Notre Dame Impresses the Smith Twins Once Again

Notre Dame hosted its first Junior Day of 2023 and two of the biggest visitors of the day were the Smith twins as the Irish look to bolster the defensive line. 

2024 Loomis Chaffee School (Conn.) defensive end Jacob Smith‍ and defensive lineman Jerod Smith‍ got their first look at Notre Dame over the summer and entered Saturday’s visit having a good feel for the Irish program. The goal for the twins was to spend time with Al Washington and the rest of the defensive staff to get a true feel of the day-to-day life. 

“Nothing surprised me,” said Jerod Smith. “I saw everything last time, so this trip was spent mostly with the coaches.” 

The twins were able to spend the day with Washington and a portion of the day was spent in the film room. Washington was able to break down film and show the Smith’s how even the smallest details matter. 

“He told us the little details matter,” Jacob Smith stated. “And to stay strong mentally.” 

Washington also made it crystal clear where the Smiths stood on his board as well. 

“I enjoyed the whole trip a lot,” Jerod Smith explained. “A highlight was getting to sit down with Coach Wash and review tape. 

“His message was telling us how important we are to him. He loves the way we can play ball.” 

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman also got plenty of time with the twins. Freeman’s message wasn’t selling the Smiths on Notre Dame, but rather making sure both prospects knew what the university had to offer. 

“This school is more than football,” stated Jacob Smith. “He was talking about what we could accomplish there.” 

The Smiths also enjoyed their time around most of Notre Dame’s 2024 commits throughout the day. And yes, the twins admitted they could see themselves fitting well into Notre Dame’s class after getting a feel for the Irish commits. 

“I feel like it’s a good group of kids and they can’t do anything, but get better,” Jacob Smith said. 

And Jerod also echoed the same feelings. 

“I feel I would fit in well,” stated Smith. 

When it comes to a timeline on when they want to release a top group or commit, the Smiths were keeping it close to the chest. 

“Can’t really say anything at the moment,” said Jacob Smith. 

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