, eliminate offside penalties.  Since depth seems to be more than good I am interested to see if and how Harry Hiestand rotates in players to keep them fresh.

Running Backs.  Simply what the split will be between Folston and Adams.  I would add Dexter Williams to the mix however since his run in with police I think Kelly will discipline like a parent and make him stand there and watch the other kids play.  Unlike the quarterback position I would love it if both received equal time and were had 1000 yard years.

Receivers.  This is a wide open area for the Irish.  There are a half dozen guys who could emerge as the go to guy.  Really, outside of Corey Holmes and Torii Hunter there is little to no real game experience on the roster.  We will look for ball distribution as well as yards after catch to see who has the extra skill outside of just good hands.  I am closer to the running backs as than the quarterbacks here, the more potential threats at the receiver position makes it harder for defenses to scheme and cover.

Tight ends.  We separated them for this discussion for one there are so many potential good receivers to look at and I think the tight end position is going to play a lesser role in the offense this season from a pass catching perspective.  Durham Smythe has seemed to separate himself from the pack but I am interested to see if and how Nic Weishar and Tyler Luatua will close the gap.

Coaching.  Kelly has his crew and most have them have at least a couple season in South Bend under their belt.  We’ll be looking at play calling, personal moves and for me penalties.

Defensive Line.  The starting front four look to be as good of a D-Line unit in the country.  First we need to see if that is in fact a true statement.  Second we need to see if players rotating in (as I assume they will) will be able to keep the level of play up to those on the first team.  Our overall depth is a bit unproven.

Linebackers.  This will be a pretty new looking crew on Sunday night.  If the defensive line can do their job it should take off some pressure from the linebackers.  Again, depth and player rotations could be an issue.  Nyles Morgan is on top of my list (out of all players) to see in action on Sunday.  Can/will he live up to his hype and abilities?

Defensive Backs.  If there is any area that is the biggest question mark it would be here.  It is the great unknown.  I believe there is little question about athleticism but if that translates to on field play is the ultimate question.

Special Teams.  Is there a better one- two punch in the kicking game besides Justin Yoon and Tyler Newsome?