Top 5 Defenders of 2011

Earlier this week we visited our top 5 special team players going into 2011 now we will visit the defensive side of the ball. Please make sure to comment and tell me  your opinion.

 

5. Prince Shembo

Shembo had a nice freshman campaign. Two things were obvious, the first is that Shembo’s upside is huge, and can be an All American by the team he leaves South Bend. The Second is the coaching staff did not have full confidence with him against  most teams and made sure Prince had on training wheels during the season. This year look at him to take the training wheels off and become a terror!

 

4. Gary Gray

Ever since he commited to ND, Gray has been one of my favorite players, I was disheartened when rumors of his transfer were circulating. He has come a ling way and he is now the old man on the mountain, much like Chris Stewart was last year. Look for Gray to lead the team in interceptions. (I’m calling it now)

 

3. Louis Nix III

Of course Irish Chocolate would be on this list, the only thing that can stop the Nix is Nix himself, if he comes into camp in shape look at Nix to start destroying QB’s. I cannot wait for him to get up and personal with Dernard Robinson!!!

 

2. Harrison Smith

Smith much like Gray has had an up and down career at ND. He started off as Safety then moved to linebacker, than back to Safety. He provides leadership and talent. Even though I’m picking Gray to lead the team in INTs this year look for Smith to have a great year!!

 

1. Manti Teo

Of course Teo is the number 1 player on this list, He probably will be a first round draft pick if he decides to leave after this year and I will say this if he stays for a fourth year he will be considered the greatest linebacker in Notre Dame’s History.  This is the year he puts everything together and becomes a monster!!!!

 

 

Article by Adam Jimenez
NDFanclub.com