‘He’s a tough dude that has really worked his way to be a good player’ – Notre Dame HC Marcus Freeman admires key Irish defender
Notre Dame football avoided another tough blow on Saturday during the 52-3 victory over Florida State when All-American defensive tackle Howard Cross III left with an injury. Head coach Marcus Freeman was available for the media on Monday, and announced that the ankle injury was not a serious one, which was great news. Cross is […]
Notre Dame football avoided another tough blow on Saturday during the 52-3 victory over Florida State when All-American defensive tackle Howard Cross III left with an injury. Head coach Marcus Freeman was available for the media on Monday, and announced that the ankle injury was not a serious one, which was great news. Cross is expected to just miss one week of action.
In Cross’ place, junior Donovan Hinish took over the majority of his reps at nose tackle and flourished in that role. Hinish ended the day with five total tackles, two tackles for loss, and two sacks. It was by far his most productive performance in the blue and gold, coming into that contest with just half a sack on the season.
Coach Freeman was asked about Hinish and his performance during the media availability. He was very complimentary of what the talented defensive line showcased despite being a size outlier.
“Donny might not be 6-3 or 6-4 but we know what we are getting out of him. Part of it is the way he was raised. He’s a tough dude that has really worked his way to be a good player. He plays that way. We aren’t just going to take a bunch of undersized defensive tackles but the ones we do take are going to have to have an impact. Both Howard (Cross) and Donny both have had a huge impact.”
After being a solid contributor this season, Hinish looked like a completely different player against Florida State. Obviously, the box score was impressive, but his actual play was even better. Hinish looked explosive, slippery, and relentless throughout the contest.
Considering he is the younger brother of former Irish standout, and current Houston Texans defensive lineman Kurt Hinish, it isn’t overly shocking that “Donny” is turning into a good player for Notre Dame. It is very encouraging, however, to see him developing into a style. With Cross out, they need a way to supplant the loss of a notable penetrator.
If Hinish is able to take this opportunity, and continue to develop, it will make for a really impressive defensive line down the stretch of the season. Pass rush has been a slight issue throughout the season, but the team may have found some answers against the Seminoles during their eight-sack performance.
