Notre Dame Football: 5 Questions To Answer Before The Season

CHESTNUT HILL, MA - SEPTEMBER 16: Brandon Wimbush #7 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after rushing for a 65-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Boston College Eagles at Alumni Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images) /

6 of 6

MIAMI GARDENS, FL – NOVEMBER 11: Malik Rosier /

5. Can Jerry Tillery take the next step and become a truly elite defensive tackle?

Jerry Tillery has been a force on the defensive line for two years now, after seeing limited time on the field as a freshman. Last year was Tillery’s best season so far, as he recorded 56 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

As a sophomore and junior, Tillery was a very good-to-great player. As a senior, Tillery has some improvements to make if he wants to become elite. And with his new attitude, that might not be hard to accomplish.

Tillery — recently named to the Nagurski Award preseason watch list — is also playing for NFL scouts. He very well could end up being a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2019. With a big season, there’s no reason he can’t place himself into the Top 15 conversation.

Next. Know Your Enemy: The USC Trojans. dark

There’s a lot to play for on all ends. If Brian Kelly can get answers to these questions sooner rather than later, it could be a special season in South Bend.

Home/Notre Dame Football