Notre Dame Football: 3 Biggest Storylines vs Stanford

DEX IS BACK

After being sidelined the first four weeks by an unofficial four-game suspension stemming from a violation of team rules last season, all reports indicate that running back Dexter Williams will be back in action this week.

It is extremely exciting to think of how much the Irish offense can improve with Williams in the backfield alongside Armstrong and Jones Jr. While the current running back by committee system has worked well to start the season, Notre Dame needs Dex to turn it up and progress to be successful moving forward.

Outside of being another weapon for this offense, Williams has the ability to turn into the homerun hitter — the guy who can take a handoff at any time throughout the game and create a big play that shifts momentum. Last season he had 41 touches for 373 yards and five touchdowns.

That is an average of one touchdown every eight touches.

The addition of Williams with Armstrong and Jones Jr really opens up the running game and can help Notre Dame play to each back’s strengths. Armstrong  can be used as a slot in more passing situations, creating mismatches with linebackers. Jones Jr. can continue being a productive, down-hill runner, and Williams is your do-it-all guy. All three of them have the ability to make plays when they have the ball in their hands, and it is exciting to think about how much higher the ceiling can be for this offense with Williams back.

I’m not going to make any predictions on how much Williams will play — maybe he will be on a controlled snap count — maybe he is full-go and plays most of the game. Regardless, when he is on the field Saturday, he has the ability to change the game at any time.