Irish Rising - What to Expect from Notre Dame in 2008

Four Ps – Pressure, Pound It, Protection, and Position. 

Pressure – John Tenuta’s pressure defensive philosophy and unpredictability will clearly be evident in the Irish defense.  Georgia Tech’s former defensive coordinator will line up 5-6 players on the defensive line and employ multiple blitzing schemes.  The rush will come from every angle, including the secondary.  The Irish defense may look like a base 3-4 or 4-3, taking advantage of different personnel, individual speed and game situations.  Georgia Tech’s defense led the nation in Sacks last year, were fourth nationally in Tackles for Loss and sent more than four rushers the majority of the time.  Notre Dame’s defense last year ranked second in Pass Defense and thirty-ninth overall in spite of a pitiful 96^th in rush defense.  The Irish return eight starters on defense.  Raeshon McNeill, who saw significant playing time last year, will now take DB Darrin Walls’ place, who will miss the fall.

    Some freshmen from the top-ranked recruiting class will see some significant minutes, especially along the defensive line.  Watch for Ethan Johnson and Darius Fleming.

Pound It – Charlie Weis is first and foremost a ball-control coach.  In 2006 and 2005, Weis used Brady Quinn’s arm to control possession.  The Irish’s Time of Possession in 2005 ranked third in the nation behind an experienced offensive line.  TOP for ND dropped to fortieth in 2006 and a miserable 107^thin 2007 with four new OL starters and inexperience at the skilled positions.

     The Irish return nine starters on offense including all three running backs – Armando Allen, Robert Hughes and James Aldridge.  Jimmy Clausen starts his second year as quarterback.  Four offensive line starters return in 2008.  Dan Wenger, who saw significant minutes last year at guard, replaces John Sullivan at center into his natural position.  Charlie has announced, to no one’s surprise, that the Irish would “pound it” in a running game.  But look for Clausen and his young, fast wide receiver corps to build on his mistakes from last year, learn from Charlie’s teaching, and mix in a passing control offense.      

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?