The season is still about eight months away but that won’t keep anyone from dreaming about what is to come this fall. Recently, ESPN looked at each of their projected Top-25 teams and named their biggest strength (insider).
For the Irish, who were ranked No. 6, Bill Connelly named the starting front seven of the defense as the biggest strength. He sees defensive linemen Isaiah Foskey and the Ademilola twins, Jayson and Justin, as major factors.
Depth is a big reason as well, as Connelly mentions “of the 10 linemen who played at least 100 snaps in 2021, eight currently return.” Another reason he’s bullish on this unit.
Next were the linebackers, JD Bertrand and Jack Kiser, getting singled out for their impressive past performances. Another interesting point was Connelly mentioning two players who have yet to officially suit-up for the Irish, linebackers Jaylen Sneed and Niuafe Tuihalamaka. He failed to mention rising sophomore Prince Kollie as a potential impact at the position as well. I think it’s safe to say the Irish defense will be a strong point during Marcus Freeman’s first season as the head coach.
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