Notre Dame Football: 5 bold predictions for September 2019
By Jacob Wilson
4. Jahmir Smith out-rushes Tony Jones Jr.
Heading into this season, running backs Jafar Armstrong and Tony Jones Jr. were expected to share the load after having nearly identical statistical seasons a year ago. However, Armstrong injured his groin only two carries in, an injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for about five weeks. The bye week comes in handy here, but the Irish will still be without a key piece against Georgia.
With that said, head coach Brian Kelly and his coaching staff will have to find a replacement for Armstrong if they don’t want to rely on Jones to carry the entire rushing attack. Sophomore Jahmir Smith seems like the best fit alongside Jones, earning eight carries for 24 yards and two touchdowns against what was a porous Louisville defense in 2018.
Nevertheless, Smith could be in line for some early down and goal-line work if the Irish want to keep Jones in more of a receiving and pass-blocking role. However, it’ll be hard to keep the ball out of Jones’s hands after a 110 yard performance against Louisville. However, there’s the chance that Smith does emerge as the No. 1 option in the backfield if Jones can’t handle the increased workload.