3 Notre Dame football players to watch in 2024: Catalysts for Fighting Irish success

As the 2024 season kicks off, Notre Dame football fans have plenty of reasons to be excited. The Fighting Irish are once again poised to make a strong run, and their success will hinge on the performance of several key players. While the team boasts a wealth of talent across the board, three individuals stand out as pivotal to the Blue and Gold's 2024 campaign.

Notre Dame football offensive catalyst: Kris Mitchell, WR

Notre Dame’s 2024 offense is filled with potential, and Kris Mitchell is poised to be the engine that drives it. Transferring in from Florida International University (FIU), Mitchell brings a dynamic skill set to the Irish receiving corps. Known for his speed, crisp route running, and ability to make plays after the catch, Mitchell is exactly the kind of explosive playmaker Notre Dame needs to stretch defenses and open up the field.

Why Kris Mitchell matters

Notre Dame fans have been waiting for their wide receiver room to return to a level of production and explosive playmaking they haven’t seen since the days of Will Fuller, Golden Tate, and Jeff Samardzija. This group is deep and needs to stay healthy, but they have a shot at being one of the better units Notre Dame has fielded in recent years.

The key will be Kris Mitchell’s consistency and his ability to serve as a reliable option for Leonard. Mitchell’s impact goes beyond just his ability to make highlight-reel plays. He provides the deep threat that can keep opposing defenses honest, preventing them from stacking the box against Notre Dame’s rushing attack.

His presence on the field demands attention, which opens up opportunities for other receivers in that deep room—not just for the running game with Love and Price, but also for Leonard’s legs.

How he will help the Irish succeed

With veteran quarterback Riley Leonard at the helm, Mitchell has the perfect partner to maximize his talents. If Mitchell can consistently create separation and become a reliable target, he will not only rack up big plays but also make the entire offense more efficient. Look for him to be the go-to guy in critical situations, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

The defensive fortress: Howard Cross III, DT

Every great defense starts in the trenches, and for Notre Dame, Howard Cross III is the cornerstone of their defensive line. Returning for another season, Cross has already established himself as one of the most formidable defensive tackles in college football. Named to the Bednarik Award watch list, his ability to disrupt the opponent’s backfield and clog running lanes makes him a nightmare for any offensive line.

Why Howard Cross III matters

Cross’s importance to the Irish defense cannot be overstated. He started all 13 games last season and recorded 66 tackles, making him the linchpin of the defense upfront. He’s the type of player who makes everyone around him better. His ability to occupy multiple blockers frees up the linebackers to make plays and allows the edge rushers to focus on getting to the quarterback. Cross’s leadership and experience also provide a steadying presence on the field, especially in high-pressure situations.

How he will help the Irish succeed

For Notre Dame to dominate defensively, it all starts with controlling the line of scrimmage. Cross will be key in stopping the run and forcing opponents into obvious passing situations, where the Irish can unleash their pass rush. If Cross can continue to be a disruptive force in the middle, Notre Dame’s defense has the potential to be one of the best in the country, anchoring the team’s push for a playoff spot.

Notre Dame football X-Factor: Jeremiyah Love, RB

Jeremiyah Love is the kind of player who can change the course of a game in an instant. As a versatile running back with a rare combination of speed, power, and elusiveness, Love is poised to break out in 2024. Whether he’s coming out of the backfield or catching passes in the flats, Love has the ability to make an impact in multiple facets of the game.

Why Jeremiyah Love matters

In an offense that thrives on versatility and unpredictability, Love is the perfect X-factor. His ability to break long runs and make defenders miss in open space adds a dangerous element to the Notre Dame offense. Love’s versatility also makes him a matchup nightmare for defenses, as he can line up anywhere on the field and make plays. This offseason, he cross-trained at receiver and added weight to reach 210 pounds. This combination of strength and speed is a deadly combination for defenders.

How he will help the Irish succeed

Love’s big-play potential means that he can change the momentum of a game with just one touch. If he can consistently deliver explosive plays, he will not only put points on the board but also provide the spark this Irish offense needs. Love’s role as a game-changer could be the difference in tight contests, especially against top-tier opponents where one play can make all the difference—they just need to get Love the ball!

As Notre Dame football begins the 2024 season, the performances of Kris Mitchell, Howard Cross III, and Jeremiyah Love will be crucial to the team's success. Mitchell’s ability to stretch the field, Cross’s dominance in the trenches, and Love’s game-changing explosiveness provide Notre Dame with the tools needed to compete at the highest level. As long as these players stay healthy and live up to their potential, the Fighting Irish could be looking at a special season that ends with a playoff berth and perhaps even more. Keep an eye on these stars as they lead Notre Dame in their quest for glory in 2024.