By: Nick Kremer⏐Editor⏐Twitter: @NickKremerIT⏐Profile: @NickKremer
Credit - Twitter @antonioc_viii
Former Rhode Island cornerback/safety Antonio Carter has committed to Notre Dame, choosing the Irish over offers from LSU, Florida, Ole Miss, Wisconsin, and several other Power 5 programs. Carter, who projects to play safety for Notre Dame, is the second transfer pickup from the portal this offseason for the Irish secondary, joining former Oklahoma State nickel Thomas Harper.
Carter’s two seasons of eligibility are important for Notre Dame, as he brings experience to the safety position that the team was lacking. Carter put up impressive stats during his time at Rhode Island with 111 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 17 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. This level of experience and skill is huge for the Irish secondary's depth chart from a numbers and experience standpoint.
Carter has shown his versatility in the secondary in his time with Rhode Island. He played with physicality and made a significant contribution to the team's performance against perimeter screens. Additionally, he was utilized as a blitzer off the edge and matched up in coverage.
Carter’s coverage skills are particularly impressive. He made 11 breakups and a pick while playing cornerback, but also forced and recovered three fumbles. His production on the field as a cornerback and disruptive playmaking should translate well to safety, which is what Notre Dame needs. Carter’s physicality and experience in coverage will be vital, as he is a talented tackler who can go up against quality Power 5 competition.
Carter’s signing will also have a significant impact on Harper. Without Carter, Notre Dame would have likely forced Harper to cross-train as a deep safety in addition to his more traditional nickel position. With Carter on board, Notre Dame will be able to leave Harper in the slot, where he is most effective. The addition of Harper in the nickel position and Carter in the safety position will provide the Irish secondary with much-needed experience, make them better in man coverage, and improve their productivity.
With Carter in the fold, the Irish secondary will be able to rely less on freshmen Ben Minich and Adon Shuler. If they are ready, they may be able to force their way into the rotation, but with Carter in the mix, there is no need for them to play, unless injury demands it. By adding a player with Carter's experience and skills, Notre Dame's safety position has transformed from being a major concern to a key part of a much-improved defense.
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