Notre Dame Football: 2017 season preview and predictions

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SOUTH BEND, IN – NOVEMBER 19: Bucky Hodges #7 of the Virginia Tech Hokies catches a tpouchdown pass in front of Julian Love #27 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium on November 19, 2016 in South Bend, Indiana. Virginia Tech defeated Notre Dame 34-31. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Defense

The Notre Dame defenses of years past have been known for being tough and stingy. The 2016 version of the defense was soft and porous. Obviously, there’s room for growth on this side of the ball, but it’s not going to be easy to replace seven starters.

Three of the top four leaders in tackles from last season return, headlined by standout middle linebacker Nyles Morgan. He could prove to be the leader of this defense and surpass the 100-tackle mark during his senior campaign.

Also back are junior linebackers Drue Tranquill, who was second on the team in tackles, and Te’von Coney who was fourth. The linebackers will clearly be a strength of this team while the secondary could also be looking up.

Julian Love returns at one corner, as a sophomore, as does second-year player Devin Studstill at safety. The secondary will be young, and half will be new starters, but it has the potential to be lockdown compared to the 2016 version.

Can the run defense improve?

Unfortunately for Notre Dame, the defensive line is a major area of concern heading into the 2017 season. There are only two returning starters and only one of them is projected to start — although Andrew Trumbetti could crack the starting rotation with a strong fall camp.

Last year, the defense ranked 72nd against the run, allowing 182.4 rushing yards per game, which is obviously not ideal. Kelly was openly frustrated with his defense all year long and changes had to be made. Will that lead to an improved run defense in 2017?

It’s possible with the young, talented pieces in place. There are veterans who could lead the way in senior defensive end Jay Hayes and junior tackles Jerry Tillery (a returning starter) and Jonathan Bonner, but don’t sleep on sophomore sensation end Daelin Hayes. He was an elite recruit out of high school and if he can stay healthy, he could be a true breakout performer.

Sophomores Elijah Taylor and Julian Okwara could also have an impact. Combine those pieces with a strong linebacking unit and you’ll see a vastly improved run defense and pass-rushing unit — they only recorded 13 sacks as a team in 2016.

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