Tony Jones has long shown Notre Dame what he could be, but the rising senior running back has rarely turned that potential into routine production. For every standout performance in practice, particularly in the spring, there has been a four-week midseason stretch where he took 12 carries for 25 total yards. For every 51-yard Playoff-clinching touchdown reception, there has been a Cotton Bowl where he warranted all of one target.
Such is the track record that makes a “consistent” characterization stand out, one offered by Irish head coach Brian Kelly on Tuesday after Notre Dame returned to the practice field following spring break.