Evaluating the Depth: Notre Dame’s Quarterbacks

Oct 27, 2012; Norman, OK, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Everett Golson (5) scrambles with the ball in the first quarter against Oklahoma Sooners safety Javon Harris (30) at Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

In 2013 against Temple Everett Golson will be the starter unless unforeseen events happen. He took the bland, tasteless, and predictable Irish offense and made it a little more exciting as the season went on. He still has many areas to improve in, but he is now experienced and more confident. Golson threw for 2,405 yards with a 58.8 completion percentage with 12 touchdowns to only 6 interceptions. He adds to his game with his legs with 298 yards rushing and 6 touchdowns on the season. Next season look for Coach Kelly to open up the playbook a little more and let this guy free to make plays. Golson will be a redshirt sophomore.

I was a supporter of Tommy Rees when he replaced the disappointing Dayne Crist in 2011, but I will say I didn’t agree with sticking him in when Golson struggled. I was wrong and have to give credit to Rees for winning the Purdue game and also mentoring the young Golson into the quarterback the Irish needed.  Tommy will be a senior and more than likely the backup in 2013, but there is a guy that will contest that in Gunner Kiel. Rees will be a senior.

After holding a clipboard and signaling in plays all season Gunner Kiel will take off his redshirt and get his shot in 2013. I don’t think he will replace Golson, but I do think he will have a very good chance at backing him up. The Irish coaching staff and players rave about Kiel’s performances in practice and how he is just a playmaker plain and simple. Let’s just pray that he doesn’t transfer. Gunner will be a redshirt freshman.

Andrew Hendrix had a shot at the starting quarterback role in both 2011 and 2012, but still had trouble keeping his eyes downfield when a play broke down. I thought he would transfer after the 2012 season, but no word yet on his future. He is a very good athlete and mentor for young quarterbacks coming up through the system.  Hendrix will be a senior.

The freshman Malik Zaire has enrolled at the University of Notre Dame and is taking classes and is training for the upcoming football season. Zaire will play on the practice squad and be redshirted, but this is all expected. He is comparable to Everett Golson, but is a better runner and not as accurate as a passer, yet.

2013 Projected Depth Chart

Quarterback

Everett Golson

Tommy Rees/Gunner Kiel

Tommy Rees/Gunner Kiel

Andrew Hendrix

Malik Zaire