Photo by Rick Kimball/ISD
Notre Dame Football
Hayes and Defense Adjusting Well to Elko
August 13, 2017
6,600
Brian Kelly’s defenses have evolved quite a bit since he arrived in South Bend. The Irish were a conservative defense under Bob Diaco but then went to an aggressive defense under Brian VanGorder.
Notre Dame had success at times with both schemes, but new defensive coordinator Mike Elko might be the force that combines both styles in a system in a way his players understand.
“We’re being put in a position to be productive with the scheme that Coach Elko provides,” defensive end Daelin Hayes stated on Saturday. “It allows the defensive line to get around the ball and make plays.
“It’s a new scheme. It’s putting us in a position to make plays. We’re playing fast, confident, and know our assignments. We’re playing at a high level. We have to continue to do that every day and take those steps.”
The ability for Elko to connect to his defensive players has been welcoming and could pay dividends when the season arrives in three weeks.
“I love his energy,” said Hayes. “He’s a funny guy. There is an understanding between what is expected and how he wants us to go out and play. We understand how to approach each situation and being on the same page has been huge.”
While Elko will get the headlines, Mike Elston moving back to coach the defensive line could be one of the best moves made by Kelly.
“I was talking to Nyles the other day, and I think Coach Elston is the best thing that could have happened for the defensive line,” explained Hayes. “His energy, expectations, and the sense of urgency that he brings – attention to detail.
“We were a little immature, and he’s bringing that maturing process along. He’s professionalizing our work each day.”
The 6-foot-4, 258-pounder got a taste of college football last year as a pass rusher, but Hayes is looking to be an every down player this fall.
“I try to get better in every facet of my game every day,” stated Hayes. “Coach is going to put me in position, and I am going to do what I am supposed to do by playing my role. I am going to play at a high level.”
The former five-star prospect believes his defense is settling into their roles as Fall Camp progresses.
“Everyone is excited to be playing football again,” laughed Hayes. “I think getting over the hype and settling into the dog days of separating yourself from other teams is how you go about practicing every day.”
Notre Dame had success at times with both schemes, but new defensive coordinator Mike Elko might be the force that combines both styles in a system in a way his players understand.
“We’re being put in a position to be productive with the scheme that Coach Elko provides,” defensive end Daelin Hayes stated on Saturday. “It allows the defensive line to get around the ball and make plays.
“It’s a new scheme. It’s putting us in a position to make plays. We’re playing fast, confident, and know our assignments. We’re playing at a high level. We have to continue to do that every day and take those steps.”
The ability for Elko to connect to his defensive players has been welcoming and could pay dividends when the season arrives in three weeks.
“I love his energy,” said Hayes. “He’s a funny guy. There is an understanding between what is expected and how he wants us to go out and play. We understand how to approach each situation and being on the same page has been huge.”
While Elko will get the headlines, Mike Elston moving back to coach the defensive line could be one of the best moves made by Kelly.
“I was talking to Nyles the other day, and I think Coach Elston is the best thing that could have happened for the defensive line,” explained Hayes. “His energy, expectations, and the sense of urgency that he brings – attention to detail.
“We were a little immature, and he’s bringing that maturing process along. He’s professionalizing our work each day.”
The 6-foot-4, 258-pounder got a taste of college football last year as a pass rusher, but Hayes is looking to be an every down player this fall.
“I try to get better in every facet of my game every day,” stated Hayes. “Coach is going to put me in position, and I am going to do what I am supposed to do by playing my role. I am going to play at a high level.”
The former five-star prospect believes his defense is settling into their roles as Fall Camp progresses.
“Everyone is excited to be playing football again,” laughed Hayes. “I think getting over the hype and settling into the dog days of separating yourself from other teams is how you go about practicing every day.”
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