247Sports predicts multiple Notre Dame stars will be contending for major awards
Not only have the preseason All-American teams being dropped, it now time to turn to who could be bringing home the individual hardware in December. With the Irish having multiple players who are being named to said All-American teams, it makes sense to see them pop up on these type of lists as well. Find out below with Irish stars that Will Backus of 247Sports believes will either win a national award or be in contention for.
Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Mike on Twitter: @MikeFChen
Mackey Award - tight end Michael Mayer
Although Backus doesn’t believe that Mayer will win the award given out annually to the nations top tight end, the ultra-talented Irish tight end will surely be in the mix.
GLENDALE, ARIZONA – JANUARY 01: Michael Mayer #87 and Jack Coan #17 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrate after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Oklahoma State Cowboys during the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on January 01, 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Rimington Trophy - center Jarrett Patterson
Unlike the Mackey, Backus has Patterson taking home this award. It’s a mix of great pass blocking and equally great run blocking that gives Patterson a leg up on his peers. “With Patterson’s experience and ability, he is overdue for some serious postseason recognition,” noted Backus.
Notre Dame offensive lineman Jarrett Patterson (55) plays against Navy in the first half of an NCAA college football game in South Bend, Ind., Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Outland Trophy - Patterson again
If Backus is correct, Patterson will come up just short of winning this one, who is given to the nations best interior lineman, regardless of what side of the ball they play on. Either way, Backus thinks that the Irish center is in line for a huge season.
Jan 1, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Jarrett Patterson (55) against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the 2022 Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Thorpe Award - safety Brandon Joseph
This one is a toss-up for Backus, as he claims it “was easily the hardest one to project on this list.” That means that his three finalists, Joseph included could bring this one back to South Bend.
— Brandon Joseph (@BrandonJoseph_1) June 28, 2022
