With each passing week, Notre Dame shows that they strongly need to be considered for the NCAA Playoff. Quarterback Everett Golson also continued to make his case for a Heisman finalist Saturday against Syracuse with yet again another impressive performance against the Orange. Through four games this season, Golson has completed nearly 70 percent of his passes along with throwing for 11 touchdowns to just 2 interceptions (both coming this past week).
It’s clear that Golson, during his time off in 2013, put in time working on his mechanics and becoming more of a Quarterback and less of an “athlete”.
By: Michael Vahey
Against Syracuse, however, this may have been this sloppiest game to date, throwing his first two interceptions of the season (four total turnovers on the day). However, it was also an impressive day as he completed 25 consecutive passes, setting a Notre Dame record for consecutive completions while also throwing for 4 touchdowns on the day. It’s almost the personification of Golson, while he’s made significant strides as a passer; he still has plenty to clean up.
One thing is clear thus far in the season, Golson is running this Fighting Irish offense at a high level with great command. What’s most impressive is that he looks much more comfortable in the pocket, showing better composure and decision making overall (though against Syracuse he made several careless decisions leading to turnovers). Golson looks to have improved his basic mechanics, as he’s throwing the ball with better balance, better velocity, and improved accuracy. Golson’s biggest obstacle, as he makes the jump to the NFL, will be showing that he can improve as a passer and continue to make strides in his decision making in order to overcome his lack of height and overall size.
Other Scouting Notes
Nick Martin, OG/C, #72
Coming back from a knee injury at the end of last season, Martin started the season at C, his position last year and where he ended his sophomore year, but in an effort to improve their running game was moved to Left Guard against Syracuse. Martin has struggled with run blocking this season, which has been a theme for the entire Notre Dame Offensive Line. Martin is not a traditional road grader and relies on technique rather than power. Martin is not the athlete that his brother (and first round draft pick) Zack Martin was, but is intelligent and crafty.
Ben Koyack, TE, #18
Has great size combined with good athleticism. Had an untimely fumble against Syracuse, and hasn’t been producing earth shattering numbers. However, he’s passed his career high in receptions for a season through 4 games (which was previously 10). Shows ability to find open spots (was wide-open on Golson’s 1st interception) and use his big body for his advantage.
Suspension Update
Receiver DaVaris Daniels, cornerback KeiVarae Russell and defensive end Ishaq Williams, all starters, will miss at least another week (along with defensive backups Kendall Moore and Eilar Hardy) while Notre Dame reviews their academic standing.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
