Notre Dame Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2019 season
By Jacob Wilson
Offensive line
Starting tackles: Liam Eichenberg (LT), Robert Hainsey (RT)
Backup: Josh Lugg
As has been the trend for the Irish over the last few years, this offensive line unit is one that should generate plenty of excitement and confidence heading into Week 1. Only a couple of years ago we saw Quenton Nelson and Mike McGlinchey both go top 10, a testament to just how good this Irish offensive line can be. Two years later, Sam Mustipher and Alex Bars are trying their hands at the NFL.
Offensive line coach Jeff Quinn will be rolling out yet another talented unit in 2019 with senior Liam Eichenberg and captain Robert Hainsey manning the tackles. These two will undoubtedly be staples of the offensive line, anchoring the unit against a slew of tough defensive lines on the schedule. Josh Lugg is in line to be first man up in the case of injuries at either tackle position.
Starting guards: Aaron Banks (LG), Tommy Kraemer (RG)
Backup: Trevor Ruhland
Following a season-ending knee injury to Bars in 2018, sophomore at the time Aaron Banks stepped in and played very well considering the circumstances. With Bars now fighting for a roster spot on the Chicago Bears, Banks will continue to serve as the team’s starting left guard. Senior Tommy Kraemer, who had a bit of an up and down start to his career, looks to establish himself as an elite option for the Irish after being named a second-team AP All-American for the preseason.
Trevor Ruhland will be the primary option should either Banks or Kraemer go down, providing excellent depth for what should be one of Notre Dame’s greatest strengths. With Miles Boykin gone, quarterback Ian Book will need to develop a rapport with some of his young wide receivers. He’ll need to remain upright to do so, and the offensive line will play a vital role in that.
Starting center: Jarrett Patterson
Backup: Trevor Ruhland, Colin Grunhard
One of the most encouraging developments of the spring was the progression and maturity of redshirt-freshman Jarrett Patterson. Patterson, a four-star product out of California, is on the fast track to becoming another recent addition to the Notre Dame greats at the position.
Head coach Brian Kelly rarely throws redshirt freshman on the field to start a season, especially on the offensive or defensive lines where strength and physical maturity are so vitally important. Needless to say, Patterson starting at center is a great sign for his potential at the position. Should he miss time here and there, Ruhland will likely be first in line with Colin Grunhard also an option if the former is busy.