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DeShone Kizer: From Holder to Irish Hero

By Jay Siskin

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Sep 12, 2015; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback DeShone Kizer (14) celebrates after throwing the game-winning touchdown pass against the Virginia Cavaliers with twelve seconds left in the fourth quarter at Scott Stadium. The Fighting Irish won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

DeShone Kizer was once just the holder. Now as the quarterback, he leads one of the most illustrious programs in college football in their quest for glory. Sounds like a story for the ages.

DeShone Kizer is becoming a force to be reckoned with. Against Georgia Tech, Kizer showed that Zaire’s injury doesn’t have to dampen Notre Dame’s aerial attack. Kizer completed 21 of 30 passes for 242 yards with a touchdown and an interception against the Yellow Jackets. Kizer has a good foundation so far to build on.

Possessing a rare combination of size, speed, and strength, DeShone Kizer can throw, run and take a hit. He may not be as quick and elusive, or have as good of vision as Zaire, but you expect Notre Dame to use the young quarterback as a dual-threat in both the passing and running game. Kelly may not use designed runs for Kizer because of the issues on the depth chart at quarterback, but the guy can definitely use his legs if the pocket breaks down.

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While preparing as the team’s backup behind Zaire, Kizer said he would see the field at some point in 2015. He looked quite prepared while completing 8 of 12 passes against Virginia, including the pretty game-winning touchdown toss to Will Fuller that gained the respect of fans and teammates.

Notre Dame has been here before. In 2012, a similar situation occurred when some redshirt freshman starter named Everett Golson led the team to a National Championship game appearance. That team, similar to this 2015 team, has a very talented defense. Granted, the team lost to the Crimson Tide of Alabama, it gives the Notre Dame fan base hope!

Maybe 2015 will end similarly, but with a win over (insert opponent here). Kizer has the task of proving critics wrong, that he can be more than a one-shot hero against an unranked team. By the end of this season, DeShone Kizer might even become a household name. Let the DeShone Kizer cinderella story commence!

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