Random Randomness Kicks Things Off

So I've been knee deep in frozen breast milk, poopy diapers, and the color pink for a while now. Fatherhood is pretty sweet, but it does take up a lot of my time. I think I have things more scheduled now, so posting should be back to normal. I think I'll have about 3 posts a week starting next week until July.

So, lets screw the excuses and jump right into it...

Yep, I went to the Blue-Gold Game. After weeks of indecision, I made it up to the game after narrowly escaping a "death by deer" incident on 31. I realize everything that could have been said about the game has been said, but here is a bit more that you may not or could not have known... with bullet points!!!:

• Dad arrived at my house early- as usual. I noticed the McDonald's coffee in his hand and I asked him why in the hell would he go get breakfast without me.
• We arrived at McDonald's.
• Picked up The Great Stretchinsky. He hobbled his crippled ass to the car. I laugh at "The Savior of BF Goodrich." (A short story, but longer than the time I have to offer).
• Dad's famous 20/20 vision is put to the test as he somehow misses hitting the biggest fucking deer I have ever seen on highway 31. (Slight exaggeration... but what part?)
• We park.
• Bought the tickets and headed over to Gate B. No sign of anyone wanting to fight me or Stretch. All I saw was a few random people and about 9 cops. I then wondered- "Who is the crazier asshole? The anonymous poster for calling a challenge against a blogger and his buddy, or the blogger and his buddy for showing up to meet some crazed dumb ass reader?" It feels like a fatal attraction. I'm done with that shit.
• Walked over to Mike Frank's tailgate for Irish Eyes members. I post over there as "skelaton26". I greeted a busy Mike Frank and was told to drink up. We did indeed. Thanks for the beer Mike. I'll make sure to stop by more during the season.
• As I tried to walk into the stadium and hand my ticket to one of the ushers, 3 more ushers came over to me and demanded that I turned my shirt inside out. I wore my "Muck Fichigan" shirt. Needless to say, that my reaction to their overreaction was met with some stern warnings. I mean seriously. Muck? This is why the fun and electricity is gone from gameday. I told them I wasn't gay, so I would turn it inside out in the restroom instead of letting them drool over my delicious body. They followed me anyways. They never did take my ticket. Maybe I'll try a new shirt this fall.
• I met Eric of The Subway Alumni Show. Nice guy. Skinny as a crackhead though. Must be something in Magic Hat Beer. Eric and I agree- Nate Montana should be starting...
• BTW- The "Shirt" sucks in real life as well. Horrible.
• I'm not sure when it happened, but early in the game I caught more shit from the ushers. They made me take out what was an enjoyable dip of tobacco. I wasn't spitting on the person in front of me, and I wasn't spitting on the stairs or ground. I used a plastic water bottle. They said it was a city law. I googled it- I didn't find anything. There was like 1 usher for every 4 people there, so they probably needed something to do- but once again... seriously? I've been going to Notre Dame games since I was 19 and i started chewing during the game after they banned smoking inside the stadium all together ( I was a smoker until last June) and never was I reprimanded for chewing tobacco. I sat in a cloud of anger.
• They played the game.

Now, I could probably give you my opinions on the game itself, but after a week and a half- what's the point? I will say that the team speed on defense looked good, and the offensive line looks like they aren't lost in the wilderness with Moses. Other than that, it was as vanilla as you would expect from a public scrimmage that was orchestrated by Coach Weis. I should have drank more.

The NFL Draft means that football season is officially over... until July. For the 3rd time in 11 years, Notre Dame only had one player drafted (David Bruton- Broncos). The other two times were in 1998 ( Allen Rossum- Eagles) and in 2000 (Jarius Jackson- Broncos). That says a lot about the program for this past decade... and it ain't good. Five other players were signed as rookie free agents and another is weighing his options.

Next years draft could see a resurgence of draft picks with 6 seniors and possibly 6 or 7 juniors/5th year candidates. I'm not saying that 13 players will get drafted next year- that's stupid. But, there is always a possibility. I'm guessing 7. Still a high number, but what the hell. Denver might do us another favor or two.

Sorry about the Bagpipes. Since I've been posting lightly, I haven't had a "Bagpipe Monday" in a while. I hope this makes up for the lack of pipes these past few weeks.

The MVP's & The General

Armando Allen

The sky is the limit for Allen @ Rivals Video

Robert Blanton

Blanton has great expectations @ Rivals Video

Coach Weis

Weis sees spring progress @ Rivals Video

You can see more highlights and interviews at UND.com... HERE.

I'll have my own thoughts on the game and the gameday experience in a day or so. I just need a little more time to let this stuff marinate- it's not like I don't have some time between now and the Nevada game. Don't worry though- it will be up soon.

Big Recruiting Weekend

Pete Sampson talks about some of the visitors that will be in South Bend to see the Blue & Gold game.

AMP: Big weekend in South Bend @ Rivals Video

Irish Blogger Gathering... With Answers!

(Editor's note... This post contains the answers from a previous post. Also, any responses from other bloggers will be linked just below the post.)

Welcome back to the Irish Blogger gathering. Last time we saw our heroes, we were speaking in tongues and trying to understand the intricacies of Hawaiian life. After some much deserved celebration for ending the eternal bowl drought, the Fighting Irish get back to work officially for Spring ball on Friday the 20th. I'm banging my head against a rhinoceros in anticipation of watching cone drills and stretches soon.

With that said, I have been a procrastinating fool for the past few weeks and I am rushing, even now, to get these questions out to the rest of the coven. I'll add my answers before the end of the week. Look for responses from the other members in the IBG to be links in the comment section. Feel free, as readers, to answer these yourselves in the comment section as well. (Please keep in mind that some players may be kept out of spring ball due to injury or illness. Those details have not been released by the University).

Here we go...

1. Take your temperature. A) What sort of things are you looking for the team to work upon to help the 2009 season? Group improvements, players improvements, new fertilizer... whatever. As general a question as you will find. B) Same question, but instead of just the 2009 season- the future of the program as a whole.

A. 2009 could be a really great year for the Fighting Irish. The schedule sets up nicely and the bowl drought is over, so now it is time to get a few other things off of our back- such as beating U$C, and finally beating Michigan State at home. Those are two things that would have happened in 2005, if the Irish defense were as good as they should be in 2009. So instead of going with the obvious answer and saying "offensive line improvement" (which is still the best answer)... defensive line improvements. The line is relatively young, but it should be the deepest and most athletic defensive line in over a decade that Notre Dame has fielded. Stopping an opposing teams run game is just as vital as having one of our own as well as creating pressure on the quarterback without having to send one or two blitzers every down. The defense is primed for a great season- if they get quality production from the front four.

B. Without a doubt- Dayne Crist. Jimmy is the man until he leaves. All of the "Clausen Haters" had better recognize that fact. I suspect most of you will disappear within the first couple of games, as I think Jimmy is ready for a Heisman caliber year. (I'm not saying Jimmy is going to win the thing- just, at least, have good enough numbers and wins to be in the conversation). But I digress. It has been a long time since the Irish were able to groom a successor at the QB position. This is the time for Dayne to make huge strides to help ease his entry into stardom in 2010 or 2011. The future of the program has a lot at stake with this position, and if Weis does it right... we should be in good hands.

2. It remains to be seen if I will be traveling to the spring game. My wife may have objections to yet another birthday of hers being used for a game that essentially doesn't count. (I know, I know- she just doesn't get it.) Don't you think it's about time that the spring game was televised? You know ESPN is dying to get inside that stadium for a live broadcast. I don't think it would interfere with the NBC contract, and if it does- why aren't they televising this?

You already know what my answer is... OF COURSE! Is there some type of figure skating championship that requires NBC's attention? Or is it the University's fault for not allowing the cameras inside for the game? I'm not sure- but someone is probably willing to fork over some cash for the rights, and I say- motherfucking let them!

3. What position battle will be decided this spring? Which one will have to wait for summer/fall?

This spring will be very important to the depth chart. There is not a huge need for any of the incoming freshman to contribute right away, so what we see in the spring may be an actual prelude to the season. The biggest battle could be for the 3rd WR spot. You can say this guy is an X, or this guy is a Y- but really We have a 1 and a 2 (Tate & Floyd) and are searching for the 3. West, Goodman, Walker, and Kamara are all reaching for that place at the table. One of these four will win that spot and walk into the summer as the clear cut guy. I could be very wrong... just a hunch.

The safety battle between Kyle McCarthy, Sergio Brown, and Harrison Smith will have to wait until Fall. I do think that Smith will be one of the safeties full time, and Kyle and Sergio will be vying for the other spot. This may take a long time to figure out, but all 3 will still play. You know who I'm banking on.

4. If you could change anything about the way spring practice/ Blue-Gold Game is done- what would it be?

Yes televise it. But... I would also like to see the opportunity for a scrimmage against another team. Not a big school as that would do more harm than any type of good- but i bet if it was on national TV, Eastern Michigan would show up to South Bend to collect a check and an ass-whooping. Poor Swoop.

5. Name your 5 favorite players and change their jersey number. Tell us why...

I should have said current players, but no matter.

1. #31 Sergio Brown----- #9. Since the days of Jeff Burris, I have idolized any safety wearing this number, as I idolize Sergio now. (Dread the Dreads... Great pic Pops)

2. #23 Golden Tate----- #1. I just don't like the look of a 20 series number being used as a WR. #1 is a little more fitting of Tate than his current jersey. But, maybe it would make him look that much smaller.

3. #9 Ethan Johnson----- #99. I don't really have a problem with Johnson wearing a single digit number on the defensive line, but I just think that #99 would wear very well on him.

4. #59 Chris Stewart----- #69. It's not that i don't care for the number 59, but where is the love for the 60 series? I don't think anyone with a scholarship owns a 60 series number. The Human Planet could defer.

5. #12 Robert Blanton----- #21. R.J. reminds me so much of Bobby Taylor that he has to move his number around. Besides, I'm still waiting on the next Rickey Watters (do not talk shit about Rick) and I feel that #12 should be in semi-retirement until then.

6. Last year two sophomore's won the MVP awards for the Blue-Gold Game (Harrison Smith and Robert Hughes). Predict who this years MVP's will be using the same criteria. (Same class- 1 OFF. & 1 DEF.).

This will be different. James Aldridge and Scott Smith (although technically a 5th year). James runs for 82 yards and 2 scores and Smith has 11 tackles, 2 sacks and a forced fumble with a hit that would make Steve Atwater cry.

Look for more IBG throughout the Spring.

One Foot Down Responds (New Member)
Charlie's Nasties Has Answers
Domer Law is called to duty

Irish Blogger Gathering... Still Searching

Welcome back to the Irish Blogger gathering. Last time we saw our heroes, we were speaking in tongues and trying to understand the intricacies of Hawaiian life. After some much deserved celebration for ending the eternal bowl drought, the Fighting Irish get back to work officially for Spring ball on Friday the 20th. I'm banging my head against a rhinoceros in anticipation of watching cone drills and stretches soon.

With that said, I have been a procrastinating fool for the past few weeks and I am rushing, even now, to get these questions out to the rest of the coven. I'll add my answers before the end of the week. Look for responses from the other members in the IBG to be links in the comment section. Feel free, as readers, to answer these yourselves in the comment section as well. (Please keep in mind that some players may be kept out of spring ball due to injury or illness. Those details have not been released by the University).

Here we go...

1. Take your temperature. A) What sort of things are you looking for the team to work upon to help the 2009 season? Group improvements, players improvements, new fertilizer... whatever. As general a question as you will find. B) Same question, but instead of just the 2009 season- the future of the program as a whole.

2. It remains to be seen if I will be traveling to the spring game. My wife may have objections to yet another birthday of hers being used for a game that essentially doesn't count. (I know, I know- she just doesn't get it.) Don't you think it's about time that the spring game was televised? You know ESPN is dying to get inside that stadium for a live broadcast. I don't think it would interfere with the NBC contract, and if it does- why aren't they televising this?

3. What position battle will be decided this spring? Which one will have to wait for summer/fall?

4. If you could change anything about the way spring practice/ Blue-Gold Game is done- what would it be?

5. Name your 5 favorite players and change their jersey number. Tell us why...

6. Last year two sophomore's won the MVP awards for the Blue-Gold Game (Harrison Smith and Robert Hughes). Predict who this years MVP's will be using the same criteria. (Same class- 1 OFF. & 1 DEF.).

Good luck and check back at Subway Domer for the answers.

Did You Miss This Too?

Because of my disdain for mainstream media, I sometimes overlook a few things. These videos are an example of that. So, tada...

Post-Game Pressers

Clausen

Weis

Eating Hot Dogs

As I was laying down the hot dogs on the grill tonight, I thought to myself... "Wish I had a steak." And then I realized I still had to post a few tidbits about this years Blue-Gold game. But, what to write? I mean, if you haven't got it all read from the web by now... what do I have to offer? Probably not much, but as I was savoring the sweet flavor of pig ass and lips I started to put together a little memoir in the skull that maybe you will appreciate.

I tried to just enjoy the game this year and not over analyze every player and position. Because of this I am not going to start saying in this post who should start or not and what each player needs to work on (even though I'm sure I will still state a bit of it), but rather, I am just going to lay down my thoughts on the game. If you have any mushrooms, I advise you to take them now...

Field of Dreams

The new turf looks absolutely great. For now. I was almost disappointed that the rain stayed away for the game. I wanted to see how the field would hold up after only been laid for a short while. The color was bright, the field actually looked flat with a slight crown, and it was very short... I wonder how long that will last. The one thing that makes it look like the field the Fighting Irish play on was missing however. The lines in the end-zone that have become the staple of Notre Dame Stadium were eerily missing.

Recruit This

As it is with every Spring Game in the Weis regime, recruiting was at a fever pitch. The Fighting Irish played host to a slew of top High School talent and it looks as if most of the kids came away very impressed. The Irish picked up two very big targets in Cierre Wood and Tyler Stockton and were pressing hard for guys such as Jordan Barrett and Craig Roh.

Not only were the top juniors in attendance, but a major portion of the incoming class of 2008. That class (2008) is going to be one of the closest knit bunch of players we may ever see. (Does that even sound right?) Every time I looked down at the sideline at those guys, I saw them joking around and having a great time. We'll see how much they are laughing once they get to ND and start up two-a-days.

Jimmy!

Jimmy Clausen can sling the motherfucking football. Anyone else that says otherwise is a dick and deserves to rot in hell with a flaming goalpost stuck up their ass. (Are you listening ESPN?) The arm is fully healed and it looks that way. I saw a player that could make any throw and had a ton of zip on them as well.

The biggest thing Jimmy HAS to work on is his decision making under pressure and as he rolls out of the pocket.

Three things stuck out for me Saturday about Jimmy- 1) The bomb to Tate was dead on the money and that was missing from his game last year. 2) He found targets in the middle of the field and that was missing last year. 3) He got rid of the ball quicker and that was missing from last year. So all in all, three of the things that really hurt him as a passer when he actually HAD time to throw last year- it looks as if he has improved on and will become a better quarterback because of it.

Oh Captain

The three captains were chosen for the 2008 season and it comes as no surprise that Maurice Crum and David Bruton are two of those players. The wild card was going to be the offensive captain. Was the Sam Young going to get the nod or maybe Jimmy Clausen would be voted into the position? Nope. The senior WR from Detroit Michigan, David Grimes, was voted in and will be part of the Triad.

Wildcats

So, the team is either using way too many steroids, hate each other, or have really gelled into a mean bunch of S.O.B.'s. (I respectfully decline to use the word "nasty" as it will appear approximately 792,491 times about this team in one sense or another in the next 10 months).

The fight was one of the bigger highlights of the game. You all should know by now that McNeil and Ragone were the firestarters and once again, as it was during the practice fight, Eric Olsen went apeshit. I know Weis publicly denounced this scuffle, but he has to be happy that this team isn't completely comprised of lay down pussies. Now if Finch- I mean Chris Stewart, gets involved... then there might be a felony issued.

Cover Band

Either our WR's can't get separation and we are in SERIOUS trouble, or our defensive backs are just that good. The DB's were hip for hip on all of our WR's for the entire day.

Gary Gray looks like a lockdown corner. I know, Tate got him on that deep ball and Kamara caught the game winner on him as well. But, the pass to Tate was as perfect as it gets and Kamara was in actuality, out of bounds on the TD catch. McNeil played extremely well and was a disruptive force for the defense. These two are on the 2 deep. That means we are just loaded at corner right now and have more depth here than we have had in at least 15 years.

The rest of the DB's played well for the most part too. McCarthy is locking down his safety spot as his main competition, Sergio Brown, did not stand out that much. Bruton is Bruton and will make a claim for A.A. status this year, and Lambert and Walls did everything they had to do. Lambert looks bigger and is playing that way with a vicious hit on Armando Allen that knocked him silly for a while.

Harrison Smith is a freak. He will see the field a lot this year and after praising McCarthy, I have to say that Smith is looking like a HUGE threat to take that spot if Kyle starts to slip. His size and athleticism will allow Brown and Tenuta to put him all over the place including in the box as another LB. 22 is for real.

Butterfingers & Milk Duds

Clausens stats are a bit misleading. 10-27? Good game? Well, he did have at least 5 if not 6 balls just out right dropped by the WR. Not only that but the refs were killing him with a penalty on a few catches and one on a TD reception by Grimes. Add that with a couple of "sacks" and you have a very good 10-27 performance.

Kamara was a big part of the drop party, but you shouldn't be too concerned. He has missed a lot of practice due to classes and is still 6'5". He'll be aight.

Dirty South

I liked what I saw from our Ca$h Money lineman. Mo Richardson led the team in tackles and looked very quick and aggressive. He needs to keep improving as the Irish need that speed off of the edge in 2008.

Ian Williams played better in my eyes than some other experts. I had contacts on. He engaged the blockers and was disruptive in his assignments. He should be the main man next year, but he will need a breather from time to time to be truly efficient.

Sam Young and Chris Stewart are running machines. What I mean is, they create superhighways for our running backs. I have no doubt that the Irish run right for the must have yardage. Flipping HUGE. Young still needs to get quicker feet and Stewart needs to get a little more mean... and then they will be better than a Crave Case from White Castle.

I Was Running

The running back situation is the same as when Notre Dame last played. Robert Hughes is the MAIN man. Do you want a nickname for him? How about "The Freight Train", or "The Chi-Town Colossal Ass Kicker"? Start to get them ready because once 2008 gets going you might need something other than "HUGHES!!!" to yell because it may be redundant after a while. He looks great. In the words of a former co-worker "The perfect balance of speed and power". The guy was talking about a truck, but so is Hughes. He cuts well, has good vision, and has that burst to put him in the second level.

The change of pace is of course Armando Allen. Allen did very well Saturday and survived a wicked hit by Lambert. But, he still did not break a long run which Irish fans are just sitting on and waiting for. I think he needs to bounce it a little more to the outside. He has a tendency to want to cut inside and then across. This gets him into trouble with the backside pursuit. Even with that fault, he still managed to turn out 50 yards on 11 carries which was on par with Hughes and his 22 for 100.

James Aldridge needs something. I'm not sure what it is, but maybe it's more carries. He was almost absent from the game it seemed at times. When he did touch it... I don't really remember anything about it.

No carries for the fullbacks... YES!

This Is The End

Well, I'm going to wrap this thing up. I already lied from what i put in the opening paragraph about not over analyzing the game, but it's hard not to do. I know i missed out on writing about a lot of what happened at the game, but I have no doubt someone somewhere has already posted it for the 17th time.

Now the long wait starts until the opening day of summer camp and the prospect of kicking ass begins. Until then, stay tuned to Subway Domer and the rest of the Irish Blogging Community as we all will surely have a few good things in store for the off-season.

Go Irish!

Recruit Like A Champion Today

Dude, we're sophomores.

Doesn't The Word "Depth", Imply Deep?

With the departure of Pat Kuntz this spring, and the future of Darrell Hand a question mark (Hand has been linked to rumors about heart problems that may end his football career) where do the Irish go to find its defensive lineman?

For argument sake, let's take Hand out of the equation even though nothing has been officially announced. This leaves the Irish with only 6 scholarship players on the defensive line for the Spring game. That includes early enrollee Freshman, Sean Cwynar. Including Sean are: DE Paddy Mullen (JR), DE Justin Brown (5SR), NT Ian Williams (SO), DE Kallen Wade (JR), and offensive line covert DT Emeka Nwankwo (SO). Of these players, only Ian Williams and Justin Brown have started for the Irish and those were due to an injury pushing them into the lineup. Not very deep, is it? For the past few years, Notre Dame has had to use a rotation system with the offensive lineman and play them for both the Blue and Gold teams. It looks like this year, the defensive line might have to play the Iron man role. This does not look good for a defense looking to improve during the second year of Corwin Browns system.

There is hope on the way however. Come summer and fall, the Irish D-Line will be infused with more talent and youth. 3 more players will be suiting up and will be looking for significant playing time due to the lack of depth...and their own talent. DE Ethan Johnson, NT Brandon Newman, and DT Hafis Williams will be ready to go and might have that impact that Freshman All-American Ian Williams had last year. Plus, Kuntz might be able to return to ND as soon as this summer. That is starting to look a lot better. The Irish are still hammering away at possible commitments from two other D-Line prospects for the freshman class with signing day only 17 days away. DE Kapron Lewis-Moore is on campus right now, and DT Mike Martin will be visiting the Irish next weekend. Both are rated as 4 stars and could be impact recruits. The Irish already have their best D-line haul in almost two decades and it could be significantly better if one OR both commit to the Irish. We will have to wait and see.

Any way you look at the situation, the Irish should be in a lot better shape come Summer. In the meantime, watch the progression of the players at the Spring game. Hopefully, they will all improve and help create a real solution to a terrible problem. Doesn't the word "depth" imply deep? Not quite yet, but soon.

Spring Into Action

- It is January people. That's right...January. It isn't August contrary to what some of you may think out there. But that's, alright. I understand how anxious some of you are about putting together starting lineups (and for you recruiting junkies: putting freshman right in the mix) and projections for the 2008 season. I get it, I'm excited too. But first things are definitely first... signing day and then spring practice culminating with the Annual Blue-Gold Game.
With that in mind, The Subway Domer is bringing you a little foretaste of the feast to come... The Spring Game. I thought I would share with you on what I would like to see Coach Weis do with the game. Last year was kind of a bore and I think with the starting QB in place, it should make for a little better spectacle. And yes, I will give you what I think will be the depth chart... for spring.

• After having not one, but two Irish coaching legends coach the game this year, I wonder what Weis has in store? I contacted Charlie and let him know that if called upon, The Subway Domer and Colonialhead would be more than ready to take the reigns. He said that he would have to get back with me. Fair enough. If not us, I would like to take a wild guess and say Aaron Taylor (somewhere Latina is shaking) and Michael Stonebreaker (somewhere the Thunder is Shaking). Why not?
• The 2008 Irish need to be more physical and become what Weis has promised us...Nasty. With that in mind , I believe the practices leading up to the game needs to take on that role. HIT,HIT,HIT! What Weis shouldn't do is something that he eluded to during the season: QB being fair game. That would just be asking for trouble, and honestly, I don't see Charlie letting it happen in practice or at the spring game. Everyone else = snot bubbles.
• In keeping with the physical theme, Spring needs to be all about competition at every position. Play the best man. With an improving depth chart, this will be a little easier to accomplish this year than last year. Next year's Spring game will really be loaded with depth, but I digress. There are still some glaring holes, most noticeably on both the O-Line and D-Line, but there is enough to make it interesting.
• Make this years game special. Meaning: include ALL special teams play. Kickoffs, punts, all of it, and do it full bore. Special teams have been very disappointing during the Weis administration if you took away Zibby, and guess what? Zibby is gone and needs to be replaced. I think we have the personnel to do it, but it MUST be practiced. Games can be won with special teams and the 2008 Fighting Irish will need all the help we can get.
• As far as the game play itself: 2 twenty minute halves. 1st team O (Blue) versus 1st team D (Gold) and 2nd team O (Gold) versus 2nd team D (Blue). Clock runs continuously until it gets inside 3 minutes and then normal game play ensues.
• Let's show up. Last year was a record setting affair. Yes the weather was gorgeous and Clausen was making his debut, but after the horrible campaign last year, let's really get behind this team and set a new attendance record. If Weis doesn't call my number for the coaching gig, I will be there. At least I think I will. I am currently in negotiations with my wife, who can't understand why the Spring game always coincides with her Birthday weekend, about my plans to attend this year. I am devising a plan for an all-girls weekend in Chicago. If any of you in the Chicago area are fans of Subway Domer and would like to see great coverage online, please send me money, tickets to a show, paid hotel reservations, gift certificates to Tiffany's, or whatever you think would help 4 gals have a great time in Chi-Town.
• Now, the depth charts for the Blue-Gold Game. Please keep in mind that these are very rough...

Blue Team

Offense
QB- Jimmy Clausen
TB- James Aldridge
TB- Robert Hughes
FB- Asaph Schwaap
TE- Will Yeatman
WR- Duval Kamara
WR- David Grimes
WR- George West
WR- Robby Parris
LT- Sam Young
RT- Paul Duncan
C- Dan Wenger
LG- Eric Olsen

RG- Chris Stewart

Defense
DE- Paddy Mullen
NT- Darrell Hand
DE- Kallen Wade
OLB- John Ryan
ILB- Scott Smith
ILB- Steve Paskorz
OLB- Mo Richardson
CB- Gary Gray
CB- Raeshon McNeil
S- Ray Herring
S- Sergio Brown

Gold Team

Offense
QB- Evan Sharpley
TB- Armando Allen
FB/TB- Luke Schmidt
TE- Mike Ragone
WR- Richard Jackson
WR- D.J. Hord
WR- Golden Tate
WR- Barry Gallup Jr.
LT- Matt Romine
RT- Taylor Dever
C- Thomas Bemenderfer
LG- Michael Turkovich
RG- Trevor Robinson
Defense
DE- Justin Brown
NT- Ian Williams
DE- Pat Kuntz
OLB- Brian Smith
ILB- Mo Crum
ILB- Toryan Smith
OLB- Kerry Neal
CB- Terrail Lambert
CB- Darrin Walls
S- David Bruton
S- Harrison Smith

So, there you have it. If you were wondering why I have Schwaap on the first team ,it was because of having Allen on the Gold squad. I thought Schmidt could play the RPN role and double as a TB/FB.

Please discuss. I would love to know your thoughts on this subject. Use the shoutbox, the comment link, or discuss in any forum you see this is placed. (I love pimping SD).

A Thought From The Tracks

I found this over at NDNation. If you don't know, these are a few of the incoming Freshman for Fall 2007. Steve Paskorz (front row left) looks like he has been eating a lot of Skunkbears...raw. I like the plaid shorts. Brandon Walker (front row middle) might turn into a psycho at kicker. What? It can happen.
Can you name all the guys pictured? BTW- What the hell is that usher doing?

Spring Fling Notes...And A Coronation Of Sorts

The Blue-Gold Game has been over for approximately 4 days and I can now finally sit down and enlighten you all of what has happened and what shall be. Please keep in mind that I speak on behalf of the ENTIRE Notre Dame Subway Alumni Association. (I am the self-appointed Emperor...voting is for wussies).

This is a bulleted breakdown of the weekend.

• The Shirt unveiling was a joke. I think it was poorly organized and the line was exhausting. Clearly a better way to sell these things, is a topic that should be discussed at the committee meetings. If you were there, you know what I mean... if you were not there, don't be at the event next year. I will update you in the future if it is safe. I do like the color. I think the slogans are cheesy. I will wear it at all the home games. Please simplify it for next year.


• Before I go into any info on the game and players, I have another complaint about ND and poor organization. I almost died of dehydration. When one is expecting between 40.000 and 55,000 guests it seems that common sense would rule that beverages should be plentiful. Especially as warm as it was. No water bottle stations? Have they gone mad? I stood in line for 20 minutes prior to the game, and during the entire halftime. I NEVER GOT SERVED. Why I followed rules and didn't bring anything in, is beyond me. But hey "Super, Smart, Elite University" Think the details out a little for next year.


• Quarterbacks. A lot of my fellow spectators in my section were confused and quite honestly upset, that the passing game was almost non-existent. I knew better. Weis already has a good idea who is top 2 QBs are and didn't need an aerial dogfight to help him out. Who those 2 are is antibody's guess (and everyone is). Clausen is one of them I am certain, flip a coin for the other. I will say that I was impressed by all the QBs, and a little disappointed in all as well. I don't think we can take anything out of this game, and why should we. Chris Olsen was once the MVP here.


• Running Backs. We've got a lot of them. One in particular was very impressive. Junior Jabbie. Weis has been talking about this kid all spring, and we finally saw what he was dishing. He cuts very well and showed good vision and a nice burst through the line. I have had a man-crush on this kid since he committed in HS. The name alone is great "Junior Jabbie from The Hun School in New Jersey". The other backs were equally impressive in their own ways. Travis Thomas is going to have a very good year. He plays with fire and guts and runs as hard as an escaped convict.He seems to have improved on his lateral movement as well. James Aldridge is going to be a huge factor for the Irish this year. James is showing signs of why he was a 5 star recruit. His legs are back and power and shiftiness go hand in hand with him. Armando Allen looks fast and is a slick runner. Let's hope we can find ways to get him in some open field.


• Wide Receivers. I am not going to even start on this subject. I don't have the heart. I will say that no routes went longer than 15 yards, so the jury is still defiantly out on this position.


• Tight Ends. Ask Lou Holtz.


• Offensive Line. They looked very good at times and poor at others. Pass blocking is a concern, but that is defiantly a technique issue. The run blocking looked very good. They play very physically. Sully got injured and will be fine. I like this group for the most part, but depth is an issue. Weis needs to keep these guys mean and what's the word...NASTY. Jeff Faine style.


• Defensive Line. The word of the day is going to be aggressive. They looked like a bunch of crazies. Laws is an animal and Pat Kuntz surprised me with his physical play. I would not be put back at all this season with a healthy rotation of players during the games. Chris Stewart is as big as Asia and could be huge, if he revs up his motor every play.


• Linebackers. Toryan Smith is going to be a legend... I can feel it. He is the biggest bad ass out there. (That includes#9). They all played pretty well. I am not sure if I am sold on John Ryan, but this is a 3-4 personnel defense, not a true 3-4. Some people were impressed with Vernaglia, but he has fooled me before. I think the starting 4 will be a mystery until the end of August.


• Secondary. What's the word again?...AGGRESSIVE. They looked a lot faster. Why? Probably because they are playing in a system where they know what the hell they are doing. They all flew around to the ball very well. Bruton of course was a key guy to watch and he didn't disappoint. ALL of the DBs looked very good and should be a strong force this year. Here's to a pass rush, huh fellas!


• Kickers. I see lots of practice showdowns in the future. We need a solid leg this year. Not sure if it's on campus just yet.

Well that's my little take on it. I need to go. Weis is blowing up my cell...everyone needs a little help. If you need more on the game, go to Blue-Gray Sky. They got a rundown of good stuff along with a very nice slide show.

Stay tuned for more coverage of ND Football this whole off-season.

Subway Domer...The Last Emperor.

Where's Ted Nugent? It's A Free-For-All...Fleming & Fauria Commit

This is getting out of control. Notre Dame received their 9th and 10th oral commitments for the incoming 2008 class. YO! I just got home from the Blue-Gold Game... now I got all this typing to do. If Charlie doesn't stop this crap, I may end up with carpel-tunnel (spelling?who cares).

I will have all my Blue-Gold Game stuff up soon, but first let me introduce you to the boys.

Darius Fleming. DE/OLB. This is what we ,as Irish fans, have been craving for a long time. A PREMIER linebacker. A CHICAGO product. And Mike Frank's favorite slang, DEPTH. After weeks of speculating, Darius made it official after speaking with coach Weis this morning before the BG game. Fleming becomes commit #9 and the 3rd linebacker. 3rd linebacker. This Corwin Brown is the real deal. Many have said that ND will take 4-5 (and maybe a 6th) linebackers this class. The spots are disappearing fast and ND has their eyes set on Arthur Brown and Steve Filer. If they land these two, pray for our opponents...seriously pray for them.

Joseph Fauria. TE. Welcome to Tight End U. AGAIN! Notre Dame received its 10th verbal commit for 2008, and its 3rd from California. 3rd from California. ND is becoming THE place to be for TEs and QBs (DEPTH, DEPTH,DEPTH)... like it should be. Joseph plays in the same league as current ND commits Anthony McDonald and Dayne Crist. Someone call Tony and Joe and tell them not to kill each other before they get to ND! Joseph is also the nephew of former Patriot tight end Christian Fauria. But don't think that just because he played for Weis that he pushed him towards ND. He was pulling for Colorado (Alma Mata) this whole time. Looks like the brains in the family are in the younger generation.

Congratulations, and welcome to the Notre Dame Family Joseph and Darius!

The Cannons Are Loaded...Crist Commits

Dayne Crist is the top quarterback in the state of California. Dayne Crist is coming to Notre Dame to play for the Irish. Sound familiar? For the 2nd year in a row ND is stealing one from the Poodle's backyard. The news leaked out from the LA Times today. Crist chose the Irish over U$C, LSU, and Stanford.He becomes the 8th verbal commit for the Irish's 2008 incoming class. The announcement was taped the other day and is prepared to run tonight on FSN at 10:30 Pacific time, but the LA Times in an eerily timed move, let the cat out of the bag today. (Mitch Mustain announced today that he will transfer to U$C).

Obviously, this is fantastic news. Now ND MUST go hard after the top-flight WRs. It's not that the Irish haven't been gunning for these kids, it's just that they haven't been pulling the trigger just yet. But with the cupboard full for at least another 4-5 years, it may make the decision easier for a few of the recruits out there.

This also adds some momentum heading into the Blue-Gold Game. There is going to be a lot of talent visiting ND this weekend, although not as much as last year, and I like the fact they are going to see some slots filling up. Rumors are flying around about Darius Flemming(LB) and Brandon Newman (NT) possibly committing this weekend as well. Is there a game going on?

Johnny Come Lately

With the Blue-Gold Game just a few days away now, I'm sure that I might be the last yahoo to post about the rosters being announced. But I just might add a little something that no one else has, so....here are a few tidbits.

• As much as Charlie had talked about a competitive game, I had originally thought that the teams would be picked almost like a pick-up game. I was of course very wrong. The trend seems to be that the Blue Squad is primarily the 1st team Offense and 2nd team Defense, while the Gold Squad is the 2nd team Offense and 1st team Defense. This is mostly true. (Just like you can be mostly dead). The lineman are forced to wear the green jerseys and play a little iron-man.
• The QBs are split up in a manner that shouts that Clausen and Jones are the top 2. I myself think Frazer is the #2 right now... but we will see. It is a disadvantage to Frazer and Sharpley to be on the Gold Squad. They have almost no one to throw to. Hord, Gallup, and Jackson are the WR, while they get both sophomore TEs (Yeatman and Reuland). By the way if you haven't heard, senior WR Darrin Bragg left the team. Good Luck son.
• Ahh the RBs. This should be a dandy of a horse race. Travis Thomas, looking to cement his starter status, will try to become the Blue-Gold Game MVP for a 2nd year in a row. Armando Allen will make his debut as "lightning in a bottle". James Aldridge will try to cap off what has been an impressive spring camp, and solidify himself as the main competition for carries with Thomas in the Fall. Another name that has been dropped quite a bit has been Junior Jabbie. Hell Yes. I love this kid and his name. Some insiders have been so impressed with his performance, that they have touted him as a starter on 90% of the other schools out there.
• Weis has Schwapp and Schmidt flipped at FB. This is probably to get Asaphs head on straight. I have heard he did not have a great spring (rusty), while Luke looked very solid.
• I think the LB situation is getting a little out of hand. Don't read too much into where what guys are where. I think this is a very fluid battle with the lone exception being Maurice Crum. I will say that I am surprised that of all the combos I have heard of the 4 LBs, not one included Toryan Smith, Mo Crum, and Joe Brockington on the field at the same time. I think those are the best guys we got and I believe with the lack of TRUE depth, they ALL should be out there.
• Keep an eye on Paul Duncan at Left Tackle. He will be key to the success of whatever QB is starting this fall.
• Also keep a SHARP eye on David Bruton. If he plays well, so should the rest of our secondary.

These are just a few thoughts about the rosters. Honestly though, I don't feel like Weis is going to tip his hat too much as to who all the starters would be. Just too many spots to be fought over. GT and Michigan got a pretty good look at us last year because most of the jobs were already won. The element of surprise ladies and gentleman. We may not know what we really have until August...what a long summer.

• Editors Note: I would love to hear from any and all of you that attend the Blue-Gold Game about your thoughts. Please E-Mail me at my address on this page. If your thought is noteworthy, I will quote and credit you.(With credit not cash).

Spring Rundown...

There has been a lot of speculation about the starting lineups for fall 2007, since shortly after the Sugar Bowl. Fortunatly, for Irish fans, nothing has been really set in stone after a few weeks of spring practice. (What the hell is these coaches problem?) There have been a few minor surprises however. Here's a rundown of stuff. Just stuff and randomly thought out, about the team and the spring practice session.

Quarterback

• Jimmy Clausen has the smoothest delivery. He has also made a few very tight throws and did a few of those while on the run.
• Zach Frazer has the strongest arm of any of the quarterbacks. He also seems to have a quiet leadership quality.
• Evan Sharpley throws a very nice ball. A few of the receivers mentioned that they prefer his throws over Brady Quinns.
• Demetrius Jones has given one of the better quotes of the off-season "Ain't no buster ever wear number 3." He has looked good from what I could tell.

Running Back

• Travis Thomas seems to have the #1 spot locked up. Has had a little trouble with blitz packages.
• James Aldridge is 100% healthy for the first time since the start of his senior year in H.S. He is pushing Thomas for the starting job.
• Armando Allen is fast. He could be VERY dangerous next year.
• Junnior Jabbie has been a pleasent surprise. He has been doing very well, but he may still be buried on the depth chart.
• Robert Hughes. Yes, Robert Hughes. He isn't on campus yet, but has been to a lot of practices. He looks like he really wants some playing time right away his freshman year.

Wide Receiver

• David Grimes has got the number 1 slot locked up.
• It appears as if George West has the #2 spot to himself. Weis said as much in an earlier presser.
• Weis also mentioned that the rest of the WR are even steven with one another.
• D.J. Hord is not looking too well. The rust needs to go bye-bye in a hurry, if he wants to nab the 3rd WR job.

O-Line

• Young RT
• Sully C
• Turkovich LG
• Duncan LT
• Carufel RG
• The line looks a lot more physical. Still some shake-ups to come I imagine.

Tight End

• Carlson is Heismanesque.

D-Line

• Looks like Pat Kuntz is going to nail down the NT job. Chris Stewart is in a boot and riding a bike.
• Laws at one end and the other side is still very much open. Dwight Stephenson has been running with the first group.

Linebackers

• Anthony Vernaglia is the big surprise here. Looks like he has a starting job at OLB. Think he's happy with the 3-4 and Corwin Brown?
• Crum and Brockington are going to shore up the middle 2 spots.
• Toryan Smith will be rotating in with Brockington. Smith has looked like a beast so far.
• John Ryan seems to have a hold at the other OLB job...but I think he will be greatly challenged by Kerry Neal this summer.

Defensive Backs

• Zibby is...well...Zibby, and looks faster. Carlson has owned him though.
• David Bruton is bigger and looks to be the leader for the other safety spot.
• Wooden and Lambert seem to have a firm grip at the corner spots.
• McNeil is rotating with Walls at the nickel position on the first team.

There you have it. Just a few notes. By the time you read this things might have changed...I'll let you know.

SUBWAY DOMER

Spring Updates

My sincere apologies to the 7 people who read this blog regularly. I have been an absentee landlord. Actually, I have been focusing most of my efforts on baseball (fantasy and the dominant Tigers) and work.

I do have some updates for the spring now that practices have been underway.

• The 4 captains were chosen and it comes as no surprise to me. Travis Thomas, Tom Zbikowski, John Carlson, and Maurice Crum. T2 and Zibby make it a 2nd year in a row which is quite the accomplishment.
• Gary Gray broke his right forearm and will be out 4-6 weeks with a cast.
• Munir Prince made the move to CB after requesting it with Coach Weis.
• Demetrius Jones is now #3. He said he never knew any "busters" to wear that number.
• Toryan Smith has looked extremely good in the drills that I have seen. They were quick glimpses, but this thought is also echoed by another reporter attending the sessions. He has also lost a little weight.
• Chris Stewart is a BIG man. Weis called him a big muchacho.
• Weis has still not named the starting QB against Georgia Tech. What the hell?

Please stay tuned for more updates. They will probably be about every other day or so until the Blue-Gold Game. I am postponing my position battles until after April 21. I will then look retrospectively at each position as opposed to trying to be Nostradamus.

Trevor Laws Says To Read Subway Domer... OR ELSE!!!

Fight Club...WR Edition

The first position battle the Subway Domer is going to analyze are the Wide Receivers. First, let me just say, this is no real attempt to say who is going to start on Saturdays this fall. All we are doing here is breaking down the spots a wee bit and putting a projection on what we would like to see. I will only be referring to the players enrolled at ND right now and available for the spring game. We have no logical dissertation of the other 15 freshman until late summer.

WIDE RECEIVER

The Players

• David Grimes
• D.J. Hord
• Robby Parris
• Richard Jackson
• Barry Gallup
• George West
• Darrin Bragg

This position has great depth. It also has a lot of questions and inexperience. The absolut lock is David Grimes. He showed a lot of promise as the 3rd WR in last years formations. He caught 26 balls for 336 yds. and 2 TD as the 4th leading receiver on the team. Those aren't great stats, but when the top 3 were Samardzija, McKnight, Walker, and Carlson- he took what he got. He made some crucial catches in the UCLA game that really elevated him.

The next 2 leading WR from last year that are returning is West and Parris. They COMBINED for 3 receptions for 21 yards and no TDs. (West did score a TD against Purdue on a WR reverse). That doesn't make me feel like jumping with joy about what lies ahead with a new QB at the helm.

However, D.J. Hord returns after missing all of last season with a torn Achilles tendon. He may be that HR threat we have all been looking for him to be. IF he really is 100%. We don't have any real information on the others and won't until after the Spring Game.

BALLERS

• Grimes
• Hord
• Jackson

I have no real reason to claim Jackson as the 3rd WR. Just a hunch that he may become a beast. I've had hunches before and it always seems 50/50.

Mitch's Take: No idea. Grimes definitely. After that the other 2 spots are a toss up. He was a worrier about Samardzija and thought he was a pile of dung the first 2 years. Was pleasantly surprised when Jeff turned out to be our best player after Quinn. He sees someone stepping up but it is way to early to tell. Ask again in October.

Spring Blizzard

Well now that National Signing Day is over and my head is healed from beating it against the wall (thank-you Greg and Chris Little and Zooker), it is time to move on to what really matters... the Blue-Gold Game.

To be played on April 21, the University should bill this like MLB does with the All-Star game..."This year, it matters." And boy will it ever. With so few returning starters on offense and a new Defensive Coordinator in Darth Brown, this years game could get darn right nasty.

In the coming days and weeks the Subway Domer is going to break down the position battles and throw those $0.02 in the mix. Also, you are going to be introduced to Mitch. Mitch is a complete cocksucker and a hardcore Fighting Irish fan. You are going to get his unique insight into what is sure to be a wild spring fling.

In case you are a moron or are a fair weather fan here is a list of positions that are up for grabs.

Offense

• Quarterback
• Running Back
• Receivers
• Guards
• Tackles

Defense

• Nose Guard
• Defensive Ends
• Defensive Tackle
• Linebackers
• Cornerbacks
• Nickelbacks (not those gay Canadians)
• Free Safety

That's a lot of shit going on! The offense might be a little easier to predict pre-spring game, but the defense should be a lot more complex. Darth Brown will probably use a hybrid 34-43, and in doing so use a lot of rotating personnel.

I look forward to diving into this mess as soon as I get my driveway clean.

Subway Domer