Make no mistake, CPJ is looking forward to this game. So many times he's played ND (and all that comes with it) at Navy without a full deck and almost beat them...though he did beat them once. When he left Navy, the AD there mentioned that CPJ wanted to go to a school like GT so he can play a team like ND, and have a full deck.
Well, CPJ has a full deck at GT, and he has one of the best QBs in the college game. He's probably fielding his best defense since he's been at GT (though it's still to be determined fully). He's got skill guys and an OL he could only dream of while at Navy.
ND is a good team. Maybe not as good as they're ranked, but they have a very talented DL, and their LB Jaylon Smith is a top 5 pick in the NFL draft. There's talent on that defense. Their offense is a typical Brian Kelly offense...spread the field, attack vertically and horizontally via the pass, and now Malik Zaire looks to have taken the next step at QB. We could easily go in there and win...or get embarrassed. Guys, ND has a lot of talent on that team...despite what amount of credence you give to recruiting rankings, ND has recruited very well lately. Lots of interesting matchups in this game. Our OL versus their talented DL, JeT versus Jaylon Smith, Our secondary versus an emerging WR Will Fuller (7 catches, 142 yards, 2TDs). Their OL is pretty talented as well with a couple of NFL type guys blocking.
Going to be a fun game.
First, let's take care business with Tulane!