Notre Dame’s season opener against Navy is just 12 days away. Actually, less since we’re past the time of kickoff.
A reminder – Navy has a new coach this year. Brian Newberry has taken over for Navy staple and occasional pain in Notre Dame’s side, Ken Niumatalolo. Perhaps the new man in charge has some tricks up his sleeve waiting for the Irish in Ireland? If ever there were a time for such shenanigans, I think this may be the perfect one.
Newberry knows he is undermanned and under-talented against the Irish and that he may have to take some chances to try and pull the upset. In his favor is the fact that there is no film of him as a head coach. He’s a bit of a wildcard. What is his appetite for risk/reward vs coach Ken’s? Notre must be ready for everything.
Adding to this already intriguing Dublin plot is the recent report in the Capital Gazette which indicates that Newberry may be inclined to play 2 quarterbacks against Notre Dame as he named Blake Horvath and Tai Lavatai QB A-1 and A-2. Let’s examine what this move would mean for Notre Dame as they line us against Navy to open the year.