Notre Dame Football: 3 biggest depth chart surprises heading into 2020

2. A Simon/Liufau vs. Lamb/Genmark Heath tandem at Buck

Now this one struck me as a complete surprise. I wrote earlier in the offseason about what was expected to be one heck of a battle between junior Jack Lamb and senior Jordan Genmark Heath for the starting Buck linebacker spot, ultimately concluding that we would likely end up seeing a combination of the two.

However, the Irish’s latest depth chart suggests that the battle is now between junior Shayne Simon and sophomore Marist Liufau. Shortly after the announcement of the depth chart, Genmark Heath announced that he would be leaving the team (but remaining at the school through graduation) via Twitter. Lamb remains with the team although his exact role in uncertain.

Circling back to Simon and Liufau, the former was recruited by the Irish as a top 100 prospect with all the tools to be an excellent rover. Senior and early-round draft prospect Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has since taken a vice grip on that position, forcing Simon to linebacker. Liufau, despite being a less prestigious recruit, has clearly made his presence known to the coaching staff.

While Lamb and Genmark Heath appeared to be more than serviceable options, it’s encouraging to see Simon and Liufau progress to the extent that they are now viewed as starting-caliber options. Their respective playing styles would suggest that Simon serves as the team’s every-down option with Liufau making appearances in passing situations.