Notre Dame Blue And Gold Game April 12, 2014

This was so vanilla on both sides of the ball that the really big news is that Field Turf will be installed following May graduation. According to Jack Swarbrick, it was just not feasible to continue with a grass playing surface. In addition, the condition of the field yesterday should have made all the old timers cringe. If anything, it spoke of the need for Field Turf, it was this visual. The field looked like an old time high school field and this is one of the Premier College Football names in the country. I’m 100% in favor of the decision. I would also like the ND logo on the 50 yard line.

The surface of the playing field not only got to Kelly but also to opposing coaches. Injuries due to divots, stuck cleats seemed to be mounting each year. The long passed change was way over due and that old promoter, showman Knute Rockne would have been leading the parade for this change.

The most interesting thing about this game was Malik Zaire. At least for the 1st half he seemed confident, poised and comfortable running the offense while, on the other hand, Golson seemed rusty and unfocused and for someone who spent a lot of time with a QB guru. His passing left a lot to be desired.

If someone unfamiliar with ND football tuned into this game no doubt they would think that Zaire was the number 1 QB. I was impressed with him more than I expected. Both guys need a lot more work and regardless who starts against Rice, this guy Zaire should see a lot of quality minutes or he’ll be gone next year.

I don’t know if it was crummy camera work but I had a hard time determining who all these guys were – 1st or 2nd teamers and the announcers were not very helpful. They knew the 3 RB’s and Receivers but not much else.

I like this new DC – VanGorder and was happy to learn that he will be on the sidelines directing the defense and not up in a booth dreaming up big concepts. In yesterday’s scrimmage the “D” got to the QB’s a lot. You simply can’t win football games admiring the opposition QB’s passing the ball. You need pressure and more pressure and Van Gorder seems to get it.

So we just wait for August and in case you missed the scrimmage here’s a highlight clip from Watch ND.