Midweek thoughts about the Notre Dame football program, its recruiting efforts and college football:
SOPHOMORES STARTING TO EMERGE ON DEFENSE
Following the conclusion of the 2018 season we discussed the need for the 2018 recruiting class to have a strong offseason if the Irish were going to continue the strong play we’ve seen the last two seasons.
This is especially true on defense, where the Irish must replace three All-Americans, a team captain that is likely going to get picked in the first half of the NFL Draft, and a crafty veteran at nose tackle. The 2018 class was arguably the best defensive haul of the Brian Kelly era, and it contains the length, athleticism and potential to keep the defense from taking a step back.
Through ten practices of the spring some of the members of the class still seem to be a ways away from working into a rotation role, but seven players are making a legitimate push to carve out an important role next season.
Jack Lamb, Buck Linebacker – Lamb has looked every bit like the Rivals100 player this spring, showing excellent range and playmaking ability. His ability to play downhill and strike has also stood out, and if he can clean up execution from an assignment standpoint he could be a legit breakout player in the fall. As long as he can stay healthy expect Lamb to be a major part of the linebacker rotation in 2019.
