Notre Dame Football: Best, worst, and most likely scenarios for 2021

Nov 7, 2020; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Kyren Williams (23) celebrates with offensive lineman Robert Hainsey (72) after a touchdown in the first overtime against the Clemson Tigers at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeated Clemson 47-40 in two overtimes. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

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Something has clicked with Brian Kelly over the past few seasons as he has led Notre Dame football to the playoff two times in three years.

The quarterback who helped Kelly lead Notre Dame to the national semifinal is gone, however. Ian Book has graduated after an impressive career with the Irish and has given way to Wisconsin transfer Jack Coan along with highly-touted freshman Tyler Buchner.

Notre Dame has plenty of talent left over from last year’s squad, though. Michael Mayer comes back as one of the best tight ends in the country, Kyren Williams is one of the top running backs and a potential Heisman candidate, Braden Lenzy is finally healthy at receiver, and the defensive backfield is loaded, led by potential All-American Kyle Hamilton.

The Irish had a big position to fill this offseason as defensive coordinator Clark Lea left for the Vanderbilt head coaching job. He was replaced with Cincinnati’s Marcus Freeman.

Kelly has to get everyone ready for the opener at Florida State because that’s going to be a tough game to start the season, especially with a new quarterback leading the way.

What are the best, worst, and most likely scenarios for the 2021 season?

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