There, I said it! All this talk about Reds, BSG, razor blades, books and babies is getting tiresome. We need to refocus this blog on what is really important - Notre Dame football!I have been faithfully following all the coverage of ND during spring practice. There is a ton if info available. Videos, articles, ESPN specials and even a Twitter feed from Charlie Weis with multiple updates every day! The opinions that are coming from almost every source (including those that have routinely ripped the Irish over the last 2 years) point to a BIG TURNAROUND in 2009.
The biggest storylines so far have been the emergence of the offensive line, especially with our new and improved running game, and the rapid development of our young defensive line. I don't know about you guys, but these were the keys to the season in 2008. Both let us down. The special emphasis on these areas for 2009, highlighted by new coaches on both lines gets me very excited about the season.
No matter how you slice it, we were VERY YOUNG in 2007. In 2008, we had flashes of brilliance, but struggled to hold onto leads and close out games - another sign of inexperience. Everything seemed to come together for the Hawaii Bowl. IN 2009, we have a talented, upper class team with some star underclassmen as well. If we can establish a run game to compliment our already spectacular passing game, our offense will be putting 40 points up like the good old days of Holtz. If we can get a consistent pass rush out of our D-line, we are going to be scary. Our D-backs are already the strength of our D. I think teams could have trouble moving the ball on us.
Back to my original prediction. I look at the schedule and see a legit opportunity to run the table. Sure, there are plenty of tough games, highlighted by a home matchup with USC. All the stars are aligned for Weis to finally beat Carroll. However, we also have 3 quality opponents to finish the season forcing us to play hard and giving an opportunity to showcase our team at the end of the season when it matters most.
Do I think we go undefeated? No. I think we lose 1 or 2 along the way, but that is enough to return us to a BCS game. A BCS win will put us back at the elite level that we have fallen from in the past decade. Sure, if a few things fall our way, we could surprise and sneak into the National Title Game. But a strong season and a BCS win will put us right back on top. If we can keep enough players around for 2010, you have to think we would be one of the favorites to win a National Title.
Now can we figure out a game that we can plan to head to South BEnd for???
At least someone in the family is positive. I honestly don't think we'll have a BIG turnaround. A turnaround, yes, but nothing too amazing. I'm thinking 8-4.
ReplyDeleteSeeing as how the blog poll hasn't been changed in a year, Ted, why don't you put up a poll (since none of the rest of us have access) asking for predictions on this seasons record. I'd like to gauge everyone's level of optimism for the season.
I'm good for any game - there are 3 in October, but I don't know if we can get all the tickets we'll need for USC. Maybe the Washington game on 10/3?