With the ACC affiliation providing a media push in national and local media markets, Virginia prospects will be more likely to learn about, hear about, and hear from, Notre Dame.
It’s one thing for prospects to know the Notre Dame name through NBC, it’s quite another thing to constantly read about Notre Dame in the local newspaper or through a local online media outlet such as the Richmond Times-Dispatch or the Roanoke Times. Those Virginia newspapers, along with other ACC area media outlets, will now be covering Notre Dame much closer than before the announcement that the Irish would join the ACC.
Notre Dame recruiting will benefit within the state of Virginia, and should benefit quite soon. Based on this year's class and whee it's headed, Notre Dame will go heavy with defensive linemen for the class of 2014. It just so happens that Virginia will be absolutely loaded with big defensive linemen next year. In fact, Rivals.com lists six of Virginia’s top ten players for the class of 2014 as being defensive linemen.
Da’Shawn Hand, DE, 6-5, 245, Woodbridge – Arguably the top prospect in the nation, Brown fits what Notre Dame wants on and off the gridiron. He’s the Manti Te’o recruit for 2014: very well spoken, humble, and extremely gifted as a pass rusher. Offers from across the country, Notre Dame included.
Andrew Brown, DT, 6-4, 290, Chesapeake (Oscar Smith) – During many years, Brown would be the no. 1 player in Virginia. He would be a great fit for Notre Dame’s 3-4 defense. He’s a true power player.
Jalyn Holmes, OLB, 6-5, 225, Norfolk (Lake Taylor) – Finding a future home will be challenging, but that’s a good thing. Holmes could grow into a down lineman, but he’s athletic enough to be an outside linebacker for Notre Dame’s 3-4 defense.
Quin Blanding, S, 6-2, 195, Virginia Beach (Bayside) – The complete safety, Blanding covers the deep pass by utilizing his speed and instincts to turn his head and locate the football, catches the football well, makes plays after the interception, and he hits like a strong safety should. Notre Dame became involved with his recruitment long ago.
Some Other Highly Regarded 2014 Virginia Prospects To Remember
Travon McMillian, QB/ATH, 6-0, 190, Woodbridge (C.D. Hylton)
Derrick Dnadi, DT, 6-1, 310, Virginia Beach (Ocean Lakes)
Jamil Kamara, WR, 6-2, 195, Virginia Beach (Catholic)
Nyquan Harris, DT, 6-3, 285, Norfolk, VA (Lake Taylor)
C.J. Reavis, S, 6-0, 195, Chester, VA (Thomas Dale)
