The 2011 season for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish was certainly one to forget, but with all the roster changes, the 2012 season could be another disaster.

The only way to prevent this from happening is if certain players step their game up for Notre Dame.

Losing Michael Floyd to the NFL hurts, so look for new faces to rise up and hopefully play at an elite level. Of course, it’s uncertain who they will be just yet, but one thing’s for sure: Notre Dame desperately needs them to produce big time.

The return of tight end Tyler Eifert definitely helps, as does the return of linebacker Manti Te'o. Notre Dame's defense should be in good hands, but the main concern is how the offense will shape up in 2012.

Things will be just fine, though, if guys most people have never heard of start living up to their potential.

If you like what you see, click here for more from Bleacher Report Productions.  

I’m Eric Bowman. Follow me on Twitter: @E_ROCK12.