Notre Dame football: 10 most important players in 2021

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SOUTH BEND, INDIANA – NOVEMBER 07: Running back Kyren Williams #23 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates after his first-quarter touchdown against the Clemson Tigers at Notre Dame Stadium on November 7, 2020, in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Matt Cashore-Pool/Getty Images) /

Notre Dame football: 10 most important players in 2021

3. Kyren Williams, Running Back

It’s no secret that Notre Dame football has questions in the passing game, which means they’re going to lean into their strength on offense, Kyren Williams, and the zone running game. And, while there is hope for someone like Chris Tyree or C’Bo Flemister to help carry the weight of the running game, everyone knows that Williams is going to be the workhorse.

Williams needs to be effective every game, and he will likely need to do so to set up the passing attack. If he doesn’t draw heavy boxes, it’s going to be almost impossible for Notre Dame’s receivers to consistently get open.

Add to that, Williams is going to be a key running back for Notre Dame in the pass blocking game, where he has proven to excel in the past. So, whether passing or running, Kyren Williams is going to be vital to the Notre Dame offense in 2021, and when all is said and done, he could end up being a first-team All-American.

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