Blue & Gold Illustrated: America's Foremost Authority on Notre Dame Football
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rupter against the run. Crawford is a natural man defender, and his quick- ness allows him to thrive in the slot. His toughness and instincts serve him well as a run defender. FRESHMAN FREE SAFETY DEVIN STUDSTILL From the day he arrived on campus, Studstill has impressed coaches and players alike with his combination of athleticism and intelligence. The Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., native was able to quickly pick up the complex Notre Dame defense. The more comfortable he got, the faster he was able to play, which allowed him to be a productive player in practice. Studstill has pushed 23-game starter Max Redfield all spring and is a legiti- mate starting candidate. It would be a surprise if Studstill is not at least the starter in the nickel and dime defenses when fall camp kicks off. His strong spring could result in Redfield stepping up his game and providing the production Irish fans have hoped to see the last three sea- sons. If that does not happen, Studstill could very well step into the starting role on a full-time basis. JUNIOR STRONG SAFETY DRUE TRANQUILL Last September, Tranquill was on the verge of having a true breakout. In the first two quarters of Notre Dame's 30-22 victory over Georgia Tech, he was the defensive standout, racking up four solo tackles, two of them for loss. After breaking up a pass in the end zone, Tranquill leaped into the air in celebration. When he landed, his right knee buckled, ending his season. It was the second straight season- ending knee injury Tranquill suffered at Notre Dame and raised inquiries about not only his ability to stay healthy, but also who would step into the starting strong safety position va- cated by Shumate's graduation. He is still not back to full speed, but Tranquill has stayed healthy this spring. Plus his knack for making plays on the ball and delivering big hits makes him a hybrid figure on the edge, or even in the box like a linebacker be- cause of his skill set and flexibility. JUNIOR DEFENSIVE END JAY HAYES Redshirted last season to aid his de- velopment, Hayes played both strong- side end and defensive tackle during his first two seasons — but halfway through spring practice he was moved to weakside end to complement class- mate Andrew Trumbetti, possibly the team's top pass rusher. "If it's a power team, you will prob- ably see Jay more," line coach Keith Gilmore said. "If it's a finesse team, then you probably will see Andrew more." Hayes spent the spring showing off the quickness, athleticism and play- making ability that made him a highly sought after recruit in the 2014 class. At nearly 290 pounds he is not ideally suited for the weak side, but his burst off the edge has allowed him to make plays throughout the spring. His ability to play multiple positions should benefit the defense, but his pro- duction potential is what the defense truly needs. ✦