IB Nation Sportsbeat: What We've Learned About Notre Dame Football So Far This Spring

The Irish Breakdown podcast dives into Notre Dame football's spring practices, highlighting key developments and lingering questions. Hosts Sean and Jesse Stiers assess the offensive line, where Will Black has emerged as a standout at left tackle and Anthony Knapp’s move to guard has solidified a new starting five. They express excitement about the depth and talent across the roster, particularly at wide receiver, where a young, dynamic group including Micah Gilbert, Mylon Graham, Devin Fitzgerald, and Jerome Bettis Jr. is showing promise. The discussion turns to quarterback CJ Carr’s potential to thrive in an aggressive, vertically-oriented offense, with the hosts advocating for Marcus Freeman to trust Carr’s arm and let him push the ball downfield despite past hesitations. The lack of Jeremiah Love and Jadarian Price means Notre Dame must rely more on explosive passing plays, and the team’s new speed and depth at receiver could make that possible. Meanwhile, the lacrosse team’s upcoming showdown with top-ranked North Carolina is previewed, and the hosts reflect on the broader college basketball season, including Michigan’s first national title since 1989 and their own mild disinterest in the final game.