It’s been about a month since Malik Zaire was handed the keys to Notre Dame’s offense, and coach Brian Kelly has seen his new starting quarterback display a strong grasp of the leadership aspect of his new permanent position.
Zaire’s leadership showed itself in December during practice for the Music City Bowl and in Notre Dame’s 31-28 win over LSU in the game. Kelly said that’s carried over into summer workouts from the rising redshirt sophomore.
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“Having him with the experience of a bowl game, being the MVP of it, obviously that bodes so well not only for his confidence, but the entire team knows that he’s capable of leading,” Kelly said Tuesday at his youth Under Armour Football ProCamp at Marist High School. “This summer has been one where he’s been pushed out front and he’s taken the roles of leadership. So we’re excited about his opportunity now to lead our football team.”
Kelly admitted he was a little surprised at Everett Golson’s decision to transfer last month. During spring practice, Kelly said Golson had given him “no indication” he was eyeing an exit from Notre Dame, though he later admitted he and his coaching staff had considered the possibility. After throwing for 3,355 yards and accounting for 37 touchdowns — but also 22 turnovers — in 2014, Golson is in Tallahassee to play his final year of college ball at Florida State.
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Kelly wished his former quarterback well when asked about him.
“It’s behind us now as a football team, but we’re excited where he’s got an opportunity where he feels like he’s got a chance to be the starter,” Kelly said. “He was going to have to compete for a starting position at Notre Dame and Everett leaves Notre Dame with a degree and we’re happy for him and wish him the best.”