Brian Kelly Media Conference Leaves Irish Fans Ready For Fifth Victory
By Walt Kosin
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Brian Kelly Met With The Media On Sunday To Wrap Up Notre Dame’s Win Over UMass
The Notre Dame offense ran like a well-oiled machine in the Fighting Irish’s 62-27 win over Massachusetts. The defense gave up three first half touchdowns, but settled down in the second half as the Irish ran their record to 4-0 for the season. Brian Kelly addressed many issues during his Sunday news conference.
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It appears that the Fighting Irish finally played a game with no serious injuries. Brian Kelly was asked about Corey Robinson’s knee injury and stated that there was no damage to his knee and he will be able to practice on Tuesday. Hopefully, the Irish are done losing players to season-ending injuries.
When asked about the play of cornerbacks KeiVarae Russell and Cole Luke, he admitted that the two corners were not always challenging throws. Kelly acknowledges they both have to be more consistent in challenging throws and in being more aggressive.
Brian Kelly also commented on the play of Max Redfield and Nick Coleman. Because of the cast on Redfield’s arm, there is concern about his ability to tackle. Kelly was encouraged by the play of Coleman, stating “We really like Nick. He’s got speed. He’s got great competitiveness. Plays the ball well in the air but his technique is not where we need it to be.”
On the play of Greet Martini, Kelly referred to him as a really smart player who is involved in a sub package in passing situations. Martini plays an important role on special teams.
Brian Kelly completed his comments on defensive players by stating that back-up safety Avery Sebastian will probably be out for another three or four weeks with his foot injury.
An encouraging statement by Kelly for Fighting Irish fans was when he said how personally close the four quarterbacks were. They spend a lot of time together and constantly encourage one another. Currently, the injured Malik Zaire attends every quarterbacks meeting and is in the locker room pre-game and post-game. Malik encourages the quarterbacks during practice and helps them in any way he can. For the Irish to make a run at the college playoff, this type of togetherness will be beneficial, especially during the tough times every team goes through during the season.
Concerning Josh Adams as a back-up running back to C.J. Prosise, Brian Kelly feels Josh as “done a great job. Not only did he run for over a hundred yards; he picked up two blitzes for us that were very difficult reads for him.”
Fans should to be excited about the running game with C. J. Prosise and Josh Adams along with Dexter Williams as back-up. This, along with the great play of the offensive line, bolds well for the Fighting.
Tight-end Tyler Luatua did not play on Saturday because of a concussion. Kelly was impressed with freshman Alizé Jones, the blocking of Chase Hounshell, and the overall play of Nic Weishar. Luatua’s concussion was his second in the last year. Kelly said the medical staff will be very cautious in evaluating him and determining when he will return to action.
Notre Dame’s 2015 journey takes them to Clemson next Saturday night against the 12th ranked Tigers. If the Irish can play error-free ball, they can secure a very meaningful win that will put them in a strong position for the college playoff.