Notre Dame football: Strong linebacker play to fuel Irish defense in 2022
By Brad Weiss
The Notre Dame football team will be deep and talented at linebacker in 2022, and they should be the fuel for what should be a special defense.
Back in January, we spoke about this Notre Dame football team on the defensive side of the ball, and how deep and talented the linebacker room should be. With a great mix of veteran guys, players who have played in huge games before, and younger prospects, the linebacker group for the Notre Dame football could be one of the best in the country.
Just one look at the current depth chart and it is easy to see that this is a group that should dominate weekly.
Multiple veteran players returned for another go-around, and the starting group will be loaded with players who have played in big-time bowl games, and even the College Football Playoff. Jack Kiser, Marist Liufau, JD Bertrand, and Bo Bauer have all been in some serious battles for the Irish, and they will be pressed to set the standard for some elite players behind them.
Jaylen Sneed, Prince Kollie, and Nolan Ziegler are just a few of the young and talented linebackers that give this team incredible depth, and they certainly have the right head coach to get the most out of their potential. When it comes to the linebacker position, there are few minds like Marcus Freeman, and that will go a long way in this unit being a problem for other teams in 2022.
Notre Dame football loaded on the defensive side of the ball
With an excellent pass rush, and some talented defensive backs, including two potential first-round picks in Brandon Joseph and Cam Hart, you have to like the Irish chances of being stifling on defense this year. In his first season at the helm, Freeman would like nothing more than to stack wins, and his first chance comes against his alma mater, Ohio State in Week 1.
On paper, the Notre Dame football team should be one of the best defenses in the country, as many of their starters have been in big situations in the past. There may be some question marks on offense, but when it comes to this defense, teams should be worried, including the Buckeyes.