Notre Dame Football 2021: 25 Most Impactful Players, No. 20-16

Notre Dame Football 2021: 25 Most Impactful Players, No. 20-16

No. 18: Blake Fisher, Left Tackle

• High: 13, Low: Unranked

Coaches, scouts, and fans knew Avon (Ind.) offensive tackle Blake Fisher would flourish in South Bend, however, they did not realize that the true freshman will likely start at left tackle for the Fighting Irish in their opening game against Florida State. In fact, many commentators (including this writer) believed that Fisher might not even play tackle at the collegiate level.

But, Fisher’s spring performance surprised all, and with the absence of Jarrett Patterson, Fisher seized the left tackle position from older competitors like Tosh Baker.

Unless there is a massive shift in fall camp, Fisher will join an impressive list of recent tackles who started as a true freshman. In 2006, 5-star recruit Sam Young started at right tackle for the No. 2 Notre Dame football team against Georgia Tech. In 2017, true freshman Robert Hainsey split starting time with sophomore Tommy Kraemer.

In 2003, Ryan Harris moved into the starting role at left tackle and he was the last true freshman left tackle to start for the Fighting Irish.

Josh Lugg, Cain Madden, Zeke Correll, and Jarrett Patterson will likely join Fisher along the offensive line. Fellow freshman Rocco Spindler has a chance to unite with Fisher if he proves to be a better option at guard.

The impact that Fisher makes on the 2021 Notre Dame football could vary as much as the votes from the Slap the Sign staff. Fisher appears to be the real deal, however, left tackle is one of the most demanding positions in football, so expect ups and downs from Fisher in Year 1.