Coach Kelly talks quarterbacks, challenges against Virginia Tech


This weekend the Notre Dame football team is taking on 24th ranked Virginia Tech in Lane Stadium. Head Coach Brian Kelly held a press conference Monday to discuss Saturday's challenges.

The latest depth chart has Ian Book listed as the official starter. No longer using "or Brandon Wimbush."  

Book was named the Maxwell Player of the Week for his performance against Stanford where Book passed for 278 yards and 4 touchdowns.

"I like that he wins. The more in-depth would be he has certainly created a confidence level amongst the entire unit.  And whether it's escapability [sic], where he can sense the rush and that builds a confidence level with your offensive line. Wide receivers knowing that they're going to get the football in a position where they can run after the catch. I could go on and on and on," Coach Kelly said.

Virginia Tech will be playing a new quarterback after losing started Josh Jackson to injury.

The back-up, Ryan Willis, makes his 2nd start this week.  

The Kansas transfer won ACC Player of the Week for his performance against Duke where he passed for 332 yards and 3 touchdowns.

The Hokies were stunned by unranked Old Dominion 2 weeks ago- but bounced back for a strong performance over then 22nd ranked Duke on the road.  The Hokies now return home to host the Irish.  Lane Stadium is known to be an intimidating environment- the toughest place Notre Dame will play since Miami last season.

"I think I was public in saying that I don't think I even handled it the right way and giving them enough information about the situation. I can't be caught off guard. And maybe I was the one that was caught off guard because I didn't prepare them the right way.  We won't be caught off guard going into Lane Stadium," Coach Kelly said.

Saturday's game kicks off at 8:21 p.m. on ABC57.

You can watch ABC57 Saturday Kickoff from 7 - 8 p.m. on ABC57.

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