Notre Dame Football: 5 Position Battles To Watch During Fall Camp
By Andrew Hall
Aug 9, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey (68) and center Nick Martin (72) run a drill during practice at the LaBar Practice Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
3. Mike McGlinchey vs. Connor Hanratty vs. Quenton Nelson
This is a somewhat confusing position battle. Basically, it can be summed it in one question. Who are the best five Offensive Linemen on Notre Dame’s roster?
Ronnie Stanley, Nick Martin and Christian Lombard already secured their positions along the Offensive Linemen. This means the Left Tackle, Center and Right Guard positions are nailed down.
Mike McGlinchey is attempting to lock down the Right Tackle position. He did not see action during his Freshman year. McGlinchey possesses great size for the tackle position. He checks in at 6’7.5” and 300 lbs.
If McGlinchey does not solidify his position as the Right Tackle, Elmer will undoubtedly move out to Right Tackle. The second-year player appeared in 10 games and made 4 starts. If McGlinchey solidifies the Right Tackle position then Elmer will start at Left Guard and the Offensive Line will be set.
However, if Elmer is forced to move outside, that will create a battle for the Left Guard position. Conor Hanratty, son of former Notre Dame Quarterback Terry Hanratty, started four games at both Guard positions in 2013. He would be an easy pick for the remaining Offensive Linemen. But, Notre Dame has one of the most college-ready Offensive Linemen arriving on campus this summer in Quenton Nelson. The former 5-star recruit could push for playing time at the Left Guard slot.
The safest equation for Notre Dame will be to start (left to right) Ronnie Stanley, Conor Hanratty, Nick Martin, Christian Lombard and Steve Elmer. All players possess great talent and experience.