Mack Building Confidence Heading Into 2018

Notre Dame tight end Alizè Mack made his return to the football field in 2017 after missing the 2016 season. 

The 6-foot-4, 247-pounder recorded 19 receptions for 166 yards and one touchdown but admits he lacked focus and struggled with confidence in the first year of Chip Long’s offense. 

“I don’t think I prepared myself well enough going into games by watching film,” explained Mack. “I think my effort out there - I don’t think I gave my all.

"I’m focused on my team and my craft. Hopefully, I can show the work I put in on September 1st.”

Notre Dame’s pass game struggled at times last year, and quarterback Brandon Wimbush took most of the heat. Long has preached confidence to his offense in the offseason, and Mack has embraced it. 

“Brandon’s confidence is our confidence, and our confidence is Brandon’s confidence,” stated Mack. “It’s one of those things where Coach Long says if you believe you can break tackles, you will break tackles. If you believe you can catch the ball, you will catch the ball. 

“It’s about confidence in yourself.”

For Mack, it was easy to buy into Long’s message as they have made time to get to know each other away from the football field. 

“Spending more time with him off the field and getting a chance to understand who Chip Long is to build an Alizè and Chip relationship,” Mack said of the differences in his relationship with his offensive coordinator and position coach. “It gave me more passion to go out and fight for him.”

As Mack’s confidence has grown, the reps and responsibilities have increased, which also means more time in the film room.

“It’s definitely expanded,” Mack said of his role. “I’m getting more reps, and more is expected. Last year, I was focused on little packages and certain plays. Now, I have to make sure I understand the whole offense.

“Once you understand the concepts, you know what the No. 1 receiver, No. 2 receiver and No. 3 receiver is doing and what Brandon is seeing. You understand how the offensive line is moving and you pick it up pretty fast.” 

The more significant role has given Mack more confidence, and that’s led to better relationships all the way around. 

“There was a lot going on last year,” Mack stated. “I think my relationship with the quarterbacks is better, but it’s also film study and putting in the time. I think I’ve improved in having confidence on the field and I feel more comfortable with Coach Long, Brandon and all the guys playing. I feel really good.” 

Mack will look to build off his experiences last fall to have a big 2018. 

“I allowed the noise to get to me,” said Mack. “It’s about getting back to being Alizè and playing my game.” 

“You focus on your team. Coach Long tells us to dominate the day. When you do that, you take everything day by day. You focus on your team and craft, and you ignore the outside noise. The team is what matters.”