The Notre Dame Blue Gold Game, an annual tradition that signals the end of spring football practice, took place on April 23rd, 2022. The game, which pits the Notre Dame offense against the defense, offered fans a glimpse into the 2022 team's potential. Here are six key takeaways from the game that have significant implications for the upcoming season.
Quarterback Play: Tyler Buchner Takes the Lead
The quarterback battle, which has been a hot topic of discussion among Notre Dame fans, seemed to take a decisive turn in favor of Tyler Buchner. The sophomore quarterback, who saw limited action in 2021, impressed with his poise, accuracy, and athleticism. Buchner completed 12 of 17 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his ability to lead the offense.
In contrast, his competitors, Drew Pyne and Ron Powlus III, struggled to find their rhythm. Pyne, who started the game, completed just 5 of 12 passes for 67 yards, while Powlus III was intercepted twice. While the quarterback competition is far from over, Buchner's performance has given him a significant edge.
Running Back Depth
Notre Dame's running back depth was on full display during the Blue Gold Game. Logan Diggs, who saw limited action in 2021, showcased his speed and agility, rushing for 64 yards on 12 carries. Meanwhile, Audric Estime, a highly touted freshman, impressed with his physicality and power, rushing for 59 yards on 10 carries.
The Irish also got a glimpse of what they can expect from returnees Chris Tyree and Kyren Williams. Tyree, who has been dealing with injuries, showed flashes of his former self, rushing for 37 yards on 7 carries. Williams, who has been a workhorse for the Irish, rushed for 45 yards on 11 carries.
Wide Receiver Competition Heats Up
The wide receiver competition, which has been a hot topic of discussion among Notre Dame fans, took a significant turn during the Blue Gold Game. Lorenzo Styles Jr., who had a breakout freshman season, continued to impress, hauling in 4 passes for 67 yards.
Meanwhile, freshman Tobias Merriweather, who has been generating buzz, showcased his athleticism and speed, hauling in 3 passes for 52 yards. Deion Colzie, another highly touted freshman, also impressed, hauling in 2 passes for 27 yards.
The Irish also got a glimpse of what they can expect from returnees Braden Lenzy and Kevin Austin Jr. Lenzy, who has been dealing with injuries, showed flashes of his former self, hauling in 2 passes for 23 yards. Austin Jr., who has been a reliable target, hauled in 2 passes for 21 yards.
Tight End Play
Notre Dame's tight end play was a major storyline during the Blue Gold Game. Michael Mayer, who has been a reliable target for the Irish, hauled in 4 passes for 63 yards. Meanwhile, Kevin Bauman, who has been dealing with injuries, showcased his athleticism and speed, hauling in 2 passes for 21 yards.
The Irish also got a glimpse of what they can expect from freshman Eli Raridon, who impressed with his physicality and power. Raridon hauled in 2 passes for 27 yards, showcasing his potential as a receiving threat.
Defensive Line Depth
Notre Dame's defensive line depth was on full display during the Blue Gold Game. The Irish, who have been dealing with injuries, got a glimpse of what they can expect from returnees Isaiah Foskey and Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa. Foskey, who has been a workhorse for the Irish, showcased his athleticism and speed, recording 2 tackles and a sack.
Meanwhile, Tagovailoa-Amosa, who has been dealing with injuries, showed flashes of his former self, recording 2 tackles and a sack. The Irish also got a glimpse of what they can expect from freshmen Will Schweitzer and Tyson Ford. Schweitzer, who has been generating buzz, recorded 2 tackles and a sack, showcasing his potential as a pass-rushing threat.
Secondary Play
Notre Dame's secondary play was a major storyline during the Blue Gold Game. The Irish, who have been dealing with injuries, got a glimpse of what they can expect from returnees Kyle Hamilton and Cam Hart. Hamilton, who has been a workhorse for the Irish, showcased his athleticism and speed, recording 2 tackles and an interception.
Meanwhile, Hart, who has been dealing with injuries, showed flashes of his former self, recording 2 tackles and a pass break-up. The Irish also got a glimpse of what they can expect from freshmen Philip Riley and Chance Tucker. Riley, who has been generating buzz, recorded 2 tackles and a pass break-up, showcasing his potential as a cover corner.
Now that the Blue Gold Game has come to a close, Notre Dame fans can finally start to look forward to the 2022 season. While there are still many questions to be answered, one thing is certain – the Irish have a talented roster that is capable of making a deep run in the playoffs.
Let us know in the comments what you thought of the Blue Gold Game! Share your thoughts on the quarterback competition, running back depth, and defensive line play.
FAQ Section:
Who was the standout player in the Blue Gold Game?
+Tyler Buchner was the standout player in the Blue Gold Game, completing 12 of 17 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown.
What was the most impressive aspect of the game?
+The most impressive aspect of the game was the quarterback play, particularly from Tyler Buchner, who took a significant lead in the competition.
What are the expectations for the 2022 season?
+The expectations for the 2022 season are high, with many predicting a deep run in the playoffs. However, the Irish still have many questions to answer, particularly at quarterback.