Brian Kelly gives Jack Coan high marks after second viewing

Brian Kelly got right back into the game today, analyzing Notre Dame’s thrilling victory over Florida State last night. Upon further review, he was even more impressed with quarterback Jack Coan.

In his press conference today, Kelly gave his quarterback high marks for his performance last night.

“I think what was impressive, obviously he pushed the ball down the field. I loved his demeanor on the sideline, great communicator,” said Kelly. “Got the kind of information you’re looking for from him. 

“It’s all the things that we had surmised with a guy that’s been in it before and the moment wasn’t too big for him obviously. You go on the road in that kind of environment, you worry about how you’re going to handle it and he did a terrific job.”

On the field, Coan completed 26 of his 35 pass attempts. All in all, the Notre Dame quarterback threw for 366 yards and four touchdowns. Quickly, he put to bed any questions of whether he was the right man for the job.

Jack Coan’s reaction

While Coan won the game and his coach’s praise, he set the Notre Dame record for passing yards in a season opener. Following Notre Dame’s Jonathan Doerer drilling the winning kick in overtime, Coan gave his instant reaction to the victory.

“Just an unbelievable kick,” Coan said following the game to ESPN’s Katie George. “Just an unbelievable night here. Winning on the road is always tough and it’s just so special to come out with a victory.”

The talented signal-caller was overjoyed with the fresh feeling of suiting up for the Fighting Irish.

“Yeah, it’s unbelievable,” he said. “It doesn’t even feel real to be wearing this jersey with this group of guys around me like this. I mean, it’s just a dream come true. You know, you dream of playing in places like this. This is just an iconic place and to get a win like this is just amazing.”

Highlight-reel throws

On his third touchdown pass of the night, Coan connected with wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. for a 37-yard touchdown to regain the lead against Florida State. 

It’s 2021 and Jack Coan is throwing absolute DIMES 🎯

pic.twitter.com/xDpLwtgnC9

— PFF College (@PFF_College) September 6, 2021

At the time, the play swung the momentum of the game.

As the safety came to provide help over the top, Coan dropped a pass into the hands of his receiver who did not break stride as he crossed the goal line. It was the fifth target and third completion between the two in their first game together.

Jack Coan’s new start at Notre Dame is off to a roaring start. Now, he’ll look to keep the momentum rolling as the season goes on.

On3’s Wade Peery contributed to this article.