Everyone knows the officials screwed up. Why can’t that part at least be admitted or acknowledged?
Good morning and happy Monday. If you missed it over the weekend Mike Brey was none too pleased over how Saturday night’s loss at Florida State was officiated.
The Fighting Irish lost a close one in Tallahassee and now the university has to pay for Brey’s outburst.
In a statement released by the Atlantic Coast Conference Monday morning the following has been handed down:
-The ACC issues a public reprimand of Brey for his comments because he violated the ACC sportsmanship policy.
-The league also handed Notre Dame a $20,000 fine for the violation.
-The ACC also considers this matter closed and will have no further comment.
Listen, Notre Dame got to the free throw line more than Florida State did Saturday. I don’t think any official went in with the idea of fixing things to make sure an upset was avoided.
The thing that bothers me the most isn’t as much an ACC problem as it is a sports problem. Officials clearly messed up like they do in any league or level of play and anyone with a functioning pair of eyes could see it. Yet when no comment is made about Brey in this instance having a point, it feels like complete propaganda.
You and I watch that showing by the officials and know it was awful. Joe in accounting who doesn’t watch basketball even knows the officials were brutal. So what then would the harm be in at least releasing something in that statement that read along the lines of “The ACC is reviewing the officials performance from Saturday’s game”?
Everyone knows the officials screwed up. Why can’t that part at least be admitted or acknowledged? I say that in regards to strictly officiating, not in Brey’s comments about the league having it out for Notre Dame.
I think I speak for most college basketball observers when I say that officiating in the game is awful. I don’t like to play the blame game but I do feel like just flipping on a random Big Ten game in the middle of the week will give multiple occurrences where you ask yourself “what the heck was that?” in regards to a call.
Why can’t that at least be acknowledged instead of sports organizations pushing their propaganda? Instead it comes off to me as treating viewers and fans as if they’re stupid.
A week of practice for more than 100 college seniors from across the nation culminated on Saturday with the 2020 Senior Bowl, where the North had a dominating 34-17 victory over the South team. The North won the game with a strong run game, and a great front-four that was rotated throughout the game.
Could the Bills be interested in any standouts from the game?
Let’s look at who stood out during the Senior Bowl and helped their draft stock before the NFL combine:
North defensive lineman Alton Robinson. Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
EDGE Alton Robinson, Syracuse
This is the beginning of the edge rushers that will be discussed because the North created consistent pressure with just four men. Not many people outside of Central New York saw Alton Robinson play during his time at Cuse but he had 19.5 sacks in his career, who has a variety of moves and a great motor.
During the Senior Bowl he had two sacks, the first was against the elusive Jalen Hurts where Robinson bullied his matchup and dragged Hurts down. His second was against Steven Montez where Montez escaped the initial pressure but, Robinson tracked him down and finish the sack.
The Buffalo Bills need more players who can pressure the quarterback, and Robinson is projected as a Day 3 pick, so he should be on the radar of Brandon Beane and Sean McDermott.
A closer look at @CuseFootball's Alton Robinson and his performance at the 2020 Reese's @seniorbowl.
However, had Pride left a year early you’re looking at what, a very late round pick if he gets drafted at all?
Let me just start by saying evaluating passing games in the Senior Bowl is difficult. It’s difficult in that only very generic coverages are run, quarterbacks aren’t facing blitzes, nor do they have to worry about twists or anything wild being thrown at their linemen.
With that said, I still think making a huge play in the game as a defensive back is better than not making a big play.
Captain Obvious, right?
Well, Troy Pride, Jr. wrapped up his impressive week at the Senior Bowl with exactly that.
Troy Pride Jr. (@NDFootball) with the pick for the North!
People have taken notice of Pride who showed out in practices long before Saturday’s interception.
I wasn’t sure what I was going to see from @NDFootball CB Troy Pride at the #SeniorBowl knowing he’d have to play 1-on-1 close coverage with some bigger WRs.
What I do know is that Pride is a fantastic example of what staying in school can do for a player. Yes, it’s easy to want the money and I’ll never knock a football player for seeking compensation for putting their bodies on the line like they do.
Had Pride left a year early you’re looking at what, a very late round pick if he gets drafted at all?
Now you’re talking a possible day-two of the draft type player as Pride proved Notre Dame’s pass defense wasn’t just a fluke but that is was one of the very best in college football in 2019.
Claypool deserves credit because it’s a nice route but the defensive back that shall remain nameless wasn’t, um, we’ll just say he doesn’t appear to be the next Deion Sanders.
Playing the final time with the iconic golden helmet on his head, Chase Claypool scored a touchdown.
Participating the annual Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, Claypool has been a player getting much praise throughout the week.
Although most scouts will say that the practices in Mobile matter more than the actual game, Claypool didn’t exactly struggle in game, scoring a touchdown just past the midway point of the third quarter.
It won’t go down in his official Notre Dame records but I have trouble believing there were many receptions, let alone touchdowns receptions for Claypool since he’s started playing football than that.
He completely froze the defensive back and went undefended as you see. Claypool deserves credit because it’s a nice route but the defensive back that shall remain nameless wasn’t, um, we’ll just say he doesn’t appear to be the next Deion Sanders.
Claypool’s touchdown reception gave the North a 23-10 third quarter lead.
Landon Bartleson is facing burglary charges for breaking into a business in Danville, Kentucky and stealing nine guns.
WKYT in Lexington, Kentucky is reporting Notre Dame signee to the football recruiting class of 2020, Landon Bartleson is facing burglary charges for breaking into a business in Danville, Kentucky and stealing nine guns.
Bartleson and two juveniles were taken into custody Friday.
Bartleson signed his letter of intent to play football for Notre Dame on December 18. The 6-1, 182 pound cornerback received a three-star grade from Rivals.
it was a different former Notre Dame defensive back that walked out with the “DB of the Week” award for the North team.
If you’ve been paying attention to the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama this week you’ve heard a ton about how former Notre Dame cornerback Troy Pride, Jr. has wowed the masses and elevated his draft stock.
That may all be fine and true but it was a different former Notre Dame defensive back that walked out with the “DB of the Week” award for the North team.
It instead went to Jalen Elliott who was voted the winner by the the north teams wide receivers that he spent all week practicing against.
I want to thank @JimNagy_SB and the whole @seniorbowl staff for giving me the opportunity to compete against some of the best in the country… The journey is just beginning! Make sure y’all tune in this Saturday for a great game 🙏🏿 #NorthvsSouthpic.twitter.com/BVdMr8euLh
Participating in the Dodgeball Competition in the Pro Bowl Skills Competition, Nelson had a ball bounce of his hands right before another, well, gave Big Q a wakeup call.
Good morning and happy Friday to all of you!
Crazy weather across the Midwest aka winter (it happens every year) so what better way to wake up this Friday and get ready for your weekend than by watching a former Notre Dame star participate in the NFL’s Pro Bowl Skills Competition?
All-World offensive guard Quenton Nelson of the Indianapolis Colts is a beast. He’s in rare-air in that he’s been a First-Team All-Pro in both of his first two NFL seasons, he’s the straw that stirs the drink for the Colts offensive line and he’s got perhaps the best set of highlights we’ve ever seen for a guard.
One thing he doesn’t appear to have however is a great set of hands.
Participating in the Dodgeball Game in the Pro Bowl Skills Competition, Nelson had a ball bounce of his hands right before another, well, gave Big Q a wakeup call.
Quenton Nelson getting hit in the face with a dodgeball at the NFL Pro Bowl Skills Competition is as funny as you would imagine pic.twitter.com/Hho3WXdm4E
In my head that is what Quenton Nelson is doing right now – storming through Disney Land destroying whoever hit him in the face and each of their teammates one by one.
On Thursday evening, Notre Dame extended in offer to class of ’21 LB Smael Mondon.
Recruiting never sleeps and the Irish are at it again, this time offering Georgia linebacker Smael Mondon Jr, from Paulding High School Thursday evening. The four star outside linebacker stands six-foot-three and weighs 210 pounds.
The Irish currently do not have any commits at the position in their 2021 class, and if they were to add Mondon it would be a huge coup for Brian Kelly and Clark Lea.
Mondon also plays running back for the Paulding Patriots, and after his junior year, earned region 7AAAAA Athlete/All-Purpose Player of the Year. A linebacker that can run like Mondon is always in high demand and taking one look at his highlight reel he is quite an impressive prospect. Mondon also excels on special teams, lining up for his Patriots on the edge and blocking multiple field goal attempts. Mondon reads and reacts well in the passing game as well, with his speed shining in that area once again.
Mondon has a very impressive offer list, which include Clemson, Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Oklahoma and many others. He is a national recruit and if the Irish are able to pull him out from the South, it would be a fantastic start for the linebacker position in the ’21 class.
Mondon is the type of difference maker that helps win championships, and if Notre Dame expects to compete and win those kinds of games, getting a commit from Mondon will go a long way helping attain that goal.
They ask that anyone who has seen Annrose Jerry since or has any potential information on her whereabouts call the Notre Dame Police Department at 574-631-5555.
Annrose Jerry, a Senior who lives on Notre Dame’s campus has not been seen since the night of January 21 and university police are seeking help from the community to help find her.
The University of Notre Dame tweeted out the following on Thursday night:
University police are asking for help in locating Annrose Jerry, a senior who lives on campus. She was last seen on campus Tuesday evening (Jan. 21). If you have information, please contact Notre Dame Police at 574-631-5555.https://t.co/oGYHJy9625pic.twitter.com/I2KIb76uy3
In the release on Notre Dame’s website, Annrose Jerry is listed as 5-feet-5-inches in height and has dark hair.
The university states that Jerry was last seen at 8:45 Tuesday night at Coleman-Morse Hall. They ask that anyone who has seen Annrose Jerry since or has any potential information on her whereabouts call the Notre Dame Police Department at 574-631-5555.
Check out Draft Wire’s exclusive interview with Notre Dame edge defender Julian Okwara
In today’s NFL, you can never have too many talented pass rushers. If your favorite team is looking for an edge defender who is no stranger to overcoming challenges and making big plays, they should be all over Notre Dame’s Julian Okwara.
One of the top edge rushers in the 2020 NFL draft class, Okwara recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his childhood journey to the United States from Nigeria, how he approaches his pass-rushing plan, and how playing for the Fighting Irish prepared him for the next level.
JM: You moved to the U.S. from Nigeria in the third grade. You were obviously quite young, but I’m curious as to what you remember about that process, and if you experienced any culture shock at all?
JO: Yeah, it was a process for us. I lived in Nigeria with my dad, and my brother, Romeo. I remember Romeo and I just hanging out. We always had sports when life got tough. I remember playing a lot of basketball growing up. I was a soccer guy, as well. We were always hanging out outdoors. We made the move to Charlotte when I was eight years old. It wasn’t much of a culture shock because I had some family here already. They really helped us make a smooth transition. My brother and sister were already here with my mom. It was more about getting used to new surroundings. It wasn’t so bad if I’m being honest.
JM: Your mom came here first, as you said, and you guys eventually followed. They made quite the sacrifice. What did that teach you about hard work?
JO: It taught me that hard work comes with a lot of sacrifice. My dad took a huge risk by bringing his family here while he was still in Nigeria working on his business and other things he had going on at the time. He ultimately knew that coming to America was one of the best things he could do for his family. He was able to make some sacrifices, my mother was already here with my other brother and sister. It was all about making a better life for ourselves.
I think it all worked out nicely. Romeo is playing in the NFL, my other brother has a great job back in Charlotte, and I’m on my way as well. My sister is in college right now. Education was always huge for our family. I think my dad knew that moving us here gave us the best chance. My dad actually went to college as well. He understood the benefits and potential payoff of moving his family here. It all worked out in the long run.
(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
JM: How much of being a successful pass rusher is accomplished pre-snap?
JO: A lot of it starts pre-snap. For me, it starts with being familiar with the quarterback in general. I pay attention to the cadence and things of that nature. I’m a big film guy. Any advantage you can gain going into a game is huge. Getting in the film room and picking up on anything about his habits before he snaps the ball can be huge. It’s about getting familiar with that and being able to key in on it during a game. Watching the offensive linemen on film is obviously a huge component as well. I try to look at their body language and see if I can pick up on anything. For example, when he’s a little low in his stance before the snap, it’s likely a run play. You just try to pick up on a tell and key in on that.
JM: I love that. Do you have a favorite pass rush move?
JO: I love bull-rushing people. I love to use my stab, as well. I have pretty long arms, or at least that’s what I’ve always been told (laughs). That’s the move I’ve always worked on. I’ve been working on that since I was a freshmen. To be able to use that move, to be able to keep contain in the run game, those are some of the things I’m really proud of. I can use it to come under, shed the block and get to the quarterback. I think it’s more of a two-way move, I can use that without selling out to get to the quarterback in case it’s a run play. It’s important that I don’t lose contain.
JM: Let’s say that bull rush is stopped, you’re having trouble with it. How do you counter?
JO: I’ve incorporated the spin move quite a bit. I’m more of a finesse player. I try not to overthink things and run with whatever the offensive linemen is giving me. You can’t be too fixated on what you’ve done in the past and what not. Every game is different and every opponent is different. I have to make sure I’m well prepared for each opponent because the strategy has to stay fresh. I have to practice what I’m good at, but I also have to be ready to counter. That can really help you throughout the course of a game.
Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
JM: I’ve heard some great news regarding your recovery from injury. I see a dynamic, athletic player on film. What can you tell me about that?
JO: I’ve been rehabbing a lot. A lot of people seemed to think the injury was a lot worse than it was. I was never injured before that. To have a minor injury, I’m thankful that I’ve been healthy throughout my collegiate career. I now understand what it’s like to overcome the process of rehabbing. Everybody goes through it at some point. That’s just the nature of the game.
I’m working my way towards the NFL right now and there’s always going to be some sort of adversity when you’re working towards such a major goal or accomplishment. I’ve been rehabbing twice a day and the process has been going well. I have some amazing people in my corner. They’re constantly checking in on me and making sure I’m good to go. I’ve been attacking rehab the same way I attack a workout or a practice. You just have to commit yourself. That part is crucial. I’ve been getting my strength back day by day.
JM: Playing at Notre Dame allowed you the opportunity to play against some of the best competition college football has to offer. Who are some of the best offensive linemen you’ve gone up against?
JO: I would say the best offensive tackle I’ve faced throughout my career was Andrew Thomas from Georgia. He’s a really strong guy and it’s always a challenge to go up against him. I think I went up against him during my freshmen or sophomore year when we played them at home and then again this past season. He’s an incredible player that we always had to account for. You better be ready for him.
JM: Is there one NFL quarterback that you’d love to sack?
JO: I would probably say Tom Brady. I just think he’s one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game. I just read an article that said he’s coming back next year so maybe I’ll get my chance to get after him (laughs). If we’re on the same team, I won’t be allowed to touch him of course. I’m not trying to lose my job (laughs). Anyone that plays defense, you’ve always dreamed about going up against these legendary quarterbacks and he’s obviously one of those guys.
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
JM: The NFL Scouting Combine will be here before we know it. Are you looking forward to any drills in particular?
JO: I’m looking forward to the bench press. I always see people talking about how small I am compared to this person or that person. I expect to see my bench numbers a little higher than the guys I’m sometimes compared with. I love going out there and showing people that I’m strong enough to set the edge and be a force in the run game as well. I’m strong enough to bull rush my opponent into the quarterback’s lap. I’m excited about the chance to show off my ability in all of the drills and show that my size is a non-issue. I’m out to prove that I’m gonna be a great addition to any organization.
JM: You had some great teammates at Notre Dame, but I’m gonna put you on the spot: If you were going into battle tomorrow and could only bring one with you, who would it be and why?
JO: I would probably say Jamir Jones. We came in together. He’s a defensive end that I’m close with. We knew we could always count on him. He was always ready to step in and do whatever the team asked of him. Whether guys were getting injured or whatever, he always stepped in and sacrificed himself for the greater good of our locker room. He’s just an excellent teammate and a super reliable guy. He’s always been one of my best friends. We have each other’s backs no matter what. We just have that connection.
JM: If you could pick the brain of any current or former pass rusher, who would it be and why?
JO: Von Miller. I’ve been watching him since I was in middle school. He’s always been one of my idols as a pass rusher. He’s definitely one of the greatest pass rushers of our era. He’s just been super productive. His ability to bend the corner and get to the quarterback is such a pleasure to watch. He just wreaks havoc out there. I’d love to understand the way he plays the game. That would be a fun sit-down for me. Getting tips from him would be a blessing.
JM: Lots of mock drafts are placing you in the first round. I wanna give you a chance to tell me why that’s justified at this point?
JO: I believe I’m one of the best defensive ends in the country, if not THE best defensive end in the country. I think my skill-set could benefit any defensive game plan or alignment. I think I’m scheme versatile, I can play defensive end in a 4-3 alignment or outside linebacker in a 3-4. I have a lot of room to grow still. Any team that picks me is getting a fierce competitor who won’t accept anything less than being great. I wanna be one of the best defensive ends to ever played the game. I’m excited to bring my leadership attributes to the locker room as well. I’m a lead by example kinda guy. I’ll do everything I can to get the best outta the guys around me.
JM: How will you look back on your time at Notre Dame a few years from now?
JO: Coming to Notre Dame helped me become the man that I am today. There were points in my life throughout high school that I didn’t know what the future held for me when it came to the athletics. I can look back at it already and say I graduated from Notre Dame. I’ll forever be an alumni. I’ll always think about that and remember the people that helped me along the way. I’ll always remember the staff, everyone in the athletic department, my family of course. They really have a family environment up there. I knew they always had my back. It’s a true four-year program. It really speaks for itself.
