Notre Dame Football: Three bold predictions vs. New Mexico

Tony Jones Jr. dominates

There were questions about Notre Dame’s run game heading into the season opener. Those were quickly put to rest with a dominant offensive line leading the way.

Tony Jones Jr. took advantage and made the most out of what he was given. The running back racked up 110-yards, averaging 7.3 yards per carry and a touchdown.

The only thing standing in his way against New Mexico is how much playing time he’ll have.

The likelihood of this not being a close game would lead many to assume that Jones will spend the majority of this game on the sidelines, avoiding any possible injury to be prepared for Georgia.
But that option may no longer be available. Jafar Armstrong, who was expected to lead the way this year, is out after suffering an injury to the groin area. The next option to provide Jones with relief would be Jahmir Smith. But, it’s questionable if Smith will even be ready to go after spraining his toe in a scrimmage last week.

The best relief for Jones could come from Avery Davis, who was recruited as a dual-threat quarterback, made the move to running back, was switched over the cornerback position and now is being called back as a running back.

Don’t worry — we’re just as confused as you probably are.

If there is one thing you can take from all that, it’s that Davis is an athlete. While his time was short in his latest stint as a running back, he at least has a familiarity of the position.

With the comfort of knowing there is at least somebody to share carries with, Jones should be able to roll.

He’s the most experienced player in the position and will be eager to feed off of his strong performance vs. Louisville and dominate the Lobos.