Martini Looking Forward to Return
Written by Alec Swain
After sitting out last week’s contest against USC, Greer Martini is back and ready to go for the Irish. After an impressive defensive showing by Tevon Coney in Martini’s absence, it will be interesting to see the number of snaps Martini gets this weekend against a tough NC State team.
“During the bye week I was in an ST (Special Teams0 drill and basically tore my meniscus,” explained Martini. “I had surgery last week. They repaired it, and I am a full go. I had practiced all yesterday. Didn’t take any reps off. And I’m feeling really good.”
Martini’s injury last week brought up some depth concerns as to who would come in for Coney when he needed a breather. There was a discussion about Jamir Jones having to play an increased role, and some even presented the idea of Bilal or Tranquill moving inside. Now, the focus will be on maintaining Martini’s health and ensuring he is not over-used in Saturday's contest.
The Notre Dame fanbase may have been concerned with the lack of depth behind Coney going into the USC game, but he quickly put those concerns to rest on the first defensive play of the game. It was clear Coney came to play.
“It was excellent,” Martini exclaimed. “Tevon played an excellent game. I really was happy to have him get out there and do such a great job for us.”
Coney will have to be effective this week as well with a dangerous Wolfpack team looking to dismantle the Notre Dame playoff hopes. Even if Martini is not a full 100%, it will be important for both linebackers to be disruptive against one of the nations most efficient quarterbacks.
“I think they are really good at what the do,” mentioned Martini. “They have a lot of misdirection with their stuff. They’re pretty sound at what they do. They don't turn over the ball. I think they have three turnovers. The quarterback is really good with his progressions. And so it’s going to take a lot of us to beat them, but I think we are up to the task.”
Surely, if the Irish can win this week, it would be a massive win for the Irish. With the efficiency NC State produces on offense and the stout play of their defense, a win over this NC State team would go a long way.
Thankfully, the Irish will have the home field advantage and should take all the help they can get against this team. However, whatever the outcome Irish fans should be relieved, there is no hurricane in the forecast this time around.