Notre Dame Football: 5 Questions Heading Into 2015

5 Questions Heading Into 2015:

1- Will Everett Golson stay in South Bend?

Questions surrounding Golson have been as common as the gold paint application on his helmet: just part of the persona.

From his academic suspension to uncharacteristic play in 14'- the embattled passer is now faced with stiff competiion from Malik Zaire. And shortly after the Music City Bowl win over LSU, in an instant- Golson's name was attached to a variety of SEC schools as a possible landing spot for 2015.

He is from the south, is scheduled to graduate in May, and carries a 5th year transfer option.

It would not shock people if he transfered.

It would equally comfort some knowing Everett runs out the tunnel come September.

2- Who starts at quarterback when Texas rolls into South Bend?

Best case scenerio is that Golson stays in South Bend as sort of a self-imposed punishment.

He has tons to prove to his team and coaches- and the university that has afforded him another day to walk the campus.

His spring game has been sparkling and precise. And as much as many would cast him aside in favor of Zaire- Golson still commands the starting role.

Even after last seasons dismal performances at times, he sparks something.

Perfect?

Far from it.

But unless Zaire parts the reflection pool beneath the Hesburgh Library (Touchdown Jesus for those that need reminded)-Golson starts.

3-Are there to many quality backs on roster?

No and yes.

Tarean Folston will start and Greg Bryant will share time as he also could be fielding punts.

And incoming 1st year players Dexter Williams and Josh Adams could see some limited time.

And now CJ Prosise has elevated his status on the chart while performing like a veteran during spring.

He's got second level speed the rest may be missing and his size is a huge bonus.

In all, the Irish are no longer thin in the backfield.

Question will be just how each is utilized.

4- Will the Irish pose a threat on the defensive line?

Yes.

The names of Sheldon Day, Jarron Jones and Jay Hayes will be common this season.

With a linebacking unit tops in the nation and added depth in the secondary- the line will push towards 2012 type numbers unlike last season.

The faces many see often off the edge and up the middle will be new to many.

Andrew Trumbetti, in his second season- will provide the Irish with some Aaron Lynch type plays.

1st year offensive line flip Jerry Tillery has progressed from the other side of the line in such a manner that it's likely his snap count could reach double digits. And he has enough strength and hand technique to provide offensive lines with difficulties.

As is the case with so many backs to choose from, the line on defense will have ample talent and depth to spike their sack totals this season.

5- Can the Irish 'Play Like Champions' this season?

Play?

Yes.

Can they become champions?

The parts are there.

From an upgraded coaching staff, to depth on both sides of the ball, coupled with 2 capable field generals in Zaire and Golson- the Irish will win some games on talent alone.

The schedule poses problems again with just the names of Texas and USC.

Stanford is never a cake walk.

Clemson is on tap.

And a possible upset always lurks.

All things considered, the Irish will have the best team they've had in years- to include the 2012 squad.

This is truth and not just hype:

-They have atleast 4 NFL players on defense this year in Jaylon Smith, Sheldon Day, KeiVarae Russell, Jarron Jones and Ishaq Williams- if he plays

-Wide receiver Will Fuller is one of the nations 'elite' players

-The backfield will produce a 1000 yard rusher complimented by solid play from atleast 2 more

-A 1st year kicker in Justin Yoon is deadly accurate from 45 yards

And the quarterback will not suffer from ineptness where talent goes and shear ability to control games.

The Irish have all the pieces to atleast contend.

Now they must glue it all together.