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Notre Dame Football: Clark Lea is the top HC target at Vanderbilt

By Jack Leniart

Sep 29, 2018; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive coordinator Clark Lea watches warmups before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 29, 2018; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive coordinator Clark Lea watches warmups before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /
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Clark Lea has been outstanding as the defensive coordinator for Notre Dame football, but he could be moving on this offseason.

Multiple reports today have stated that Notre Dame football defensive coordinator Clark Lea has emerged as the top target for the Vanderbilt head coaching job. Lea grew up in the Nashville area and played football at Vanderbilt in the early 2000s, so once Vanderbilt decided to fire their previous head coach Derek Mason, everyone thought Lea would at the very least be interviewed for the job.

The reports that have been shared thus far have not stated that this is a done deal. However, the writing on the wall seems to indicate that Lea will take the job. Lea has quickly become one of the most respected defensive coordinators in college football.

Just this year, he was nominated for the Broyles Awards, which honors the top assistant coaches in the country. Two weeks ago, we discussed the fact that Lea was coaching his way into becoming a head coach, and that appears to be moving closer to becoming a reality.

Notre Dame dominant under Lea

Among teams in the Power 5 conferences, the Notre Dame defense under Lea this season ranked 15th in pass yards per attempt allowed, ninth in rush yards per attempt allowed, and third in points per game allowed. That alone will get you a spot on a list of candidates for an open head coaching job.

I am certain all Notre Dame fans will heartbroken to see Lea depart. During his time at Notre Dame, he earned praise from coaches, players, and fans. It seemed virtually impossible to find someone who had something bad to say about him.

Brian Kelly saw Lea’s potential when he decided to promote him to defensive coordinator following the 2017 season. Lea’s performance the past three seasons has proven Kelly right.

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A tough road awaits Clark Lea as he takes control over a football program that has been a perpetual doormat in the SEC. Though the odds may be somewhat stacked against him, I would not bet against Lea.

Kelly has stated that he expects Lea to coach the remainder of the postseason for Notre Dame. The Irish are currently preparing for the ACC Championship Game, and they also have a strong case for the College Football Playoff.

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