Greg McElroy explains where he ranked Notre Dame in Top 10 offensive lines ranking

In June, ESPN’s Greg McElroy named Notre Dame‘s offensive line his preseason No. 1 unit in the country. McElroy didn’t hesitate to explain his lofty expectations for the Fighting Irish.

“There’s a gap between No. 1 and everybody else. I am that bullish on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. I just think they’re that good,” McElroy said. “I already like what I saw from a true freshman last year in Anthonie Knapp at left tackle. I love that you’ve seen starters from last year leave in favor of — they wanted the spot. They weren’t guaranteed the spot. They leave — because the guys that are coming back are that good.

“You lost Charles Jagusah in the preseason last year. We saw him in two games be a difference maker at guard. He’s now going to settle into that spot. Aamil Wagner gave you great reps at right tackle last year. At center, Ashton Craig got hurt in the first four games of the year. He’s now back and healthy and 100%. Then, Billy Schrauth, who I think is really, really solid there at left guard as well.”

Notre Dame’s offensive line faced a wave of injuries last year early in the season. However, the setbacks didn’t stop them from having an elite unit and reaching the national championship.

Notre Dame’s misfortune will ultimately be an advantage this fall. The team’s backups gained plenty of experience last season, while its starters who were injured in 2024 will be hungrier than ever this year. Greg McElroy doesn’t see any other trench unit in the country being able to match Notre Dame.

“Across the board, they’re starting five, I think this group has elevated beyond everybody else in college football,” McElroy said. “Frankly, I just don’t think the conversation of one is that close with whoever would be sitting there in the second spot, third spot, or what have you.”

Notre Dame’s offensive line will have a tall task ahead of it in the 2024 campaign. Quarterback Riley Leonard moved onto the NFL this offseason. Thus, the Fighting Irish will have a new QB1 to protect next season.

Perhaps more importantly, Notre Dame’s O-line will have an inexperienced QB to protect. The current favorite to start next season is CJ Carr, who made just one appearance as a freshman last season.

For Notre Dame to have another standout season, it’ll be imperative for the offensive line to give the Fighting Irish’s quarterback time to get comfortable. Notre Dame will kick off its upcoming season with a showdown against Miami on Aug. 31.