The rushing totals (and averages) Aldridge, Hughes, and Allen put up last year are more than respectable as shown here.That isn't to say all three backs don't have room for improvement (as discussed here). But the depth, talent, and competition at this position should pay huge dividends for the Irish over the next two years. Many are quick to jump on the Hughes bandwagon after a few very good games late in the season. It is important to remember the level of competition the Irish were facing in those games.

It is also important to remember that Aldridge and Allen both averaged around four yards per carry in 2007. All three are very capable backs with different attributes that should be utilized by a good offensive gameplan. The running back position, with improved offensive line play and more opportunities, will be a break-out position for Notre Dame in the 2008 season.At fullback the Irish have the bruising Asaph Schwapp and the more agile Luke Schmidt. Schwaap, at times, took a step back in his play last year, but it is tough to not like his attitude and toughness. Schmidt drew rave reviews out of high school, having great speed for his size. If he can develop in the passing game the Irish could have another weapon for defenses to contain coming out of the backfield.Fullback isn't a position typically featured in a Weis offense. As such, Schwapp and Schmidt aren't likely to make a huge impact next year.Wide ReceiverThe wide receiver position should be a strength of the Fighting Irish in 2008.

No other position on the Irish roster has so many players with good to great talent. The top receivers from last season all return in David Grimes, George West, Robbie Parris, Duval Kamara, and Golden Tate. Additionally, Weis and his coaching staff brought in what is arguably the best Irish wide receiver class in the last fifteen years, and likely the best any program has had in the last five years. Michael Floyd, Deion Walker, and John Goodman all have good size and speed at the position.

Floyd, in particular, seems to already give the Irish a player that can stretch the field.Grimes and West are lightning quick receivers that excel in the slot position. While both Grimes and West were inconsistent catching the ball, both have the ability to create yards after the catch. Parris and Kamara are taller, more rangy receivers that showed promise in 2007. However, Parris struggled, at times, to get open and Kamara still has room to grow into the position. If both of these receivers can continue to utilize their size to shield defenders, the sky is the limit.

Improved speed on the part of Parris could also increase his game as he often struggled to gain separation from defenders.Like Crist, Floyd is a receiver that has all of the physical tools to be great. He has good, albeit not great, speed, great size, excellent field vision, smooth route running ability, and catches everything thrown near him Goodman has great speed for his size. While his hands are suspect, a forty-plus yard kickoff return average shows his ability to get yards after the catch. Walker is exceptionally fluid cutting in his routes, needing only to gain strength before being able to consistently contribute at the collegiate level.The wide receiver position is extremely deep and talented and has great potential to be a break-out position for the Irish in 2008 if the Irish offense can protect the passer.