2022 S Jake Pope Leaves Notre Dame Super Impressed by Irish

2022 Buford (Ga.) safety Jake Pope‍ got his first look at Notre Dame over the last 48 hours as he made his way to South Bend for an official visit. 

The four-star prospect was familiar with the program before the visit but was blown away by how Notre Dame provides opportunities off the field. 

“Once I saw in-depth how they network for people and how well of an education they provide, I was sold on that 100 percent,” Pope told ISD. “The campus also blew me away. It’s the nicest campus I’ve seen ever in person.”

Pope was also impressed by the Notre Dame defensive staff as it was his first time getting to meet face-to-face.

Safeties coach Chris O’Leary, defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman and analyst Nick Lezynski all made positive and lasting impressions on the Buford star.

“We had some great talks,” explained Pope. “Some were fun and some were more serious about how they see me fitting in and expressing how much they want me. I feel only 100 percent love from these coaches and they are also going to get the job done on the field with how smart they are.

“I love them both and have huge relationships with both of them. I can’t forget Coach Lezynski though, he was the first person to ever reach out to me about Notre Dame and we have a great relationship as well.”

Notre Dame also made Pope’s parents feel at home during the trip as they were provided all the information they were looking to see and hear from the program.

“My parents are in love with Notre Dame,” stated Pope. “It’s everything they could see in a school and they even said they wish they could experience time at Notre Dame themselves.” 

And yes, Pope got time with the nation’s top safety this weekend as he was hosted by a fellow Georgia native. 

“Kyle Hamilton was my host,” Pope stated.  “With both of us being from Georgia, we can relate to a lot of things. He’s a baller and a great person to learn from. He talked to me all about Notre Dame while I was on my visit.”

Pope will visit Ohio State next weekend and Alabama will be his final official this month and he expects to have a decision sooner than later.

“My commitment will most likely be in the next couple weeks,” said Pope.