Blue & Gold Illustrated: America's Foremost Authority on Notre Dame Football
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2015 RECRUITING ISSUE improve on except for the things people always need to improve on," Sanchez said. "He needs to get a little faster, stronger and bigger, but that's for any‑ one coming out of high school. He's go‑ ing to get it done in the film room and the weight room. He works out every day and sometimes twice a day. He'll improve in the areas he needs to." Kelly expects Fertitta to vie for play‑ ing time on special teams as a freshman in 2015. "He's going to make an impact right away," Kelly said. "You'll see him on every special teams. You'll see him with the energy that he brings; he's pretty infectious to a football team. I look for‑ ward to coaching him this year." If it takes Fertitta as long to make an impact on the team as it did for Notre Dame to impact him, he should be a difference‑maker on day one. ✦ BGI FILM ANALYSIS: NICCO FERTITTA Strengths His instincts are the strongest aspect to his game … Diagnoses plays quickly and reacts well … Lacks ideal size, but makes up for it with his tough, physical, aggressive nature … A heavy hitter that plays reck- lessly … Good enough speed to play sideline to sideline … Tracks the football very well … Has the tools to end up as a nickel cornerback … Will be a terror on special teams early in his career. Areas For Improvement Will likely redshirt in year one due to his size … Needs to pack on the pounds and add mass to his lean frame … Not an immediate contributor, but will be terrific on the scout team early on.