AP fileHelp from the boys up front
The word "vision" is maybe overused when talking about running backs, but Walker see things particularly well. He really is a patient runner, and received a compliment from Weis on his patience after the win over Washington. Walker looks like he is kind of cruising in second gear, and then boom he sees a hole and he is into third and fourth gear.
I think the offensive line has done a much better job of opening holes than it did a year ago. In fact, I think the offensive line has been collectively the unsung hero of Notre Dame's success this season. These are the same guys who held these positions last year, but they are playing much better.
And for the most part, Irish quarterback Brady Quinn is getting superb pass protection. It seems like he's getting all day to find an open receiver and throw the ball. So to me the offensive line has done a great job in blocking for both the pass and the run game.
Looking to wake up the echoes
Notre Dame linebacker Corey Mays has said the Irish are just trying to show the country who they are as a team, and with three wins in its first four games, Notre Dame has caught the attention of many around college football.
I feel Notre Dame is reflective of its coach, and because of that the Irish are a mentally tough team. Irish opponents are going to find Notre Dame playing tough for four quarters. And because of their mental toughness the Irish are going to win their share of close games.
It should just get better for the Irish as the season goes along as I think Notre Dame as a team, and Walker as a running back, are going to continue to improve.
It took a while for the light bulb to go on, but when it did, Jonas Gray finally showed the talent many had expected from the blue-chip prospect from Detroit. In a recent interview, Gray, who is rehabbing an ACL injury to get ready for the NFL Scouting Combine, expressed the confidence and support he has for head coach Brian Kelly.
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Notre Dame 2011 schedule See when all the big matchups will take place with Notre Dame's 2011 schedule. NBCSports.com |
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