‘Good issues’ ahead for retooled RB corps
SOUTH BEND —What happens when a Three-Headed Monster is temporarily reduced to a single source of dread for opponents across the land?
If you’re Notre Dame running backs coach Deland McCullough, you build a new monster.
“Everybody in that room knows how I operate,” McCullough said this spring. “I’m giving every guy an opportunity. It’s up to the dudes who are ready and prepared, which they all should be, to seize it and run with it. Then it’s up to us as coaches to figure out how to play them.”
Audric Estime, noticeably sleeker but no less imposing upon contact, looks ready to bust through the 1,000-yard barrier after averaging 5.9 yards per carry in a breakout 2022.
Logan Diggs transferred back home to LSU after producing 1,033 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns last season, but four-star talent Jadarian Price is ready to step in after missing last season with a torn Achilles.
And speedy Chris Tyree, the third member of last year’s Monster Mash, made a successful conversion to wide receiver during spring practice. Although Tyree could still make some backfield cameos, redshirt freshman Gi’Bran Payne and Penn State grad transfer Devyn Ford offer similar breakaway threats and return-game talent.
Ford, aka “Tsunami,” had 666 career rushing yards with the Nittany Lions plus 103 yards on 20 receptions. He averaged 20.6 yards on 17 returns in 202021.
And don’t forget four-star signee Jeremiyah Love, who arrived in June and offers blazing speed as well.
“Jeremiyah knows we ain’t going to
NADIA ZOMORODIAN/NEWS-JOURNAL
Depth chart
13 | RB | Gi’Bran Payne | 5-9, 208 | So. (4L)
24 | RB | Jadarian Price | 5-10, 206 | So. (4L)
22 | RB | Devyn Ford | 5-11, 200 | GrTr (2L)
12 | RB | Jeremiyah Love | 6-0, 197| Fr. (4L)
2 | RB/WR | Chris Tyree | 5-10, 192 | Sr. (2L)
say, ‘Hey, just sit on the shelf,’ “McCullough said. “I could have played four last year. I had a situation set up where I could have actually (rotated) four guys and felt comfortable about it. We have good issues, man. Really good issues.”
Follow Notre Dame football writer Mike Berardino on social media @MikeBerardino.