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1. 2009 Weekly Scores and Schedules

   05/15/09 14:51:27 | 0 Comments

   SCHEDULES AND RESULTS
   2009 Weekly Schedule: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9
   2009 Weekly Scores
   Playoff Point Average Summary
   
   
   
   

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2. Notre Dame Football Recruiting Needs for the Class of 2010 ... 04/06/2009

   04/06/09 14:34:39 | 0 Comments

   Updated 04/06/2009

   
   

   The 2010 class for Notre Dame looks to feature 24+ athletes based on my scholarship breakdown.
   
   Quarterback (1-2)
   After passing on taking a QB in the class of 2009, the Irish will look to take two (2) QBs out of the class of 2010. At this point Jake Heaps (WA), Nick Montana (CA) and Austin Hinder appear to be the main targets. There's some speculation(hope) that Nick Montana may commit at the Blue and Gold game.
   
   Targets: Jake Heaps (WA), Nick Montana (CA), Austin Hinder (CO)
   
   Commits: None
   
   RB/FB (2-3)
   A program can never have enough quality runningbacks. Even after hauling in 4 and 5 star RBs the past couple years the Irish have still not found that "go-to" every down back they desire. In all due fairness to the backs, the offensive line shares most of the blame. With only one (1) fullback (and part time James Aldridge) on the current roster I look for Notre Dame take two (2) rb and one (1) fb in the class of 2010.
   
   Targets: Giovanni Bernard (FL), Michael Dyer (AR), Jordan James (CA), FB Zach Zwinaka (MD)
   
   Commits: None
   
   Wide Receiver (3)
   A position of strength for the Irish, the Irish look to bring in three (3) more quality athletes. With Robby Parris, George West and Barry Gallup likely going into their last season in 2009, Notre Dame needs to maintain the current level of depth and even increase the quality.
   
   Targets: Kadron Boone (FL), Brandon Coleman (MD), Corey Cooper (IL), Bennet Jackson (NJ), Tai-ler Jones (GA), Justin McCay (KS), Kyle Prater (IL),
   
   Commits: Daniel Smith (video)
   
   Tight End (0-1)
   Another position of strength. Whether or not players such as Jake Golic and Tyler Eiffert actually end up at Tight Ends may determine where the staff wants to go with this position. I would recruit hard for one elite Tight End, if unable to secure a legit 4-5 star Tight End I believe it would be wise to save this scholarship for another position.
   
   Targets: C.J. Fiedorowicz (IL)
   
   Commits: None
   
   Offensive Line (4)
   With three (3) players with starting experience (Young, Duncan and Olson) moving on after the 2009 season, I believe it would be wise to stock up on as many quality OL as possible. I'm saying AT LEAST four (4) in the class of 2010. OT Seantrel Henderson out of MN looks like the francise LT that the Irish are looking for.
   
   Targets: Brent Benedict (FL), Chaz Green (FL), Seantrel Henderson (MN), James Hurst (IN), Matt James (OH), Erik Kohler (CA), Brandon Linder (FL), Mark Shuman (VA), James Stone (TN).
   
   Commits: Christian Lombard
   
   Defensive Tackle (2)
   With no DTs moving on after the 2009 season, the Irish look to stockpile more unproven talenent at the DT position. I believe the Irish need to hit a homerun and make sure at least one of the DTs in the class are in that 5-star "elite" category. With the loss of Denzel McCoy I don't see another DT target with an offer currently.
   
   Target:
   
   Commits: None
   
   Strongside Defensive End (2-3)
   With Morrice Richardson, Kallen Wade and Paddy Mullen all potentially being gone after 2009, Notre Dame needs to bring in at least 2 strongside DE type players to back up and compete with Ethan Johnson.
   
   Targets: Darryl Baldwin (OH), T.J. Clemmings (NJ), J.R. Ferguson (MD), Jackson Jeffcoat (TX), Corey Lemonier (FL), Blake Lueders (IN), Brandon Willis (SC),
   
   Commits: None

   
   

   Weakside Defense End (1-2)

   Current commit Chris Martin looks like the ideal candidate to become a dominant player at this position. With all due respect to Manti Te'o, if/when Martin signs or enrolls at Notre Dame, this will be the biggest defensive impact player ND has recruited in years. Aside from Martin I would like to bring in (1-2) other player at this position

   
   

   Targets: Chance Carter (IL), Corey Miller (SC), Owamagbe Odighizuwa (OR), Prince Shembo (NC), Dakota Royer (PA),

   
   

   Commits: Chris Martin (CA)

   
   
   Outside Linebacker (2)
   There's a lot of unproven talent on this roster at the OLB position, aside from moving Brian Smith to OLB, it could be hit or miss at OLB for the 2009 season. With his overall athletic ability, Anthony Barr could be the dream prospect at this position.
   
   Targets: Anthony Barr (CA), V.J. Fehoko (HI), Khairi Fortt (CT), Jordan Hicks (OH), Tony Jefferson (CA), Shaun Lewis (TX),
   
   Commits: None
   
   Inside Linebacker (2)
   It will be interesting to see if the Irish can land a big time player to compete 2-3 years down the road with Te'o.. With a lot of talented underclassmen and only junior Brian Smith being a proven player, it would be wise to continue to bring in more competition at the ILB position.
   
   Targets: Caleb Lavey (TX), Jeff Luc (FL)
   
   Commits: None
   
   Corner (2)
   With Rasheon McNeil moving on after 2009 and even though Blanton, Slaugheter, etc. show a lot of potential, you can never have enough corners. I would bring in at least two (2) corners in the class of 2010.
   
   Targets: Spencer Boyd (FL), Lamarcus Joyner (FL), Cody Riggs (FL), Lo Wood (FL),
   
   Commits: None
   
   Safety (1-2)
   With Sergio Brown and Kyle McCarthy playing out their eligibility after 2009, it really hurt losing out on both Moore and Starling to USC. Without at least (2) freshmen S coming in for the 2010 season, the Irish will be very light at the S position with Harrison Smith and Dan McCarthy being the only real options.
   
   Targets: David Amerson (NC), Sean Parker (CA)
   
   Commits: None
   
   Special Teams (0)
   With a K, P and Long Snapper in the 2009 class I would hold off a year or two recruiting special teams.
   
   Targets: None
   
   Commits: None
   
   * This list is fluid and will be updated as more information is gathered.....and updated here.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

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3. MHSAA Enrollments for 2009-10 Topic ...

   03/27/09 20:24:46 | 0 Comments

   
   
   2009 MHSAA Enrollments
   
   My comments/observations/questions
   
   + OLSM is the largest Class B school in 2009 ... do they choose to "play up" to D2 or stay in D3?
   + Inkster at 1,133 is nearly the projected 1,200 ... but they will be D2 in 2009
   +
   

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4. NFL: "Quarterbacks are not football players" ...

   03/25/09 09:56:33 | 0 Comments

   Ok ... so maybe that's not a real quote ... but that's what I got out of the article regarding changes to NFL rules
   

   
   Defenders who are knocked to the ground no longer can lunge into quarterbacks if the play is still going on.

   
   
   I say we take it a step further and classify a passing QB such as a punter... no more QB sacks ... defensive players are now to take an angle as to try to block the pass as they would a punt, as opposed to going directly for the QB.
   
   

   _The initial force of a blindside block can't be delivered by a helmet, forearm or shoulder to an opponent's head or neck. An illegal blindside block will bring a 15-yard penalty.

   _Initial contact to the head of a defenseless receiver also will draw a 15-yard penalty.

   "Our clear movement is to getting out of the striking in the head area," Pereira said. "We're reading about injuries that say spinal and vertebrae. We've got to try something."

   _On kickoffs, no blocking wedge of more than two players will be allowed. A 15-yard penalty will go to a violating team.

   _Also on kickoffs, the kicking team can't have more than five players bunched together pursuing an onside kick. It will be a 5-yard penalty

   
   
   No blocking wedge on a kick return? huh
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

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5. Additions to the MHSAA Record Book from the 2008 season...

   03/24/09 14:39:02 | 0 Comments

   MHSAA Record Book
   
   Points Scored (Season)
   379 - Kirk Elsworth, Goodrich (12) (2004) 52 TDs, 2 Two-Pt Conversions, 2 Field Goals, 57 PATs
   306 - Tim Shaw, Livonia Clarenceville (14 games) (2001)
   288 - Tim Shaw, Livonia Clarenceville (13) (2000)
   282 - Tom Tyson, Whittemore-Prescott (13) (1994)
   274 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling (9) (2008) 35 TD's, 32 - 2 pt. Conversions
   
   Longest Field Goal
   Record is 59 yards
   53 - Shane Lyons, Plainwell vs. Otsego (10-24-2008)
   
   PAT's in a season
   Record is 72
   58 - Dave Brown, Sterling Heights Stevenson (58-60) (2008)
   
   Passing Yards in a Game
   Game (Minimum 400)
   525 - George Royce, Chelsea vs. Farmington Hills Harrison (19 for 26) (11-1-2003)
   507 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling vs. Boyne City (40-74) (10-24-08)
   494 - Nick Freeman, Gaylord vs. Mt. Pleasant (25 for 46) (10-27-2007)
   489 - Derrick Hacias, Grosse Pointe South vs. Port Huron Northern (29 for 57) (10-14-2005)
   465 - John Breasbois, Merrill vs. Traverse City St. Francis (31 for 50) (11-20-1999)
   461 - Damon Dowdell, Detroit Henry Ford vs. Troy (34 for 52) (11-7-1998)
   454 - Joe Davis, Pottersville vs. Fowler (19 for 31) (9-9-05)
   452 - David Moore, Ypsilanti Willow Run vs. Dearborn Heights Annapolis (26 of 42) (9-1-2001)
   450 - Cullen Finnerty, Brighton vs. Grand Ledge (15 for 27) (10-30-1999)
   444 - Sam Schweihofer, St. Clair vs. Marine City (26 for 46) (9-12-2003)
   439 - Ryan Morley, Grand Blanc vs. White Lake Lakeland (27-37) (9-1-2008)
   438 - Torry Taylor, Covert vs. New Buffalo (30 for 48) (9-17-2004)
   432 - Mike Waddell, Middleville Thornapple Kellogg vs. Hamilton (16 for 34) (10-10-1975)
   431 - Jason Fracassa, Sterling Heights Stevenson vs. Grosse Pointe South (21 for 32) (9-19-2008)
   
   Passing Yards in a Season
   3,776 - John Breasbois, Merrill (??? for 386/13 games) (1999)
   3,353 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (225 for 350/12) (2001)
   3,353 - Jason Fracassa, Sterling Heights Stevenson (210 for 350/ 12) (2008)
   3,224 - Greg Sidebottom, Mio (203 for 334/13) (1997)
   3,146 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling (9 games) (2008)
   3,103 - Brent Combs, Burton Bendle (2005)
   2,930 - Chad Alger, DeWitt (164 for 290/14) (2002)
   2,870 - Carlton Brewster, Grand Rapids Creston (174 for 312/14) (1999)
   2,799 - Nate Smith, Battle Creek Harper Creek (188 for 342/12) (2006)
   2,729 - John Hutchinson, Onsted (181 for 308/13) (1993)
   2,681 - Josh Rouhan, Howard City Tri County (182 for 336/11) (2004)
   2,653 - Nick Freeman, Gaylord (155 for 274/9) (2007)
   2,634 - Mark Catlin, Lowell (188 for 358/14 games) (2002)
   2,629 - Rob Dancer, Britton-Macon (159 for 324/11) (1990)
   2,609 - Dustin Kestner, Saginaw Nouvel (130 for 195/12) (2004)
   2,603 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (182 for 311/11) (2000)
   2,593 - Dustin Mayner, Linden (140 for 227/11) (2006)
   2,589 - Dave von Behren, Frankenmuth (153 for 279/9) (1974)
   2,584 - Nick Moeller, Saline (2008)
   2,579 - Ryan Karolak, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (174 for 301/11) (2003)
   2,537 - Brek Trevino, Hudsonville (180 for 281/13) (2003)
   2,510 - T.J. VanDoren, Brighton (227 for 354/13) (2005)
   2,508 - Nate Smith, Battle Creek Harper Creek (137 for 238/11) (2005)
   2,478 - Steve Brander, Jenison (202 for 333/10) (2002)
   2,435 - John Thomas, Utica Eisenhower (162 for 275/11) (1993)
   2,364 - Joe Davis, Pottersville (138 for 261/10) (2005)
   2,353 - Tyler Sessions, Fennville (173 for 311/12) (2004)
   2,344 - Darren Tooley, Lake Orion (187 for 325/12) (1998)
   2,336 - Chris Cooley, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (192 for 336/10) (2004)
   2,332 - Ryan Lavictoire, Mt. Morris (147 for 261/9) (1991)
   2,325 - Mike Tyler, Fremont (157 for 310/11) (2000)
   2,313 - Austin Cole, Grass Lake, (142-for-250/14) (2006)
   2,307 - Cody Marks, Linden (164 for 257) (2008)
   
   Passing Attempts in a Season
   438 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling (9 Games) (2008)
   386 - John Breasbois, Merrill (13 games) (1999)
   358 - Mark Catlin, Lowell (14) (2002)
   354 - T.J. VanDoren, Brighton (13) (2005)
   350 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (12) (2001)
   350 - Jason Fracassa, Sterling Heights Stevenson (2008)
   
   Pass Completions in a Season
   234 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling (9 Games) (2008)
   227 - T.J. VanDoren, Brighton (13 games) (2005)
   225 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (12) (2001)
   210 - Jason Fracassa, Sterling Heights Stevenson (12) (2008)
   203 - Greg Sidebottom, Mio (13) (1997)
   202 - Steve Brander, Jenison (10) (2002)
   192 - Chris Cooley, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (10) (2004)
   188 - Mark Catlin, Lowell (14) (2002)
   188 - Nate Smith, Battle Creek Harper Creek (12) (2006)
   187 - Darren Tooley, Lake Orion (12) (1998)
   182 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (11) (2000)
   182 - Josh Rouhan, Howard City Tri County (11) (2004)
   181 - John Hutchinson, Onsted (13) (1993)
   180 - Brek Trevino, Hudsonville (13) (2003)
   175 - Nick Moeller, Saline (2008)
   174 - Carlton Brewster, Grand Rapids Creston (14) (1999)
   174 - Ryan Karolak, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (11) (2003)
   173 - Tyler Sessions, Fennville (12) (2004)
   169 - Nate Botsis, Holland (9) (1994)
   168 - Darren Tooley, Lake Orion (12) (1998)
   164 - Chad Alger, DeWitt (14) (2002)
   164 - Cody Marks, Linden (2008)
   
   Passing TD in a Season
   37 - Josh Brehm, Ithaca (12 games) (2001)
   36 - Greg Sidebottom, Mio (13 games) (1997)
   36 - John Breasbois, Merrill (13) (1999)
   36 - Ryan Karolak, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (11) (2003)
   35 - Brek Trevino, Hudsonville (13) (2003)
   35 - Brent Combs, Burton Bendle (11) (2005)
   34 - Dustin Kestner, Saginaw Nouvel (12) (2004)
   34 - Jason Fracassa, Sterling Heights Stevenson (12) (2008)
   32 - Darren Tooley, Lake Orion (12) (1998)
   32 - Dustin Mayner, Linden (11) (2006)
   32 - Jimmy Osga, Grayling (9 games) (2008)
   
   Rec Yards in a Game
   Record is 341
   231 - D.J Mershman, Sterling Heights Stevenson vs. Grosse Pointe South (9) (9-19-2008)
   
   Rec Yards in a Season
   1,676 - J.T. Jones, Ithaca (93 catches/12 games) (2001)
   1,658 - Matt LaFreniere, Burton Bendle (84/11) (2005)
   1,457 - J.T. Jones, Ithaca (75/11) (2000)
   1,424 - Elvin Jones, Ferndale (65/11) (1996)
   1,403 - Evan Kourtjian, Saline (2008)
   
   Receptions in a Season
   93 - J.T. Jones, Ithaca (1,676 yards/12 games) (2001)
   86 - Mike Koster, Lowell (1,305/14) (2002)
   85 - Dominique Douglas, Detroit Murray-Wright (1,011/12) (2005)
   84 - Matt LaFreniere, Burton Bendle (1,658/11) (2005)
   84 - Evan Kourtjian, Saline (2008)
   82 - Brendan Howe, Grosse Pointe South (1,016/9) (2005)
   78 - Frank Zombo, Sterling Heights Stevenson (1,185/14) (2004)
   78 - Zach Nichols, Brighton (878/13) (2005)
   75 - J.T. Jones, Ithaca (1,457/11) (2000)
   75 - Mike Koster, Lowell (12) (2003)
   75 - Jimmy Saros, Grosse Pointe South (986/9) (2006)
   73 - Brian Kann, Mio (1,277/13) (1997)
   72 - Eric Laskovy, Paw Paw (8) (1992)
   72 - Ben Bergmann, Charlevoix (908/9) (2004)
   71 - Boomer Hoppough, Ionia (918/9) (1998)
   70 - Mike Hoard, Millington (12) (1994)
   70 - Josh Proulx, Center Line St. Clement (9) (1999)
   70 - Heath Johnson, Fremont (9) (2001)
   70 - Kyle Miller, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood (1,056/10) (2002)
   69 - Dan Elmore, Trenton (1,103/10) (2003)
   68 - Alan Bellile, Saginaw St. Andrew (9) (1965)
   68 - Chris Barnett, Genesee (1,029) (1992)
   68 - Joe Danna, Midland (906/12) (1994)
   67 - Chris Barnett, Genesee (1,079) (1991)
   67 - Colby Skelton, Chelsea (1,167/10) (1993)
   67 - Lance Mortimer, Croswell-Lexington (575/10) (2004)
   67 - Jimmy Saros, Grosse Pointe South (717/9) (2005)
   67 - D.J Mershman, Sterling Heights Stevenson (12) (2008)
   
   TD Receptions in a Season
   26 - J.T. Jones, Ithaca (12 games) (2001)
   21 - Tom Garner, Utica Eisenhower (11 games) (1990)
   21 - D.J Mershman, Sterling Heights Stevenson (12) (2008)
   
   Points Scored in a Season
   774 - Muskegon Orchard View, 1999 (13-1-0), 55.3 points per game average
   667 - East Kentwood, 2002 (13-1-0), 47.6 ppg
   663 - Lowell, 2004 (14-0-0) 47.4 ppg
   650 - Constantine, 2004 (13-1-0), 46.4 ppg
   642 - Gaylord St. Mary, 1999 (13-1-0), 45.9 ppg
   631 - Climax-Scotts, 2004 (14-0-0), 45.1 ppg
   630 - Farmington Hills Harrison, 2001 (14-0-0), 45.0 ppg
   625 - Ubly, 2008
   
   
   

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6. MichiganPreps.com had their combine over the weekend ...

   03/20/09 15:21:50 | 0 Comments

   Looks like they had a nice turnout ... a lot of good local players on the list.
   
   I read an article where they really wanted to do things right and post accurate times and such ... and it looks like they did as I don't see any unbelievable times/results. Check MichiganPreps.com for the results.
   
   

   It's very easy to get your MichiganPreps.com Combine Results. Here's how:
   
   At the top left of the main page (www.michiganpreps.rivals.com) click on "Welcome new user 7-Day Free Trial." That will take you to a page that looks like you're signing up for a subscription to MichiganPreps.com. You need to fill that form out completely as though you are signing up including your name, address, and credit card information - don't worry, it's not being billed right now because you have a coupon code for a 30-day subscription.
   
   You will also create login information with a username and password. On this form is a spot to for Gift Certificate or Promotional Code. Type in "mipreps" in that spot, and you will have access to everything for 30 days. If you don't want to continue your subscription, simply cancel within 30 days.
   
   All of the results are available in the Premium Message Board called "The Huddle." Go to the "Message Boards" section of the site, click on "The Huddle" and you'll see the results in a big spreadsheet with nearly 500 athletes.
   
   This is a MASSIVE database of the best football players in Michigan, so you won't want to miss it.
   
   If you have any questions, please e-mail (don't call) George Yarberry at gyarberry@sbcglobal.net. Enjoy.

   
   
   I'll share this much ... browsing the list of what looks like a couple hundred athletes .. looks like less than 10 ran faster than a 4.5 in the 40.
   
   
   

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7. Weis on some spring issues ...

   03/20/09 13:30:26 | 0 Comments

   March 20, 2009

   Weis ready to spring forward

   Pete Sampson
   IrishIllustrated.com Editor

   For Notre Dame to get back up, its football coach will stay down. Of all the topics Charlie Weis addressed Friday in his welcome back to practice press conference, what generated the most chatter was his choice of location to call plays next season. After internal consideration and external consultation, the verdict is in. Weis will stay on the sidelines next season instead of returning to the press box where he pulled strings in Notre Dame's blowout of Hawaii. That means recreating that success will require more innovation from the Irish coach, whose fifth spring practice schedule kicks off this afternoon. "My intent is to coach the game from the field, that's my intent," Weis said. "(Bill) Parcells said years ago, 'I reserve the right to change my mind.' But that's my intent. By a very, very, very large majority almost everyone I talked to were overwhelmingly thinking that I was thinking way outside the box." So Weis won't call plays from inside one. With that seemingly settled, the coach can get to work on making Hawaii Bowl performances more regular around South Bend. That requires meshing his shuffled staff that added Tom Verducci, Tony Alford and Randy Hart and flipped lead defensive coordinator duties from Corwin Brown to Jon Tenuta. With the heavy re-titling and press box debate, the concern of too many cooks in the kitchen seemed plausible. "Oh no, there's one cook," Weis said. "You can erase that vision. There's one you. There's some helpers. Let's get that out of the way now." Regardless of who's calling what shot from where, it's the players that need to grow up the most. The Irish return starting experience at every position on offense but fullback, although that's a possibility too if James Aldridge shifts there. The line returns five players with extensive first team experience plus Trevor Robinson, who will be limited during spring ball. Weis said that if healthy, Robinson could have been a candidate at left tackle, which now turns into a race between Matt Romine and Paul Duncan. The best spring competition on offense might be receiver, where Deion Walker and John Goodman will vie with Duval Kamara and Robby Parris for reps. The fact Golden Tate will attend only five practices (including the Blue-Gold Game) opens up the race further. The Irish will practice without full pads Friday and Saturday before the real fun begins Monday. When that happens the defense will take the field in a traditional 4-3 front, ditching last year's nomenclature along the way. The opening depth chart listed Kapron Lewis-Moore, Ethan Johnson, Ian Williams and John Ryan as the starting line with Zeke Motta, Brian Smith and Steve Filer as the first-team linebackers. However, those ranks will be fluid with Kerry Neal and Darius Fleming sidelined by injury. Neal remains at defensive end with Fleming shifted to linebacker where Motta is listed as the starter. At cornerback, Robert Blanton and Raeshon McNeil are the starter with Harrison Smith and Sergio Brown at safety. However, the opening day depth charts don't include fifth-year seniors, which have not been approved by the University. That means Kyle McCarthy, Scott Smith, Mike Anello, Ray Herring and Duncan were omitted. With the roster swollen, Weis hopes that competition can turn from a talking point into reality. "It's time for them to step up," Weis said. "We've got potential fifth-year guys we're talking about. You've got some recruits coming in in the summertime when the reinforcements end up getting here. Some of these guys it's their last opportunity to put themselves in the mix."
   Competition for Clausen?
   There's no quarterback controversy in South Bend. In fact, there's not even a competition, at least for the starting job. Weis did sit down with Jimmy Clausen and Dayne Crist to talk about leadership during spring practice, but there's no doubt about who'll start all spring and into next season. "Absolutely, Jimmy is the starter," Weis said. "It's his job to lose." The more interesting part comes after Clausen and Crist. Weis said Nick Montana is the third option, but John Goodman and Dan McCarthy could get looks as well. "Well, first of all, I'd go to Montana on just the regular things here," Weis said. "But if we were going to run an expanded version of our offense, it would be Goodman. He can throw the ball as far and as hard as the first two guys. I mean, this kid can sling the football. But the thing is first comes first. I want to give him an opportunity to compete at wide receiver, because I can see him in our two-deep at wide receiver."
   Talking Te'o
   There aren't many days that go by when Manti Te'o isn't a topic of conversation at Notre Dame. Weis said he's not sure where the five-star linebacker will develop in his defense, although inside linebacker appears likely. However, that's where Brian Smith and Toryan Smith are listed, at least for now. "I think that coming in all likelihood he's going to be one of those two inside positions," Weis said of Te'o. "But right now he's not here. For example, I could have easily taken Brian Smith and put him at (outside linebacker), and put Toryan Smith at (middle linebacker) because they're the two most veteran guys. "I've got to find out what (Steve) Filer can do. I've got to find out what (David) Posluszny can do. When the reinforcements come, if they're behind those guys they can find them. If they can beat them out, they can beat them out."
   Championship Coaches
   Weis wanted a Super Bowl feel to his Blue-Gold Game coaching staff. He couldn't have done much better than landing Justin Tuck, Reggie Brooks, Jeff Faine and Bertrand Berry to return to campus for the April 18 exhibition. Tuck played for the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII and Berry played for the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII. "Last but not least, I'm excited about the group of coaches we have coming in for the Blue and Gold Game," he said.

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8. Notre Dame vs. Miami (FL) series coming soon?

   03/18/09 13:10:11 | 0 Comments

   Pretty much the #1 team I would like to see Notre Dame schedule in the future .... I really hope this happens ...
   
   

   Miami Hurricanes, Notre Dame could renew football rivalry

   

   By BARRY JACKSON

   • Photo

   

   bjackson@MiamiHerald.com

   After a nearly two-decade break, Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said the Fighting Irish is ''very interested'' in playing Miami again in football, and the interest is mutual.

   UM's Kirby Hocutt initiated talks with Swarbrick, who became Notre Dame's athletic director in July. No dates are set, but talks will resume in April, Swarbrick said by phone Monday.

   NBC's Notre Dame contract includes seven Irish home games and one prime-time neutral site game annually through 2015. ''You could do that,'' Swarbrick said of the neutral site game, ``plus do one home and home.''

   UM and Notre Dame played annually (1971-1985 and 1987-1990) before the Irish discontinued the series. A Notre Dame student printed ''Catholics vs. Convicts'' T-shirts before the epic 1988 game in South Bend, Ind., which Notre Dame won 31-30. UM won five of the past seven meetings and hostilities rose during and after Miami's 58-7 win in 1985, when the Canes were accused of running up the score.

   Playing Miami is appealing, Swarbrick said, because ``they are two great academic institutions. We're eager to play schools that share our values. There's a lot of great history around the games.''

   • The Canes will try to accommodate Kansas State's request to escape games against UM in 2011 and 2012. UM has Florida A&M, at Ohio State, at Pittsburgh and USF in 2010, but only two nonconference games booked in 2011 (Ohio State, at USF) and 2012 (Cincinnati, USF).

   
   

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9. Saline QB Boisture commits to Boston College ...

   03/10/09 19:19:56 | 0 Comments

   Michigan QB heads to ACC
   Saline, Mich. quarterback Joe Boisture is one of the fastest-rising prospects in the country, earning numerous offers over the last few weeks and attracting national interest. However, the 6-foot-6, 202-pounder has always wanted to get the process over with early and on ...

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10. The March Madness Pick'em has returned ...

    03/03/09 19:24:17 | 0 Comments

    Obviously there's some time left to register and pick your bracket.
    
    

    Yahoo! Sports Tournament Pick'em!

    To accept the invitation, just follow this link. For reference, here's the group information.

    Group ID#: 22222
    Password: bosco

    
    

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11. Sports Illustrated on the Single Wing ...

    03/01/09 19:41:13 | 0 Comments

    Saw this on the up-football.com board ... figured BigRed89 and a few others would like this ...
    
    

    Old Is New New Is Old Back To The Future With The Single Wing

    
    Coach Hofer and Menominee even got a mention
    

    
    From the time that Kazmaier left Princeton through the late '90s, the single wing was kept on life support by a small cadre of devotees like Ken Hofer of Menominee High in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, which won three state championships, the most recent in 2007;

    
    
    

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12. Lou Holtz to coach "ND Legends" team vs. Japan?

    02/20/09 11:44:33 | 0 Comments

    
    
    

    Holtz will lead Notre Dame legends

    
    

    TOKYO (AP) -- When Notre Dame asks you to coach, you don't say no, so Lou Holtz will fly to Tokyo in July to coach the Fighting Irish legends team against Japan's national American football team.

    The former Notre Dame coach was in Tokyo on Friday to promote the Notre Dame Japan Bowl on July 25 at Tokyo Dome. Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana, a Notre Dame graduate, will also make the trip to Japan as a celebrity ambassador but won't suit up for his alma mater.

    "The love that people have for Notre Dame can't be explained," Holtz said at a press conference. "Notre Dame asked me to coach and you don't say no. We asked Joe to come because we felt it was important for a guy like Joe to come over and represent Notre Dame."

    Holtz said that over 100 former Notre Dame players volunteered to make the trip, so he and his coaching staff will hold tryouts to narrow the team down for the trip. The final roster will be announced in April.

    Holtz listed several players who were sure to make the team, including quarterback Tony Rice, running back Travis Thomas and center Tim Ruddy.

    Holtz has been in Japan four times in the past as a coach of the U.S. team in the Japan Bowl and said his players will be able to experience a new culture.

    "We wanted the players to experience Japanese culture and we think it will be a great experience for them," said Holtz. "I coached here in four Japan Bowls and enjoyed every one of them."

    Heisman Trophy winner Tim Brown will be a member of the coaching staff. Brown joins fellow former Notre Dame players Chris Zorich and Reggie Brooks on the staff.

    Holtz wasn't worried about his players overwhelming the Japanese team.

    "The players are older and haven't played for a few years," said Holtz. "Football is a team game and it doesn't always go to the best athlete."

    Holtz watched video of the Japanese team during his trip and said he was very impressed with the coaching of the players and the discipline.

    Holtz, who had a 100-30-2 record in 11 seasons at Notre Dame, was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in May.

    Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

    
    

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13. Sam Webb's - Top 12 instate players ... class of '10

    02/19/09 09:04:59 | 0 Comments

    Sam Webb: Recruiting
    Top football recruits in Michigan for 2010
    
    The state of Michigan is poised to produce one of its best gridiron classes in recent seasons. Colleges from across the country are already setting up shop in the Great Lakes State to try to harvest some of that class of 2010 talent. Meanwhile, Michigan and Michigan State are working feverishly to keep much of it home.
    
    Here is an early look at the 12 best players on Scout.com's "State of Michigan Top 125." According to Scout.com Midwest analyst Allen Trieu, the battle for No. 1 on this list will last well into the season.
    
    1. QB Devin Gardner, Inkster (6-4, 196, 4.6): Gardner has emerged as one of the mostly heavily-recruited signal callers in the country. The genesis of his climb up the charts coincided with his transfer to Inkster last year.
    
    Spring and summer work with his new coaches and teammates laid the groundwork for strong camp performances at schools like Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, and a host of others. Those showings preceded a trip to the prestigious Elite 11 camp in Eugene, Ore.
    
    When fall finally rolled around, Gardner was primed to have a breakout season. He did just that, amassing 1,886 yards, 26 touchdowns and only seven interceptions in the air while also totaling 1,401 yards and 22 touchdowns on the ground. His efforts paced Inkster's run to the state title game.
    
    His offer sheet stands at 13 and includes Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Iowa, Purdue, Wisconsin, Notre Dame and LSU. Noticeably missing, however, is childhood favorite Ohio State. The Buckeyes were eliminated from contention earlier this week after they made Gardner aware of their intent to focus all of their early recruiting attention on Nick Montana, son of former NFL great Joe Montana.
    
    Trieu: "Devin showed as a junior that he could hang in the pocket and win with the pass. Of course, he is still at his best when plays break down and he ad-libs. But he is adding polish to his game with each passing day and that bodes well for his college future."
    
    2. LB/DE William Gholston, Detroit Southeastern (6-7, 245, 4.6): This cousin of former Cass Tech and Ohio State standout Vernon Gholston has displayed similar freakish ability during his three-year high school career. Gholston first came to the attention of gridiron observers around the city while at Mumford, where he registered an impressive 19 sacks as a sophomore. However, his star went to another level when he transferred to Southeastern last season. Gholston finished the year with 101 tackles, including 22 for loss and 15 sacks to go along with two fumble recoveries and four forced fumbles.
    
    Now he is understandably being courted by programs from across the country. At last check he held offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Wisconsin, Iowa, Purdue, Florida, Miami (Fla.), Illinois and Central Michigan.
    
    Trieu: It would be a challenge to find many kids more physically gifted than Will. It is surprising how well he runs and moves for his size, and he never quits on a play. I still think he will have to transition into being a true defensive end in college, but he has a lot of talent."
    
    3. RB Austin White, Livonia Stevenson (6-0, 180, 4.4): White bested his stellar sophomore performance last year by showing he could drive Stevenson's ship without help from his brothers Myles and Mitchell, both of whom had headed off to Michigan State. The talented youngster rushed 228 times for 1,610 yards and 28 touchdowns, and also hauled in 21 receptions for 310 yards and four more TDs.
    
    A number of programs covet that versatility. Some have even expressed the belief that he could excel as a defensive back. White already holds offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa, Wisconsin and Purdue. His Green and White ties run deep, as both his parents are alums and both his brothers are students, but he insisted from the beginning that that will not be the defining factor in his recruitment. His approach thus far definitely backs that up. He has made numerous visits to Michigan and MSU, and he also has traveled to Notre Dame, Iowa and Wisconsin. Apparently that is just the beginning of a very busy itinerary. He is also interested in dropping in on schools that are showing interest from outside the region, like Florida State.
    
    Trieu: "I love the versatility Austin brings. He is excellent in the open field, he can run from an I-formation, from a shotgun, he can split out, he can play in the slot, and he blocks. I don't know that he'll be a workhorse type back in college, but he can help a team in a variety of ways."
    
    4. LB Max Bullough, Traverse City St. Francis (6-3, 220, 4.6, committed to Michigan State): The name says it all. The Bullough family legacy at MSU made this an extremely tough recruitment for every other program. His father Shane, uncle Chuck, and grandfather Hank all played for the Spartans. Hank also coached in East Lansing.
    
    UCLA, Iowa, and Notre Dame tried to make things interesting, but Bullough announced his allegiance to the Spartans in early October. He then turned his athletic attention back to the football field, where he helped lead his team to the Division 7 state title.
    
    Trieu: "Max is simply a kid you can count on. He won't necessarily make eye-popping highlight-reel plays, but I'll take double-digit tackles every game over that any day. He has a feel for the game and a nose for the ball. You'll be hard-pressed to find many missed tackles from this kid."
    
    5. CB Dior Mathis, Detroit Cass Tech (5-8, 170, 4.3): Prior to last season, Mathis was considered by many to be a track guy playing football. An offseason of strength work, plus seeking out one-on-one challenges at every summer camp he could get to, was the start of proving otherwise. Mathis added 22 pounds of muscle, but maintained his 10.47 100-meter speed.
    
    The more physically prepared Mathis was an impact player for Cass Tech in 2008. He grabbed eight interceptions and flashed big-play ability on offense en route to helping the Technicians get back to the playoffs. On the recruiting front he was seemingly signed, sealed and delivered for Miami last September, but eventually decided against offering an early verbal pledge. Mathis wants to go through the entire recruiting process and has no shortage of suitors to explore. He holds offers from Michigan, Miami, Iowa, Oregon and Tennessee, but maintains a top four of Florida, Miami, Michigan and Ohio State.
    
    Trieu: "Dior's cover skills are fantastic. His feet, hips and makeup speed are uncanny. He likes to play in your face, even despite his size. I've noticed him getting bigger and stronger, which should help the part of his game that needs the most improvement -- run support. Ultimately, true cover corners are hard to find and Dior has those skills."
    
    6. DE/TE C.J. Olaniyan, Warren Mott (6-5, 225, 4.7): This jumbo athlete had a breakout season for Warren Mott. He led his team to the playoffs, where it was eliminated by Cass Tech. Along the way, he established himself as a high major prospect. Olaniyan finished the year with 77 tackles from his defensive end spot, including 14 for loss and nine sacks. On offense he hauled in 33 passes for 536 yards and three touchdowns.
    
    He prefers defense on the next level and college coaches seem to agree that that is his optimal position. Olaniyan currently holds offers from Michigan State, Kentucky and Indiana. He is also receiving heavy interest from Michigan, Maryland, Penn State and Iowa.
    
    Trieu: "It is clear that Olaniyan is starting to blow up now, but he has been one of the state's best athletes for the last two seasons. He could play tight end in college, but his pass-rush ability and long frame seem to be best suited for defense. He is still raw, but that is actually scary for opponents."
    
    7. RB Nick Hill, Chelsea (5-7, 180, 4.5): Hill looks like Mike Hart, is built like Hart and runs like Hart. On the stat sheet, Hill fills things up like Hart. Need proof? Check out his 2008 stats: 2,260 yards and 27 TDs rushing, 19 receptions for 242 yards, and seven kickoff returns for 252 yards and two TDs.
    
    If credentials were all that were needed to get scholarship offers, Hart would've had a ton by the time his senior year began. But like Hart, Hill will have to clear the hurdle in the minds of many college coaches about his size. No one can predict whether the Chelsea star will come close to Hart's enormous dynamism, but he has already proven that he is a book that definitely can't be judged by its cover. Stanford, Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan have seen enough to convince them to offer scholarships. Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, Iowa and Wisconsin are among those currently showing a great deal of interest.
    
    Trieu: "Hill's measureables may not be prototype, but the rest of his game is. He has great vision and runs with determination. His speed is an underrated part of his repertoire, and he showed as a junior that he had home-run ability. His size may scare some schools off, but he will make them wish it hadn't in a few years."
    
    8. QB Joe Boisture, Saline (6-6, 200, N/A): Boisture emerged from relative obscurity last year after being knocked out for his entire sophomore campaign. Former Hemlock standout and future Wisconsin Badger Zac Mathias muted the buzz about the 6-6 gunslinger with a hit to his non-throwing elbow during a scrimmage.
    
    The hype began building again when camp season rolled during the spring and summer. During impressive showings at the Purdue quarterback camp and the Elite 11 camp, Boisture was able to demonstrate why so many Flint-area observers were touting him so heavily before he ever took one varsity snap. He carried that strong offseason showing into his junior campaign, where he passed for 1,700 yards and 13 touchdowns while leading Goodrich to an undefeated regular season. He recently transferred to Saline and is the favorite to win that job next year. It's very likely that all of his athletic attention will be focused on that task since his college decision stands a good chance of already being out of the way.
    
    "I plan to make an early decision," Boisture told Scout.com earlier this week. He's visited Pittsburgh and Boston College, and has a trip to Cincinnati scheduled. "So, those are the three schools I'm considering. Hopefully, I can then sit down with my parents and make a decision. I just want to get it out of the way. I mean, this whole recruiting process is long and takes a lot of you."
    
    Trieu: "It will be interesting to see what Boisture does this year. He had a great junior season and showed his talent, but at a smaller level. Watching him on tape though, it is clear he has a great arm and he has the height you want in a quarterback, so he has the requisite tools for the job."
    
    9. QB Robert Bolden, Orchard Lake St. Mary's (6-4, 197, 4.5): Last season Bolden completed just 72-of-123 passes for 949 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions while adding another 260 yards and three TDs on the ground. Statistically, it's quite obvious that those numbers don't compare favorably with those of Gardner and Boisture.
    
    The reason for the difference? Bolden wasn't asked to pass nearly as much as the others. However, when he was, he came through with big passing games -- 238 yards vs. Warren DeLaSalle, 195 against Davison and 223 against Birmingham Brother Rice. The combination of the upside that is presented by his outstanding athleticism, his impressive showing at camps and combines last summer, and his ability to deliver through the air when called upon has created a compelling case for many schools to extend offers. Michigan State, Central Michigan, Northwestern, Virginia, Duke, Wisconsin, Colorado and most recently Michigan already have. Don't look for a decision anytime soon, though. Bolden plans to carry his recruitment into the fall.
    
    Trieu: "Bolden is as polished a high school quarterback as there is in the Midwest this (class). He has good mechanics and showed improved arm strength as a junior. While he is comfortable in the pocket, he also has good speed and can make throws on the run."
    
    10. LB Austin Gray, Warren Fitzgerald (6-2, 210, 4.6): Back-to-back productive seasons have made Austin Gray a name to remember on the in-state scene. He followed up his 105-tackle, three-sack sophomore campaign with an equally-impressive 97-tackle, nine-sack showing as a junior. His junior film has proven to be a major catalyst in his recruitment. Multiple programs, including Michigan and Michigan State, began showing increased interest. Others -- Central Michigan, Toledo, Purdue, Indiana and Maryland -- stepped up with offers.
    
    Of those that have extended scholarships, Indiana and Purdue might hold the early edge. Gray was born in Columbia City, Ind., and still has a number of relatives there. The Hoosier fans are plentiful in his family and he also has two cousins that currently attend Purdue.
    
    Trieu: "Gray is a tough kid who can take on blocks, shed them, and find the football. He is good at taking plays head-on and getting up the field. He has good speed and shows ability to play sideline-to-sideline, as well as rush the quarterback. He improved a lot as a junior. That earned him a few offers."
    
    11. WR Jeremy Jackson, Ann Arbor Huron (6-4, 186, 4.6, committed to Michigan): The son of Michigan running backs coach Fred Jackson was a marked man in 2008, but acquitted himself well, hauling in 42 receptions for 620 yards and seven touchdowns. His big body and leaping ability have endeared him to coaches searching for a physical pass catcher that is a frequent mismatch in the red zone.
    
    Michigan was among those that offered early, and to some it may have seemed like a foregone conclusion that he would don the Maize and Blue. That, though, was never a certainty in Jackson's mind. Trips to Texas and Florida over the summer -- along with offers from Florida, Iowa, Stanford, and Wisconsin, among others -- proved that he was serious about exploring options. One of the factors that had prevented Jackson from making his decision even sooner was his uncertainty about whether U-M's new offense would put the ball in the air. After learning more about the system and seeing it in action on the field, he is now a believer.
    
    "I know they're going to throw, especially since they've got these good quarterbacks coming," said Jackson. "I'm just really excited about the offense because I know once you get the quarterback for it they're going to be throwing it. So I just wanted to jump on it."
    
    Trieu: "Jeremy has very good size and great hands. As a junior, he showed more ability to out-position defenders and use his body to make tough catches in traffic. His speed is the only question. His game speed looks to be better than his timed speed, so I think he'll find his niche in college."
    
    12. CB/RB Mylan Hicks, Detroit Renaissance (5-11, 175, 4.42): Hicks is another player that went from being a relative unknown to a high major target last season. In his first year as a full-time two-way starter, he turned the heads of numerous programs. That was especially true defensively, where he came up with 15 pass breakups and an interception from his cornerback spot.
    
    Size might not be as much of an issue as it had been since he has reportedly added a couple of inches and currently stands 5-11. Only Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan and Arizona have offered, but Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, Michigan and Michigan State (where former teammates Chris Norman and Dana Dixon will be freshmen next year) are showing growing interest.
    
    Trieu: "Hicks has great feet and burst, and that is key for a cornerback. His coverage ability is up there with the best. He will likely climb up the rankings."
    
    Sam Webb is managing editor of GoBlueWolverine magazine and GoBlueWolverine.com, and co-host of the "Michigan Insider" morning show weekdays on Sports Talk 1050 WTKA. His column appears every Thursday.

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14. Davison's Putnam named coach at U of D Jesuit

    02/18/09 16:12:06 | 0 Comments

    I'd say they hit a home run with this one ...
    
    February 19, 2009For Immediate Release

    Jeff Putnam named U of D Jesuit Football Coach

    Jeff Putnam, a Hall of Fame and State Championship coach, has been named the new football coach at University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy. Putnam brings an extensive resume to his new position, most recently leading Davison High School to a record seven straight Big Nine League Championships and three Class A Regional Championships in 2002, 2006, and 2008.

    A 2007 inductee to the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association (MHSFCA) Hall of Fame, Putnam won a Class A state championship while leading Lapeer West in 1995. Holding an overall record of 159-77 over 22 years as a head coach, including 22-10 in the State Playoffs, Putnam has been named MHSFCA Regional Coach of the Year four times (1996, 2002, 2005, 2006).

    "I happily accept the challenge to help resurrect the U of D Jesuit football program," said Putnam. "It will be an honor to mentor and coach quality young men and develop an outstanding football program in which alumni, faculty and students can all be proud. The more I learn about the Jesuits and the U of D Jesuit community, the more I'm excited to be a part of the school."

    "We're very fortunate to have hired someone of Jeff's quality and expertise," said U of D Jesuit Athletic Director Mickey Barrett. "He will be a great asset in teaching and nurturing our young men in school and in life skills. We're very fortunate to have a Hall of Fame quality coach."

    U of D Jesuit, an all-boys Catholic School located in Detroit, draws students from throughout the Metropolitan-Detroit area and holds an outstanding academic reputation. Putnam inherits a program that won Class A Regional Championships in 1999 and 2001 but has since experienced difficulty. Putnam resurrected programs at Lapeer West and Davison and built them into annual state championship contenders.

    "In our search, we specifically looked for coaches who have resurrected programs and made them perennial powerhouses," Barrett said. "Coach Putnam fits this criteria perfectly."

    
    

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15. Any Notre Dame fans here? New site rollout ...

    02/15/09 12:25:34 | 0 Comments

    new ND fan board .... come chat it up!
    
    
    
    
    

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16. Notre Dame Football Recruiting Needs for the Class of 2010

    02/15/09 12:10:27 | 0 Comments

    The 2010 class for Notre Dame looks to feature 24+ athletes based on my scholarship breakdown.
    
    Quarterback (1-2)
    After passing on taking a QB in the class of 2009, the Irish will look to take two (2) QBs out of the class of 2010. Based on the early offers, in my opinion it appears Weis and staff are looking to bring in one (1) pro-style QB and one (1) dual threat QB. At this point Jake Heaps (WA) and Devin Gardner (MI) appear to be the main targets.
    
    Targets: Jake Heaps (WA), Devin Gardner (MI)
    
    Commits: None
    
    RB/FB (2-3)
    A program can never have enough quality runningbacks. Even after hauling in 4 and 5 star RBs the past couple years the Irish have still not found that "go-to" every down back they desire. In all due fairness to the backs, the offensive line shares most of the blame. With only one (1) fullback on the current roster I look for Notre Dame take two (2) rb and one (1) fb in the class of 2010.
    
    Targets: Corey Brown (PA), Dietrich Riley (CA), Anthony Barr (CA)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Wide Receiver (3)
    A position of strenght for the Irish, the Irish look to bring in three (3) more quality athletes. With Robby Parris, George West and Barry Gallup likely going into their last season in 2009, Notre Dame needs to maintain the current level of depth and even increase the quality.
    
    Targets: Mike Davis (TX), Tai-ler Jones (GA), Kyle Prater (IL), Darius White (TX)
    
    Commits: Daniel Smith (video)
    
    Tight End (0-1)
    Another position of strength. Whether or not players such as Jake Golic and Tyler Eiffert actually end up at Tight Ends may determine where the staff wants to go with this position. I would recruit hard for one elite Tight End, if unable to secure a legit 4-5 star Tight End I believe it would be wise to save this scholarship for another position.
    
    Targets: C.J. Fiedorowicz (IL)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Offensive Line (4)
    With three (3) players with starting experience (Young, Duncan and Olson) moving on after the 2009 season, I believe it would be wise to stock up on as many quality OL as possible. I'm saying AT LEAST four (4) in the class of 2010. OT Seantrel Henderson out of MN looks like the francise LT that the Irish are looking for.
    
    Targets: Seantrel Henderson (MN), Brent Benedict (FL), Chaz Green (FL), James Hurst (IN), Brandon Linder (FL), Mark Shuman (VA), James Stone (TN).
    
    Commits: Christian Lombard
    
    Defensive Tackle (2)
    With no DTs moving on after the 2009 season, the Irish look to stockpile more unproven talenent at the DT position. I believe the Irish need to hit a homerun and make sure at least one of the DTs in the class are in that 5-star "elite" category.
    
    Target: Denzel McCoy (GA)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Defensive End/DT (2)
    With Morrice Richardson, Kallen Wade and Paddy Mullen all potentially being gone after 2009, Notre Dame needs to bring in at least 2 DE/DT type players to back up and compete with Ethan Johnson.
    
    Targets: Jackson Jeffcoat (TX), Corey Lemonier (FL).
    
    Commits: None
    
    DE/Outside LB (2)
    Current commit Chris Martin looks like the ideal candidate to become a dominant player at this position. With all due respect to Manti Te'o, if/when Martin signs or enrolls at Notre Dame, this will be the biggest defensive impact player ND has recruited in years. Aside from Martin I would like to bring in one (1) other player at this position.
    
    Targets: Chance Carter (IL), Reggie Wilson (TX), Owamagbe Odighizuwa (OR),
    
    Commits: Chris Martin (video)
    
    Outside Linebacker/S (2)
    This is for the linebacker spot that seems to be played by safety/olb in this defense, as played by Harrison Smith in 2008 and potentially Zeke Motta in 2009. This spot needs to be athletic enough to cover and strong enough to stop the run. I would attempt to bring in two (2) more athletic linebackes to compete at this position.
    
    Targets: V.J. Fehoko (HI), Khairi Fortt (CT), Jordan Hicks (OH), Tony Jefferson (CA), Justin McCay (TX)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Inside Linebacker (2)
    It will be interesting to see if the Irish can land a big time player to compete 2-3 years down the road for a spot to play next to Te'o. With a lot of talented underclassmen and only junior Brian Smith being a proven player, it would be wise to continue to bring in more competition at the ILB position.
    
    Targets: Caleb Lavey (TX), Jeff Luc (FL)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Corner (2)
    With Rasheon McNeil moving on after 2009 and the uncertaintity right now with talented sophomore Gary Gray, I would bring in at least two (2) corners in the class of 2010.
    
    Targets: Lamarcus Joyner (FL), Cody Riggs (FL), Lo Wood (FL), Spencer Boyd (FL)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Safety (1-2)
    With Sergio Brown and Kyle McCarthy playing out their eligibility after 2009, it really hurt losing out on both Moore and Starling to USC. Without at least (2) freshmen S coming in for the 2010 season, the Irish will be very light at the S position with Harrison Smith and Dan McCarty being the only real options.
    
    Targets: Cory Cooper (IL), Sean Parker (CA)
    
    Commits: None
    
    Special Teams (0)
    With a K, P and Long Snapper in the 2009 class I would hold off a year or two recruiting special teams.
    
    Targets: None
    
    Commits: None
    
    * This list is fluid and will be updated as more information is gathered.....and updated here.
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

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17. Randy Hart: New Notre Dame Defensive Line Coach

    02/14/09 13:10:05 | 0 Comments

    
    Irish Eyes has learned that longtime Washington assistant coach Randy Hart is expected to be hired to coach Notre Dame's defensive line in 2009. Hart is an Ohio State graduate who coached in Seattle for 21 years.

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18. Meet the 09 ND Staff ... Tenuta to call the Defense ...

    02/13/09 11:19:07 | 0 Comments

    Meet The New Crew by TODD D. BURLAGE Assistant Editor Print Version |Digg This Story

    The changes are in place and the new assignments have been given to the Notre Dame coaching staff, and there are a couple of interesting twists to the new-look Irish staff. The most notable ones come from the defensive side of the football. Weis introduced his new assistants and outlined the responsibilities for each Friday during his state of the union/meet the coaches press conference. Former defensive coordinator Corwin Brown has been promoted to Associate Head Coach/Co-Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Backs Coach. With Weis ready to concentrate his duties more on offense this season, and hand the bulk of the defensive responsibilities over to Brown, the head coach wanted someone to oversee the entire defensive operation, and that will be Brown. The move means Jon Tenuta has been promoted to Assistant Head Coach for Defense/Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach. Tenuta takes over the defensive play calling duties for Brown. "Most of the stuff will be almost exactly the same, we just might change some of the terms," Weis said. "We haven't gotten to that." Bryant Young will take over as defensive graduate assistant, and Weis hopes the job fits well enough that the former Notre Dame standout is interested in becoming the defensive line coach after some grooming. Young didn't rule it out. "The more I looked at the business opportunities, it just didn't fire me up like coaching did, and working with young men," Bryant said. "That's the one thing that never really went away. I'm excited that I have an opportunity to do this because it is something I believe I have a passion for. I want to be able to share what I know and give back to the game." The only position on the coaching staff to be determined is the defensive line coach. Rumors that former Cleveland Browns coach Romeo Crennel might take the job were accurate. But after some deliberation, Crennel and Weis decided the timing wasn't right. "We decided that he wasn't in position at this time to make a commitment to do this so we are going to move in another direction," said Weis, who expects to have the line coach vacancy filled within days. "I was not going to do anything with any other defensive line coach until after Romeo made his decision." One interesting piece of fallout from the responsibility shuffling could affect how Weis performs his duties. A major topic of conversation since Notre Dame's offensive outburst in the Hawaii Bowl has been whether Charlie Weis should, or would, take over playing calling duties in 2009, and whether he would call those plays from the upstairs coaches box. Indeed, Weis will return as the play caller, no surprise there, with former offensive coordinator Michael Haywood moving onto Miami, Ohio. Whether Weis will call those plays from upstairs remains a decision in progress, though it is a subject the staff has talked about. Weis said the possibility of moving upstairs remains on the "lower end of 50-50." "Here are the problems with that," Weis said. "When you go upstairs, you obviously have to stay upstairs, because the first time you come downstairs, now you open up yourself for a whole different set of scrutiny. What you have to decide is what is the best both in the short-term and the long-term. Whatever that decision is, it's gotta to be something you intend to do on a fairly permanent basis." At least one supporter of Weis and the program wants him to stay upstairs, Charlie's wife, Maura, who is pushing him to go upstairs. "I can honestly tell you that is not a 'no,'" Weis said. "It is something that is still under conversation, and my wife will be very happy that you asked that question." Weis didn't mince words when he talked about the struggles in the running game over the last few seasons. Improving this area is so dear to Weis, he named Frank Verducci Running Game Coordinator along with his duties as offensive line coach. Along with new running backs coach, Tony Alford, this will be an area of emphasis. Verducci said he watched tape from last season, and believes quick strides can be made along the line, simply through better fundamentals. "The issues were all correctable," Verducci said. "And that's what excited me about the opportunity." As Weis continues to restructure his staff, he said that having the chance to perform the proper due diligence this time around is a different situation than when he built his first staff while still coaching the New England Patriots. "Conceptually, I was happy with how things came together, but the one thing you can't do unless you're around, is feel chemistry," Weis said. "And I think a critical factor in successful programs is chemistry. There has to be chemistry with the players but there also has to chemistry with the coaches." Tonsillitis Epidemic? Weis said that are several guys that need to some repair work before spring that may keep them out of some or all action this spring ball, though Weis said there is nobody projected not be ready for fall camp. Weis mentioned shoulders, legs and other injuries, but he said tonsillitis might be the biggest issue he is dealing with. "I've never heard of so many people needing their tonsils out at the same time," Weis said. "Usually these guys lose a whole bunch of weight, maybe I should have my tonsils pulled. A lineman gets his tonsils pulled, they can lose 25 pound." Numbers Game Weis said he wasn't ready to offer any specifics about who would be returning for a fifth season. But he said with the 18-man recruiting class and a return of the fifth-year seniors, there will be 24 or 25 players represented, which would bring the full Notre Dame roster close the allotted 85. The fifth-year requests are still be evaluated, and a decision on who will be returning is coming soon. "Several guys have applied for a fifth year. There's a bunch of them that have applied," Weis said. "They have not rejected a guy yet, but still they have to go through the process. We'll let that play its course." Weis Update Weis said his right knee is healing nicely and he is walking under his own power after surgery. "I went from a walker, to crutches, to a cane, to nothing," Weis said. Surgery was scheduled for this month to repair his left knee, but since the pain has subsided in that knee, Weis said that surgery has been postponed indefinitely. Personnel Notes - Irish cornerback Darrin Walls is back in school and ready to join the team this spring after missing last season with personal reasons. - Fullback Luke Schmidt has been given his medical release because of reoccurring concussions and will no longer be with the team. - The status of defensive back Jashaad Gaines is in limbo as he remains back home dealing with personal issues. Weis said there is an "open door" policy for him to return but no decision has been made. Following is a listing of the Notre Dame coaching staff as it currently stands: Charlie Weis - Head Coach Corwin Brown - Associate Head Coach/Co-Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Backs Coach Rob Ianello - Assistant Head Coach for Offense/Recruiting Coordinator and Wide Receivers Coach Jon Tenuta - Assistant Head Coach for Defense/Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach Brian Polian - Special Teams Coordinator Tony Alford - Running Backs Coach Bernie Parmalee - Tight Ends Coach Ron Powlus - Quarterbacks Coach Frank Verducci - Running Game Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach Brian White - Offensive Graduate Assistant Bryant Young - Defensive Graduate Assistant Kinnon Tatum - Defensive Intern

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19. Potential big cross country national transfer ...

    02/12/09 10:00:12 | 0 Comments

    I know the Hun school had 2 big time recruits this year and both enrolled early at their colleges (ND and Michigan)
    
    

    Football star might leave Bishop O'Dowd

    By Michael Bower
    Staff writer

    Posted: 02/11/2009 07:50:32 PM PST

    Updated: 02/11/2009 10:45:12 PM PST

    
    

    OAKLAND - Bishop O'Dowd High football star Chris Martin said Wednesday that he could be leaving O'Dowd to attend Hun School of Princeton - a boarding school in New Jersey - for his senior year of high school.

    "We are in the process of doing all the paperwork and I still have to get accepted," said Martin, who orally committed to Notre Dame on Feb. 4. "It is still very early, but if everything does follow through then I will be going out there. There is a chance that I might not be going, but that is up to my mother."

    The highly-recruited linebacker wants to go through the early enrollment program at Hun School and then enroll at Notre Dame for the spring of 2010. That would make him available for spring practices.

    "The big factor is I looked into the early enrollment policy at O'Dowd and there isn't one," Martin said. "And the transferring (rules) in (California) are so hard to beat. Prep school doesn't have any type of transfer rules or anything.

    "The whole early spring process helps out a lot," he added. "I am not interested in the whole second semester of my senior year. I would rather go to college. "... If you get accommodated with the playbook, then everything else is easier in the fall.

    
    

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20. A tough/interesting 2009 schedule for the Highland Park Polar Bears ...

    02/08/09 15:06:28 | 0 Comments

    According to michigan-football.com
    
    1 - Lansing Everett
    2 - Orchard Lake St. Mary
    3 - Brother Rice
    4 - Country Day
    5 - Inkster
    6 - Cinci Moeller
    7 - River Rouge
    8 - Flint Powers
    9 - Dearborn
    
    There will be a lot of playoff teams in 2009 that if given this schedule would have a tough time coming up with more than 2-3 wins.
    

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