Wednesday, October 24, 2012

ND and the Non-Punt Return Play

Photo proof that Brian Kelly has sold out on punt returns.

The Irish defense basically stays on the field with the exception of Devonte Neal going back to field the punt. When the Irish are in this alignment they are not trying to set up any type of return. The entire effort is just to make sure BYU punts the ball.  Watch the direction the Irish punt return team is looking in the second picture as the BYU players blows past them unblocked.  They are looking at the punter as the Irish rush four.  Afraid of a fake punt?  BYU would be crazy doing that inside their own 20 yard line leading 14 to 10.  The Irish would have been smarter rushing ten to attempt a block.  We can make out; Manti Te'o, Danny Spond, Bennett Jackson, StephonTuitt, Lewis Nix and Kapron Lewis-Moore in the photos, it's the defense.


It looks like about 4 and 5 from the 30.  Not very good odds for a fake punt.


Not even a good effort to block the punt by the four rushing.  Afraid of a roughing the penalty call?


If Neal muffs the punt, decides not to catch it or fumbles, six BYU players are ready to pounce on the ball. 

If we are looking at these photos, don't you think OU is looking at the game film?

At the least, an opportunity to score is forfeited or a blocked punt and at the worst is a fumble and loss of possession.  History has shown this conservative play will eventually catch up to the Irish and bite them in the butt.

By the way, the Notre Dame Special Teams coordinator AND tight ends coach is Scott Booker. Who at this time last year was a graduate assistant.

GO IRISH

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