JotCast | Notre Dame Football Live Chat Jan. 10, 2024

Notre Dame Football Live Chat Jan. 10, 2024

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Eric Hansen

3:23

OK, that's going to do it for today. Thanks for all the great questions. We're going to keep rolling weekly as long as there's interest and stuff to talk about. So next Wednesday at noon ET it is!

3:22

I would say, by and large you are correct in your observation about development, especially when you factor in QBs with NFL futures. But I would say it was very encouraging to see ND finish ninth nationally in team passing efficiency, one of the key metrics in teams winning national titles. It's the highest finish for the Irish by far since 2009, Jimmy Clausen's last season at ND when he was third individually and the Irish fourth. I think QBs coach Gino Guidugli is a big part of that, but recruiting has stepped up too ... the last time ND stacked three Rivals250 players at QB in back-to-back classes (Minchey/Carr/Knight) was in the Weis Era (Jones and Fraser/Clausen/Crist).

Pat McBride Scottsdale, AZ

3:17

Hello Eric: Developing player's talents is, obviously, a key to success on any level. In your opinion, has ND fallen short in that regard, especially at QB, in the past few decades? And, if so, will that change soon?

Eric Hansen

3:17

Hi Tom. I don't think the decision to hold Jordan Faison back until midseason affected the decision to dismiss Chansi Stuckey. That was a long-term decision involving awarding a scholarship the moment he played, because it would have to be shifted from lacrosse. And no, Faison and Merriweather did not play the same position.

Tom Kennesaw, GA

3:15

Eric, in some of Freeman's post bowl comments I believe he alluded to the fact that Faison probably should have been playing more earlier in the season. I am going to presume that although they played different positions, that many of those snaps went to Merriweather as the coaches kept trying to tap into his potential. Do you think that this played a role in replacing the WR coach?? Certainly player development and evaluation are two very important parts to any coaches job performance. Thanks. Go Irish!!

Eric Hansen

3:14

David, you and I both will be able to project the chances better after spring practice. While there is reason to believe this is a playoff-worthy team in 2024, there are a lot of questions that have to be answered. So let's revisit this in, say, late April?

David Indianapolis

3:13

What is the probability that this coming football season will be the Best One since Holtz's National Championship One? Or a slightly different question, yet gets at somewhat the same thing is what is the probability of a national championship this coming season? I say it is 35%. And I believe it is 100% possible. I am Hopeful.

Eric Hansen

3:13

Hi Rob. I'm just glad your participation in the chats is not perceived as a trap. Glad to have you ... Here's where I think you are on point. Marcus Freeman has created a great deal of momentum for the program going into this offseason, and Notre Dame's administration appears to be providing the tools he needs to maximize success. Those stars haven't always aligned. And while that doesn't guarantee anything, it does give Marcus Freeman more margin for error as he goes about trying to reach the lofty goals and expectations, which I think are realistic.

Irish Rob, Scranton PA

3:09

Eric, I have enjoyed these chats for many years now, as an avid fan of ND football. I have fallen into this trap before, as we all have I am sure, and find myself falling again. What is the trap you might ask??? I truly believe that ND has turned the proverbial corner, and is on the verge of breaking through. Things seem different from avenues I would criticize before, paying coaches to come here, taking on non graduate options through the transfer portal, recruiting wins at key positions, etc. My question to you is this, am I crazy to be feeling this way, or does it generally seem, from a non-fan's perspective that things are trending in the direction I am seeing them from?

Eric Hansen

3:09

Hi Jules, and thank YOU. ... I mean, Riley Leonard faced some of the better defenses in the country last season -- Nos. 5, 8, 21, 28, 29 in total defense, and Nos. 1-5-6-21 in pass-efficiency D, and I don't think any of them took it easy on him. He also faced a pretty good Duke defense in practices when the Blue Devils went 1s vs. 1s. Where I do think there can be an adjustment is the white noise, both the adulation and the scrutiny. I think that's a fair concern.

Jules, Joliet, Il

3:02

One of my concerns for the 2024 season is the same as 2023. I am concerned that the transfer QBs from the less than elite programs will find the experience at ND overwhelming compared to their previous situations. ND get everyone’s best shot each game day. I would think that this is a tough situation to adjust to. Do you feel that this is a legitimate concern? As always, thank you for hosting these great chats.

Eric Hansen

3:01

OK, if you say so, Matt. .... and thank you. My best guess at the moment for starters I just spit out in the last question. The competition this spring and a possible portal addition could scramble it. There are a lot of unknowns beyond the starters. Joe Rudolph has a long track record of development. Will we see that in a more pronounced way after getting a running start into spring this time and having a full season in the program? My guess is yes. Will OC Mike Denbrock help that development? No guess here. Yes is the answer. Will that line be a work in progress when the Irish open the season, still a yes. They need game reps to develop that chemistry together. But if they can make it through the A&M game, the schedule lends itself to growth without trauma the rest of the way. I do like the talent at the position group.

2:57

Matt from Austin

2:54

Hi Eric. Stay warm!!!! Thank you as always for your insight. From my perspective, next year's schedule looks favorable for ND. Still, with the loss of our two tackles, and the transfer of our center, do you think the line will have the time to come right out of the gate strong against Texas A & M? if so, what would your prediction as to the starters, even in light of strong bowl game performances? I guess that I would also wonder if you see a chance for a step forward from this year? Thanks again.

Eric Hansen

2:53

Hi Ced. Kevyn Humes is the 2025 cornerback prospect, who reclassified into the 2024 class and plans to sign with someone in February. He's supposed to take an official recruiting visit to ND later this month if he doesn't fall in love with someone else during his earlier visits. I would not say ND is the favorite, but they are in the mix.

cederickwalker

2:51

ced walker saginaw michigan marcus freeman great pick up with jayden harrison didnt see this coming at all great wr and kr im hearing notre dame is the favorite for kevyn humes here come the irish trust the process the golden standard rally we are nd god country go irish love thee notre dame our mother pray for us

Eric Hansen

2:51

Hi Rich. Assuming there is not a portal addition at offensive tackle and anyone who's injured (namely Rocco Spindler) fully recovers, I think there will be quite a robust competition across the board. I'd start with who do I think are the best five linemen regardless of position once spring concludes. My best projection (and it's far easier to do that after watching some practices) would be in no order: Charles Jagusah, Billy Schrauth, Aamil Wagner and then a blur of Tosh Baker, Ashton Craig, Rocco Spindler, Pat Coogan, Guerby Lambert. So if I had to pick five without seeing any practices, I'd say Jagusah, Wagner, Schrauth, Craig and Coogan. And if you ask me next week, I'll probably have a different combo. But Wagner is the non-starter who I think will break into the top five.

Rich Key West

2:42

Based on the offensive line candidates remaining unchanged through spring practice, what would your best guess be at what the depth chart will look at the conclusion of that practice period for that position grouping?

Eric Hansen

2:42

Yes, the recruiting piece is improving, but consistency will be important. I love how the 2025 D-line class is coming together. And the 2024 season should prove to be a great billboard for the future of recruiting at the position.

Sean, Schaumburg IL

2:41

Spot-on about Al Washington on FNS. He's improved his stature. Now, he needs to find consistency in recruiting/development.

Eric Hansen

2:41

Hi Roger. Thanks for watching/putting up with us on Football Never Sleeps. I really enjoy putting that show together and presenting it. Tyler does a great job of not cringing at my "dad" jokes. ... And love your suggestion for Jerome Bettis Jr. ... way better than what I could come up with. Yes, the Michigan story will continue to percolate loudly until there's resolution, even if Jim Harbaugh, as expected, leaves for an NFL job.

Roger from Peoria

2:36

Eric: As always appreciate your work and Tylers! Exactly what role does Chris O'leary perform for the Irish? His name seems to appear in many recruiting stories, not just with Safeties. Also, any comment on the potential impact of the NCAA letter to Michigan concerning possible recruiting violations on the Wolverine's National Championship? Would that not be a huge story? Also, respecting yesterday's "Football Never Sleeps", how about the "Greyhound" for Bettis, Jr. Don't they suggest "Take the bus and leave the driving to us"? GO IRISH!!

Eric Hansen

2:35

Hi Len. Really appreciate the recommendation and kind words. ... Michigan has had a deeper pool to choose from when it comes to transfers but ND's appears to be improving in that regard with juniors Riley Leonard and Beaux Collins being admitted. Neither program wants to become portal-reliant ... instead fill holes and keep it from being exposed with too much inexperience at a particular position group. Olu Oluwatimi was an incredible transfer pickup for Michigan. He started his career at Air Force after receiving no Power 5 offers, then developed into an All-America caliber center at Virginia after transferring there and walking on. He was the best center in the nation at Michigan in 2022. I do not recall ND pursuing him.

Len from the Jersey Shore

2:21

Hello Eric, I really enjoyed the Michigan comparisons to the ND program that you and Tyler discussed during this week's Football Never Sleeps episode. I would highly recommend it to all my fellow chatters. Indeed in many respects ND under CMF is similar to Michigan (and Georgia) as to how he is building the ND program. As a follow-up to those discussions could you compare the historical acceptance criteria for transfers at the two schools? CMF wants ND to be O-line D-line driven. I think back to Michigan adding the transfer center from Virginia a few year's ago and that that players solidified their O-line. I do not recall if ND pursued that center or not. As always your insights are greatly appreciated.

Eric Hansen

2:18

I think allowing Michigan into the playoff was the right move, because that case hasn't been adjudicated. And yes, it could be taken away. But predicting what the NCAA CAN and WILL do is like trying to predict a teenager's mood from one moment to the next (so glad those days are in the rearview mirror). I haven't followed the investigation close enough to give you a next step. If Michigan were my beat or the Irish were playing them before the next decade, I'd invest more time in that research,

White Cheddar Stillwater Ok

2:14

My question is about micheeegan and the illegitimate title they just “won”. I can’t believe they even got into the playoffs with the cheating they have already been engaged in. Do you think the ncaa will take games away or even take the title away. What is next in this investigation. Go Irish ☘️

Eric Hansen

2:13

One thing to keep in mind. Michigan's formula to winning a national title doesn't mean it's the only way or necessarily the one that will win next year's title. But the fact the Wolverines did win one with this blueprint is encouraging for what Notre Dame is putting together.

2:12

Hi Kevin!!!!!! I think you are seeing the vision to a large extent -- though I think Marcus Freeman would like to be a bit more dynamic and versatile on offense. But you are not yet seeing the reality. The offensive line's development this offseason will be incredibly influential in Notre Dame's bottom line in 2024. Having Mike Denbrock back to enhance that process is encouraging.

Kevin-Sleepy Eye,MN

2:09

Eric!!!!! Let's talk title game. Was I watching MF's vision for ND when seeing Michigan? Clearly an offense and defensive line driven champion.

Eric Hansen

2:09

That's eight incoming transfers for the Irish, a program record of scholarship transfers for a cycle. Heard projects as a safety for the Irish and can also play nickel and CB. The Irish are at 90 scholarships. Spring-semester classes and winter workouts start Tuesday. Here is a link to our scholarship chart. ... A significant addition to the Irish secondary.

2:07

Northwestern grad transfer DB Rod Heard II commits to Notre Dame

Some breaking news ...

2:06

Pat, I was told there would be no math higher than fifth-grade level. .... I will give it my best. I would say less than 80 percent ... because Riley, Mitchell, Eli and possibly Kris will mess up the math. Then again, I only got a C+ in calculus.

Pat, Buffalo Grove, IL

1:59

What are the odds that the J5; Jayden, Jaden, Jordan, Jadarian and Jeremiyah will account for at least 80% of the offense next year?

Eric Hansen

1:58

the early enrolled freshmen. ... As far as questions for Landow, I'm very curious about how he builds culture and leadership through the strength program and some of the latest advancements in sports science and how he'll implement those.

1:57

Hi Tom. Ask me again about the weather after this weekend. We're supposed to get our first major winter storm of the season AND below-xero temps. So, that means there will be no milk or bread at the grocery story after today, which I can live with. I think what attracts coaches and recruits to Marcus Freeman are two things about everything else -- the clarity of his vision for the program and the steps he'll take to reach that, and his authenticity. People feel like they can trust him. As far as grad transfers, it's multi-faceted. The chance to develop into an NFL prospect or enhance that, NIL opportunities, a graduate degree from a prestigious university if that's a goal, a chance to play in what appears to be an ascending program. ... I believe we'll have a chance to talk to Loren Landow before the end of the month, likely sooner, though that's not officially on the docket yet. We do know we'll have access over the next few weeks to interview all of the incoming portal guys as well as all (more)

Tom Kennesaw, GA

1:47

Hi Eric, I hope that the weather is not too bad in SB this week. It sure seems as though things are going well for MF recently starting with the excellent game in the Sun Bowl. However, his ability to get top coaches like Denbrock and Brown to buy into his program is another strong statement. What is it about MF and what he has done thus far and is selling for the future that gets these kind of commitments from coaches and recruits??? Also, what do you think ND is selling to the grad transfers in the portal to get so many key players to want to come to ND?? When will you be able to talk with the new Strength coach and what are some of the questions you will have?? Thanks for helping all of us with these chats. It is a long time till August. Hopefully the spring and summer will continue on a positive note. Go Irish!!!

Eric Hansen

1:47

Mike, I appreciate that. ,,, I think it's how you define make-or-break, which admittedly sounds self-explanatory. But the break part ... if he fashions one of the unacceptable records you threw out, does he get fired? No. Would there be consequences ... with a new AD, there would be some urgency in year 4. A lot of it. On the other end of the spectrum, if ND makes the playoff and even wins a game, that doesn't guarantee sustained success. Football is an evolutionary sport. It's very easy to fall behind the curve. What I like about Marcus Freeman a lot is that he is building his program and his philosophy where the commitment to evolving on on off the field is baked on. Historically, year 3 is a very telling year for Notre Dame head coaches. Maybe NIL and the transfer portal changes that calculus, but I'll go on record as saying this will be a critical year for Marcus Freeman. And yes the bottom line matters.

Mike-Quakertown, PA

1:40

Hi Eric, thanks for taking our questions. Your chats and articles help me get through the dead season in between the bowl game and the start of Spring ball. Is this a make or break year for Freeman? He has another grizzled vet transfer at QB, experienced transfer wide receivers to go along with talented underclassman at the position, two good running backs with more on the way, multiple top vets coming back on defense, and excellent and experienced coordinators. In year three and with all that I mentioned, I do not think 8-4 or even 9-3 is acceptable. I think it is playoff appearance or bust. What do you think! Thanks and have a good one!

Eric Hansen

1:40

Hi Denny. Allegedly, according to Sun Bowl officials, it's 80 pounds. You might be selling Brian Kelly short. I'm pretty sure I had a pic on my old office of BK at least holding the trophy, though not hoisting it.

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