Notre Dame Football: Can Cierre Wood Be a 1,000-Yard Rusher for the Irish?

After former Irish running back Armando Allen went down with a season-ending injury last season, former 5-Star prospect Cierre Wood took over.

All he did after that was finish the season with 603 yards on 119 carries to go along with three touchdowns.

After taking in his excellent performances down the stretch, the question that must be asked is whether or not Wood will be a 1,000-yard rusher this season.

He certainly has the talent and ability to get the job done, but there are always extenuating circumstances that may impede his progress.

First, Wood must remain healthy. While no one can predict injuries, Cierre Wood managed to stay perfectly healthy during his six starts last season. At 6'0" and 215 pounds, his durable frame is an asset for the California native. Hopefully he can remain just as durable this season.

The second circumstance surrounding Wood's goal to become a 1,000-yard rusher is the play of the offensive line. The unit was a solid one last season and figures to be even better this season as there are four returning starters.

If the line continues to play with tenacity and control the line of scrimmage, Cierre Wood will roll right to that 1,000-yard mark.

Aside from the play of the line, effective play from the other running backs on the roster will be crucial as well.

If Jonas Gray, George Atkinson and Cam McDaniel can all make contributions to the running game, the pressure will be taken off of Cierre Wood. Theo Riddick may also be an option to give Wood a breather.

The play-calling will also play a large role in Cierre Wood's quest for 1,000 yards.

Brian Kelly has been and will continue to be a pass-first coach, but he knows that there must be an equal balance with the running game.

Those 603 yards in only six starts last season for Wood will translate into one figure this season.

At least 1,000 rushing yards in 2011.