Rocco Spindler, an offensive lineman for Notre Dame, endured a long two seasons in South Bend before securing a starting position as right guard as a junior in 2023.
Before suffering a season-ending knee injury versus Clemson, the 6-foot-5, 325-pound player earned ten starts. In addition to his knee surgery, Spindler also had shoulder surgery. He began fall camp vying with classmate Pat Coogan for the left guard position, but over the final 2.5 weeks of camp, Sam Pendleton took control.
Although it wasn’t the best situation for the graduate student—Spindler had high standards for himself going into the year—he didn’t give up and continued working.
After right guard Billy Schrauth sustained an injury, Spindler is back in the starting lineup, and the Michigan native is hoping to make the most of it.
Spindler said, “We’re concentrating on Louisville right now, but it left a bad taste in my mouth.” “After two surgeries, I genuinely believed that I was the right person to consult.” However, events do occur. Although you may not always agree with the judgments made by coaches, I was fortunate to have a strong support system in my family.
Sometimes it draws you into a shadowy area, but you eventually come to Notre Dame, they’re going to challenge you not only in the classroom but on the field.”
It’s not easy to keep showing up without light at the end of the tunnel, but Spindler did and he looks to keep Notre Dame headed in the right direction this weekend as No. 15 Louisville comes to South Bend.
“Tough times don’t last, tough people do,” explained Spindler. “I think that’s kind of been my motto. Not only, my motto with this team’s motto. Losing the NIU, I feel like we have a chip on our shoulder going the rest of the season.”
The offensive line must advance if Notre Dame is to accomplish its objective. Having two young players on the left side and three games into the season, along with new starters at center and guard, puts Joe Rudolphh in a difficult situation.
The Irish aren’t making any excuses, but it takes time to develop chemistry, trust, and the capacity for five players to see things from the same perspective.
According to Spindler, “I think that taking ownership of our details in practice and strengthening our bond has taken the most steps.” Observing specific objects or blocks that aren’t necessary related to the game.
“Now, seeing it come full circle and being situationally aware. I think Coach Rudolph has definitely harped on (that) the most. He got us ready for Texas A&M. Now we want to be in a situationally aware when it’s third down and long.”
A week ago, Spindler made a key block to spring quarterback Riley Leonard for a score. In fact, Spindler has been sharp over the last two games despite not starting.
The Notre Dame defense played a part in that as Spindler thinks very highly of the guys he has to face on a daily basis.
“Our defense, I believe, is the best in the country,” stated Spindler. “Get to practice against them every single day. You got your main guys, Rylie (Mills) and Howard (Cross) and you get to practice against that. Just when you think you’re in the clear, you get Jason Onye, you get (Donovan) Hinish, you get Armel (Mukam), you get a great group of guys. Just when you get past the first level, you got this secondary, you got these linebackers. It’s never easy with them.
“They’re always giving you certain looks that you might not notice, so be ready to see them when you play games.”
Regarding the Louisville game, Spindler wasn’t thinking about getting even, but he still remembers the feeling of returning to the locker room after playing.
Spindler stated, “I necessarily don’t want to block it out.” Though it shouldn’t be your primary concern, you should always keep it in mind. The key is to remain present and seize this unique moment that we are in.
“That might be fuel for some guys.” It’s similar to how each person prepares on their own. However, we are undoubtedly focused on playing this game and winning it.
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