Recruiting is the lifeblood of college football. No team succeeds at an elite level without it. This has always been the case.
But what hasn’t always been the case is the monetization of the recruiting industry.
Recruiting coverage is now a multi-billion dollar-per-year industry with no sign of slowing down aided by advanced technology and social media.
Notre Dame is in a tough spot when it comes to modern recruiting.
How can the Irish not sacrifice their value systems to land top talent when it seems other teams play by different rules
and take shortcuts to success such as “pay for play” and having essentially no academic restrictions whatsoever?
This is a tight needle to thread but it can be done.
Let’s take a look at 5 changes I think Notre Dame can make to be more competitive on the trail without sacrificing the morals Irish fans cherish.
1. Academic Requirements For High School Recruits 2. Undergraduate Transfer Eligibility 3 . Big & Bold NIL 4. Facilities 5. Attitude
Notre Dame is religious, family-oriented, and mild in demeanor compared to most football schools socially.
This is a part of the charm of Notre Dame. A part of what makes it feel like a close-knit family. Fans respect this.
It makes Notre Dame stand out. If there is a downside to this quaint vibe, however, It’d be in attitude. Too many times I feel that Irish players are quite frankly, too nice.
I don’t see the same desire to win at all costs on the field from Irish teams than I see from others around the country that seem to be more highly motivated to destroy the enemy.
If Notre Dame is to succeed in the modern playoff era, they will need to ensure there is a certain amount of “dogs” on the team.
If you know where the open roads are going to take you, choosing an RV will be a little easier.