UNDER THE DOME
past two seasons with
shoulder problems.
Those are the uncer-
tainties that don't pro-
vide complete clarity yet
to scholarship counts.
There have been many
years recently where
there was handwring-
ing about not having
enough spots on the ros-
ter for potential recruits.
What ended up happen-
ing instead is there was
still room for prospec-
tive fifth-year seniors
who weren't expected to
return but did, includ-
ing wide receiver John
Goodman in 2012, nose
guard Tyler Stockton
in 2013 and defensive
tackle Justin Utupo this
season. Utupo has seen
regular action on the
young defense this sea-
son and started versus
Louisville Nov. 22.
K e l l y a l s o i n v i t e d
holder/receiver Luke
Massa for a fifth season,
but he opted for an ex-
cellent business oppor-
tunity — and everyone
in 2014 suddenly better
appreciated the value of
a holder during the sea-
son.
Seldom have we ever
seen Notre Dame have
to turn away a top pros-
pect who wants to come
here. If it really wants
him, space generally will
be found. It has been a
greater issue to get to 85
full scholarships than
getting past 85. ✦
Nickel back Matthias Farley would provide much experience to the 2015 defense if he wishes to return for
a fifth season.
PHOTO BY BILL PANZICA
