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Notre Dame Football: 5 takeaways from the Irish victory over Duke

By Matt Clark

SOUTH BEND, IN - NOVEMBER 23: Notre Dame Fighting Irish players run down the field following team introductions before a game against the Boston College Eagles at Notre Dame Stadium on November 23, 2019 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated Boston College 40-7. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - NOVEMBER 23: Notre Dame Fighting Irish players run down the field following team introductions before a game against the Boston College Eagles at Notre Dame Stadium on November 23, 2019 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated Boston College 40-7. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Notre Dame football (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images /

Michael Mayer & Chris Tyree impress

The 2020 recruiting class for the Notre Dame football team was highly touted and full of elite talent. Two of the top recruits from that recruiting class were true freshmen tight end Michael Mayer and running back Chris Tyree.

While both came in as 5-star recruits, they were expected to be used sparingly due to the level of experienced talent above them on the depth chart and because of Brian Kelly’s aversion to using true freshman in key roles.

Despite those facts, both Mayer and Tyree played prominent roles in Saturday’s game against the Duke Blue Devils. Mayer came up with catches in critical spots and tied Tommy Tremble for the most receiving yards by a Notre Dame tight end in the game with 38 yards. Meanwhile, Tyree finished second on the team in rushing yards with 20 and had four kick returns for 90 yards, including a long of 38 yards.

The impressive performances from these two true freshmen very well could lead to them seeing increased roles moving forward. Notre Dame is expected to be a contender for the National Championship and will need their best players on the field if they are going to do so.

There is no doubt that Mayer looks to be ready to step into the role vacated by Cole Kmet leaving for the National Football League. He is a dynamic big-bodied tight end who showed the ability to come down with big catches in critical points in the game.

In addition to being the main kick returner for the Irish, the explosive Tyree looks like he would be an excellent option to be the change of pace back to compliment Kyren Williams in the running game. His elusiveness and speed will play well for the Irish offense as he gains more experience.

Next. Notre Dame Football: Who was the defensive player of the game vs. Duke?. dark

Regardless of if and how much their roles increase as the season progresses, both Michael Mayer and Chris Tyree game Notre Dame football fans a glimpse into what they can provide for this team moving forward, and the future looks extremely bright

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