Film Don't Lie | Audric Estime
Notre Dame’s offensive identity under Tommy Rees has started with the running game. With that in mind, it makes sense for Notre Dame to continue to add backs that fit within that identity.
The Irish landed another good one in Audric Estime. He had a monster senior season and showed plenty of exciting traits that should translate very well when he arrives at Notre Dame.
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 215
Projected Position: Running back
ISD Grade: 90 (4-star)
National Average Grade: 90.8 (4-star)
What he does best:
The thing I love most about Estime’s game is that he doesn’t just fall forward on contact. He often runs through it. He has powerful leg drive and is a finisher.
Being able to maximize yardage and not go down with the first defender is critical for a back. Estime is great with that because he not only runs with power, but he has great balance as well.
None of that matters much if he doesn’t have the patience and vision as a runner to go with it. He checks those boxes and can be a bit slippery in the open field.
No one would confuse him as a burner, but it’s a great thing to see him consistently run away from defenders who have pursuit angles on him in the open field. I do like his long speed when he can build up momentum.
What he needs to improve:
Estime’s speed reminds me a little bit of Josh Adams. He doesn’t exactly have elite burst, but he can switch gears when he builds up in the open field. Some guys have that elite burst and some guys don’t, but if he can develop a little more twitch, it could go a long way for him.
His work in the receiving game is mostly on screens and check downs. That part of his game will have to grow at the next level.
What’s his ceiling?
Estime will feast on arm tackles and he shows the potential to be dynamite gaining yards after contact. It's more than just power and leg drive. He has the patience and vision to thrive as an inside runner.
I love the fit in Notre Dame's offense. He is a throwback player and Notre Dame is an old school offense when it comes to personnel. There are some questions about his versatility, but he could still develop into a bell cow for the Irish with his physicality.
I know some fans will think of Robert Hughes when watching him, but I'd dip back further and compare him to Ray Zellars if he was playing in today's college football.