Blue & Gold Illustrated: America's Foremost Authority on Notre Dame Football
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/462058
BY LOU SOMOGYI I n his first five seasons at Notre Dame, head coach Brian Kelly never experienced a year without quarterback drama, either because of injuries, academic issues, transfers or debates. Year six might see the soap opera reach a crescendo. Notre Dame's 31-28 Music City Bowl victory versus LSU could be classified as Kelly's finest moment on offense in his 65-game Fighting Irish career, especially considering the competition. First, there were zero Irish turnovers, and Kelly is 16-0 in such outcomes. Second, there was a physical prowess and a genuine commitment to the run with 263 rushing yards, which hereto- fore had been absent. Third, the read option was run com- fortably — also seldom seen under Kelly — opening up running and pass- ing lanes. Finally, two different quarterbacks excelled with their respective skill sets, combining to complete 18 of 26 passes for 186 yards. Ironically, the "two quarterbacks" as- pect presents the No. 1 quandary and myriad questions regarding the 2015 season. • Does Kelly use the same rotating Dual Threat Duo Everett Golson and Malik Zaire continue QB drama Golson produced the second-highest total offense output in school history with 3,728 yards (3,445 passing and 283 rushing) in 2014. PHOTO BY BILL PANZICA