One of the most exciting aspects of a new season is the ascension of bit or role players from the previous year to stars in the lineup. For example, no one saw the rise of Te’Von Coney coming, not even his own coaches, and now he is an All-America candidate and a staple on the defense. In 2015, CJ Prosise was a converted receiver and third team running back, some injuries later he was a 1,000 yard rusher and a third round NFL draft pick.
Who can make a similar leap in 2018? Technically any player can, but here are five players who figure to see the field a lot and the Irish team needs to break through to be a playoff caliber program.