Kelly and his Fighting Irish are facing a wide spectrum of expectations as the team prepares for its season opener in less than three weeks. Some have picked the Irish to play in the College Football Playoff. Others have projected the Irish to settle for a New Year’s six bowl. Others yet think the Irish will be lucky to win 9 games.
Win total aside, what the Irish need the most from this season is stability.
Last year, major question marks surrounded the quarterback position. After Everett Golson transferred to Florida State, many wondered if Malik Zaire would live up to expectations to lead the Fighting Irish to a return to glory.