Total Breakdown: Marcus Freeman broke down in tears when he broke the awful news about this important player and provided a heartbreaking update.
In an attempt to go to 4-0, Notre Dame is getting ready for their Saturday afternoon matchup with Central Michigan. Following Saturday’s 45-24 victory over North Carolina State, Marcus Freeman revealed that captain and senior linebacker JD Bertrand had suffered a brain injury.
During his weekly news conference, Freeman gave an update on Bertrand’s condition and those of a few other players who were having issues.
Can Bertrand make it to the game on Saturday? And how are some of the others faring with their injuries recovery?
The updates Marcus Freeman provided on a few players on Monday are listed below.
J.D. Bertrand
“JD Bertand has entered the concussion protocol.” TBD regarding Saturday.
In the Notre Dame press release from Monday, Bertrand was still ranked first on the depth chart at middle linebacker, but it clearly doesn’t mean he will play or not. To put it simply, don’t rush things to have him ready for Central Michigan; instead, get it properly and ideally he’ll return for Ohio State.
This week, Gabe Rubio is off. Eli Raridon is making strides. He probably won’t return this week. There might be both physical and psychological effects from a second ACL tear. You can’t push it till he feels that way 100% of the time.
Devyn Ford
“Devyn Ford is wrapping up his concussion treatment. He should return on Saturday.
That one should go without saying. Ford will once more add a fifth head to the outstanding bunch of running backs at Notre Dame.
Gabe Rubio
“This week, Gabe Rubio is out.”
Rubio will miss one more game due to a knee ailment. Without knowing the extent of the injury, thoughts immediately shift to Ohio State the following week, where the defensive line will need to perform very well to contain the Buckeyes’ offensive.
Eli Raridon: The Narrow End
“Eli Raridon is making strides. He probably won’t return this week. There might be both physical and psychological effects from a second ACL tear. You can’t push it till he feels that way 100% of the time.
Raridon gives Notre Dame more depth at tight end, but he won’t make or break the position group. The psychological effects of suffering such a serious injury twice in a short period of time are genuine, and hopefully Rardion can recover and become the gifted player he was before coming to South Bend, whenever that may be.
