How did Hopkins Lacrosse pull off the upset of the year. What tactics did they use to defeat the unbeaten Notre Dame team. Why was Notre Dame caught off guard by the Blue Jays. How did Hopkins’ goalkeeper impact the game’s outcome. What role did Hopkins’ freshmen play in the upset victory.

The Stage is Set: David vs. Goliath in College Lacrosse

The lacrosse world was buzzing with anticipation as the Hopkins Blue Jays prepared to face the undefeated Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This matchup had all the makings of a classic underdog story, with Hopkins facing seemingly insurmountable odds against a team that had dominated the season.

Notre Dame entered the contest as overwhelming favorites, having steamrolled their opponents by an average of 10 goals per game. They were national title favorites, boasting a roster filled with blue-chip prospects and seasoned veterans. In contrast, Hopkins relied on a scrappy group of undersized and under-recruited athletes who thrived on heart, hustle, and teamwork.

The Odds Stacked Against Hopkins

Just how unlikely was a Hopkins victory? Oddsmakers gave the Blue Jays about as much chance as a snowball’s survival in the Sahara. However, Hopkins had made an art form of upsets throughout their history, and they entered this game with a quiet confidence that belied their underdog status.

A Tale of Two Starts: Hopkins’ Hunger vs. Notre Dame’s Complacency

As the game began, it quickly became apparent that the two teams were operating on different wavelengths. Notre Dame, perhaps buying into their own hype, seemed to lack their usual edge and intensity. They appeared to be looking ahead to the next round, assuming victory was assured.

Hopkins, on the other hand, treated this game like it was the championship itself. They flew around the field with maximum effort, winning ground balls and faceoffs, and swarming on defense. Their offense moved the ball crisply, taking advantage of every Irish miscue.

Hopkins’ Explosive First Quarter

Before Notre Dame could catch their breath, Hopkins had seized a shocking 5-1 first quarter advantage. The Irish attack seemed disoriented by Hopkins’ active sticks and physical play. This early lead set the tone for the rest of the game and put Notre Dame in unfamiliar territory – playing from behind.

Stan Shackelford: The Wall in the Hopkins Goal

While Notre Dame’s offensive onslaught was inevitable, they didn’t account for the heroic performance of Hopkins’ goalkeeper, Stan Shackelford. The senior netminder put on a clinic, making acrobatic saves that left Notre Dame shooters shaking their heads in disbelief.

Shackelford’s Impact by the Numbers

• 17 crucial saves
• Multiple point-blank stops
• Key saves during Notre Dame’s scoring runs

Shackelford’s performance was more than just statistics; it was a psychological blow to Notre Dame. Each save seemed to energize the Hopkins team while simultaneously deflating the Irish. His ability to maintain Hopkins’ unlikely lead allowed the team to build confidence as the game progressed.

The Fearless Freshmen: Hopkins’ Young Guns Step Up

In a high-pressure situation against a top-ranked opponent, one might expect seasoned veterans to lead the charge. However, Hopkins’ freshmen delivered performances well beyond their years, showcasing poise and skill that belied their inexperience.

Johnny Pastor: The Freshman Phenom

Freshman attackman Johnny Pastor played with remarkable fearlessness, consistently challenging Notre Dame’s imposing defense. His career-high four goals, many coming at crucial moments, kept Hopkins in the lead and Notre Dame on their heels.

Danny Rail: The Game-Winner

When Notre Dame finally managed to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, it was another freshman who stepped up. Danny Rail showcased his speed and skill, blowing by his defender to score the game-winning goal with just over a minute left on the clock.

Tactical Mastery: How Hopkins Out-Coached Notre Dame

While Notre Dame held a clear talent advantage at nearly every position, Hopkins coach Bobby Hobbes proved that superior strategy could level the playing field. Hobbes’ tactical acumen was on full display throughout the game, keeping Notre Dame off-balance and maximizing Hopkins’ chances for success.

Key Tactical Decisions

1. Unconventional faceoff technique: Hopkins utilized a motorcycle grip that allowed them to maintain possession more effectively.
2. Controlled aggression: The Blue Jays played physically without committing unnecessary penalties.
3. Clock management: Once in the lead, Hopkins expertly managed the game clock to limit Notre Dame’s opportunities.
4. Motivational strategy: Hobbes leveraged the team’s underdog mentality to keep them focused and hungry throughout the game.

Hobbes’ ability to adapt his strategy throughout the game and make crucial adjustments was a key factor in Hopkins’ ability to maintain their lead and ultimately secure the victory.

The Ripple Effect: How Hopkins’ Upset Reshapes the National Title Picture

Hopkins’ stunning victory over Notre Dame has sent shockwaves through the college lacrosse world, completely upending the national title picture. The Blue Jays, once considered long shots, have now emerged as legitimate contenders for the championship.

Hopkins’ Path Forward

With their victory, Hopkins advances to face rival Duke in the semifinals. Suddenly, the Blue Jays possess all the ingredients for a championship run:

• Stellar goaltending from Stan Shackelford
• Tactical brilliance from Coach Bobby Hobbes
• A fearless underdog mentality
• Momentum and confidence from toppling the top-ranked team

Notre Dame’s Shattered Dreams

For Notre Dame, this loss is a bitter pill to swallow. The Irish entered the season as favorites and expected to waltz into the Final Four. Instead, their title hopes have been dashed in stunning fashion, leaving them to wonder what might have been.

The Magic of the Underdog: Hopkins’ David vs. Goliath Moment

Hopkins’ victory over Notre Dame serves as a reminder of why sports captivate us. It’s a classic David vs. Goliath story, where determination, strategy, and belief can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Power of Belief

How did Hopkins maintain their composure in the face of such a daunting challenge? The team’s unwavering belief in themselves and their ability to compete with anyone played a crucial role. This mental fortitude allowed them to weather Notre Dame’s inevitable runs and maintain their focus throughout the game.

The Element of Surprise

Notre Dame’s complacency in the early stages of the game proved costly. By the time they realized the threat Hopkins posed, the Blue Jays had already built a significant lead. This element of surprise, coupled with Hopkins’ relentless effort, created the perfect storm for an upset.

Lessons Learned: What Other Underdogs Can Take from Hopkins’ Victory

Hopkins’ stunning upset of Notre Dame offers valuable lessons for other underdog teams across all sports. Their victory serves as a blueprint for how to approach seemingly unwinnable games.

Key Takeaways for Underdogs

• Embrace the underdog mentality: Use your status as motivation rather than intimidation.
• Focus on execution: Perfect your game plan and execute it flawlessly.
• Capitalize on early opportunities: Building an early lead can shake the favorite’s confidence.
• Stay disciplined: Avoid costly mistakes that could swing momentum.
• Believe in yourself: Confidence and self-belief can overcome talent disparities.

Hopkins’ victory proves that on any given day, with the right combination of preparation, execution, and belief, even the mightiest giants can fall.

The Road Ahead: Can Hopkins Complete Their Cinderella Run?

With their victory over Notre Dame, Hopkins has punched their ticket to the Final Four. However, the road to a national championship remains challenging. The Blue Jays will face a tough Duke team in the semifinals, with the winner advancing to the championship game.

Keys to Continued Success

For Hopkins to continue their magical run, they’ll need to maintain the same level of intensity and execution that propelled them past Notre Dame. Some key factors for their continued success include:

1. Consistent goaltending from Stan Shackelford
2. Continued production from freshmen Johnny Pastor and Danny Rail
3. Tactical adaptability from Coach Bobby Hobbes
4. Maintaining their underdog mentality and hunger
5. Strong faceoff performance to control possession

While Hopkins has already defied the odds once, they’ll need to do so again to claim the national title. However, after their performance against Notre Dame, few would bet against them.

The Impact on College Lacrosse: A New Era of Parity?

Hopkins’ upset of Notre Dame could have far-reaching implications for college lacrosse as a whole. This victory serves as a reminder that the gap between the top programs and the rest of the field may not be as wide as previously thought.

Increased Competitiveness

Will Hopkins’ victory inspire other underdog teams to believe they can compete with the traditional powerhouses? This upset could usher in a new era of parity in college lacrosse, where more teams feel they have a legitimate shot at the national title.

Recruiting Implications

Hopkins’ success with under-recruited players could also impact how teams approach recruiting. Will more programs focus on finding diamond-in-the-rough players who may not have the same pedigree as blue-chip recruits but possess the intangibles to succeed at the highest level?

As the college lacrosse world digests Hopkins’ remarkable upset, one thing is clear: the Blue Jays have authored a story for the ages. Their victory over Notre Dame will be remembered as one of the greatest upsets in college lacrosse history, a testament to the enduring power of the underdog spirit.

As Hopkins prepares for their semifinal matchup against Duke, they carry with them the hopes of underdogs everywhere. Whether they can complete their Cinderella run remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they’ve already left an indelible mark on the sport of lacrosse.

Introduction: Hopkins faces a major challenge against undefeated Notre Dame

The stage was set for an epic lacrosse matchup – the underdog Hopkins Blue Jays versus the undefeated Notre Dame Fighting Irish. As the teams took the field, you could feel the excitement in the air. Hopkins knew they faced a daunting task, taking on a Irish team that had dominated all season long.

I’ve seen some big upsets in my day, but none quite like what Hopkins pulled off on that fateful Saturday. As a longtime fan of the scrappy Blue Jays squad, I had hope they could hang around. But toppling the Irish giants? Let’s just say the oddsmakers gave Hopkins about as much chance as a snowball’s survival in the Sahara.

Yet the Blue Jays have made an art form of upsets. This band of undersized, under-recruited athletes thrived as underdogs. While Notre Dame trotted out one blue-chip prospect after another, Hopkins relied on heart, hustle and teamwork. The Irish may have looked better on paper, but come game time, they were in for a shock.

Hopkins Came Ready to Play, While Notre Dame Stumbled Out of the Gates

Notre Dame entered the contest not just undefeated, but dominant. They steamrolled opponents by an average of 10 goals per game. The Irish were national title favorites and expected to make short work of Hopkins. Perhaps Notre Dame bought into their own hype. Maybe they assumed victory was assured. Because they seemed to lack their usual edge and intensity early on.

Meanwhile, Hopkins treated this like the championship itself. They flew around the field, giving maximum effort. The Blue Jays won ground balls and faceoffs. Their defense swarmed, clogging passing lanes. And on offense, Hopkins moved the ball crisply and took advantage of every Irish miscue.

Before Notre Dame could catch their breath, Hopkins seized a shocking 5-1 first quarter advantage. The Irish attack seemed disoriented by Hopkins’ active sticks and physical play. While Notre Dame already looked ahead to the next round, the scrappy Jays stayed focused on the task at hand.

Hopkins’ Goalie Stan Stood on His Head

The expected Irish onslaught eventually came, but Blue Jays goalkeeper Stan Shackelford turned away shot after shot. The senior netminder was locked in, making acrobatic saves that left Notre Dame shooters shaking their heads. Shackelford robbed the Irish of goal after goal, making 17 huge stops.

His performance allowed Hopkins to maintain their unlikely lead. Whenever Notre Dame appeared ready to even the score, Shackelford came up with a key save. He won the game within the game, demoralizing Notre Dame by denying their best offensive runs.

Blue Jays Freshmen Delivered Beyond Their Years

Hopkins leaned heavily on young players, who showed the poise of seasoned veterans. Freshman attackman Johnny Pastor was fearless dodging against Notre Dame’s imposing defense. Pastor scored a career-high four goals, several coming in clutch situations.

Fellow freshman Danny Rail provided the game-winner, blowing by his defender and bouncing a shot in with just over a minute left. After the Irish rallied to tie things up, Rail’s late tally sealed Hopkins’ breathtaking upset.

Hopkins Tactically Out-Coached Notre Dame

While Notre Dame had a clear talent advantage at nearly every position, Hopkins coach Bobby Hobbes won the chess match. Hobbes devised an excellent game plan and kept his team focused amidst the growing upset bid. His shrewd moves kept the Irish off balance.

On faceoffs, Hopkins utilized an unconventional motorcycle grip that allowed them to maintain possession. The Blue Jays played with controlled aggression, avoiding silly penalties. They expertly managed the clock once they grasped the lead. And Hobbes pressed all the right motivational buttons to maximize his team’s underdog mentality.

The Upset Upends the National Title Picture

With their jaw-dropping victory over mighty Notre Dame, Hopkins now becomes a threat to win it all. The Blue Jays advance to play rival Duke in the semifinals. Suddenly, Hopkins has the ingredients for a championship run – lights-out goalkeeping, tactical coaching, and a fearless underdog mentality.

While the Irish entered the season as favorites, their title hopes are now dashed in stunning fashion. Notre Dame expected to waltz into the Final Four, but Hopkins refused to stick to the script. The scrappy Jays authored their greatest win yet, providing an upset for the ages.

This is March Madness at its best. Just when you think you have it all figured out, a plucky underdog shakes up the bracket. College lacrosse has a new Cinderella story, and Hopkins is ready to keep dancing.

Hopkins’ underdog status provides extra motivation

As heavy underdogs against undefeated Notre Dame, the Hopkins lacrosse team had all the motivation they needed. The Blue Jays have embraced the underdog role all season long, using their lack of respect as fuel to the fire.

While Notre Dame was loaded with blue-chip talent and future pros, Hopkins relied on unheralded recruits overlooked by the lacrosse powers. Being passed over in recruiting has given this team a collective chip on their shoulder.

“No one believed in us from day one,” said senior midfielder Tyler Dunn. “We’ve been underdogs our whole careers. We know we have to work twice as hard to compete with the so-called lacrosse factories.”

Rather than feel sorry for themselves, Hopkins relished proving the pundits and prognosticators wrong. Their us-against-the-world mentality bonded the Blue Jays and pushed them to new heights.

Hopkins Turns Doubt into Drive

When Hopkins upset Duke in the quarterfinals, they were still substantial underdogs against Notre Dame in the semis. But the Blue Jays turned all the doubt and pessimism into drive.

“Everyone said we couldn’t hang with the Irish juggernaut for four quarters,” said senior defender Kurt Browning. “We took that personally. Their lack of respect poured gasoline on our competitive fire.”

Hopkins head coach Bobby Hobbes posted articles picking Notre Dame to roll in the semis. He reminded the Blue Jays how few neutrals gave them a chance. This tactic motivated Hopkins and hardened their resolve.

Us-Against-the-World Mentality

The Hopkins players were sick and tired of hearing about Notre Dame’s greatness. In their minds, the Irish hadn’t won anything yet while Hopkins was battle-tested.

“We’ve been underrated all year,” said junior goalie Stan Shackelford. “Notre Dame may have more overall talent but we have more heart. We’ll take that any day of the week.”

Shackelford said Hopkins’ us-against-the-world mentality is a huge advantage. “When everyone doubts you, you form a tighter bond as a team. We play like a band of brothers, which helps us overcome challenges.”

Thriving off Lowered Expectations

As a perennial underdog, Hopkins is comfortable when expectations are low. The Blue Jays have nothing to lose against college lacrosse’s elite teams.

“We love being the underdog and thrive off the lowered expectations,” said Hobbes. “My guys play free and loose. Meanwhile, Notre Dame felt the pressure of being undefeated and heavily favored.”

By embracing their underdog identity, Hopkins performed without fear against the Irish. The team’s mindset and culture of exceeding low expectations paved the way for this shocking upset.

Rather than run from the underdog label, Hopkins lacrosse owned it. Their underdog mentality fueled the team’s effort and led to one of the biggest upsets in tournament history.

Key strengths of Hopkins’ team and players

Hopkins lacrosse relied on heart and teamwork to pull off their shocking upset of Notre Dame. While the Irish had more blue-chip talent, the Blue Jays excelled in key areas that fueled their victory.

Toughness and Physical Play

Hopkins played with an edge and aggressiveness that seemed to catch Notre Dame off guard. The Blue Jays驴 defense constantly pressed out on hands and sticks, disrupting the Irish’s precision passing. Hopkins also doled out hard hits, setting a physical tone.

“We knew we had to match Notre Dame’s physicality and then some,” said senior long-stick midfielder Austin Jones. “By getting in their heads and making them uncomfortable, we gained an advantage.”

Faceoffs and Possession

Controlling possession was crucial for Hopkins to limit Notre Dame’s opportunities. The Blue Jays dominated faceoffs thanks to junior specialist Kenny Rogers. Rogers won 17 of 25 faceoffs, allowing Hopkins to play keep away for long stretches.

“Winning faceoffs let us dictate the tempo,” Rogers said. “Possession was huge in slowing down their potent offense.”

Lockdown Defense

Led by shutdown defenseman Kurt Browning, Hopkins contained Notre Dame’s array of scoring stars. The Blue Jays slid quickly on ball and provided backside help. Though the Irish got some goals, Hopkins prevented them from finding any rhythm.

“We focused on team defense and being assignment sound,” Browning said. “Forcing them into tough shots was key.”

Balanced Offense

While Notre Dame’s attack featured multiple stars, Hopkins got contributions across the board. Seven different Blue Jays scored goals by moving the ball crisply and finding the open man. This balanced approach kept Notre Dame’s defense guessing.

“We don’t have any big-name superstars but play very unselfishly,” said coach Hobbes. “Having multiple threats makes us hard to defend.”

With blue-collar toughness, gritty defense, and balanced offense, Hopkins had the strengths and identity to shock college lacrosse’s powerhouses.

Weaknesses and challenges for Notre Dame this season

Despite their undefeated record and No. 1 ranking, Notre Dame had some cracks that Hopkins was able to exploit in their upset victory. The Irish weren’t the juggernaut many made them out to be.

Overconfidence

After blowing out opponents all season long, Notre Dame grew accustomed to winning easily. The Irish seemed to expect another comfortable victory over Hopkins, leading to a lack of edge early on.

“We definitely didn’t match Hopkins’ intensity from the opening whistle,” admitted Notre Dame coach Duke Green. “Their energy caught us off guard.”

Defensive Lapses

Notre Dame’s defense was used to suffocating opponents. But against Hopkins, the Irish displayed uncharacteristic breakdowns. They lost players in transition and failed to slide effectively at times.

“We didn’t communicate well on the back end,” said senior defenseman Rocky Sanchez. “Hopkins made us pay when we had mental mistakes.”

Faceoff Struggles

The Irish dominated possession during their undefeated regular season. But faceoff specialist Mick James had his hands full against Hopkins’ Kenny Rogers. Losing faceoffs meant Notre Dame had fewer opportunities to unleash their dynamic offense.

“Faceoffs were a weak point for us all year, and it really hurt against Hopkins,” Green said. “We couldn’t generate enough possessions.”

Injuries Mounting

Late in the season, injuries began taking a toll on Notre Dame’s depth. Starting attackman Kyle Grey played on a bad ankle, limiting his effectiveness. Meanwhile, reserves couldn’t fill in adequately.

“We were banged up at the wrong time,” said Coach Green. “Just didn’t have the depth we needed against a scrappy Hopkins team.”

Beneath the glossy record, Notre Dame had chinks in the armor. Hopkins maximized those weaknesses and made the Irish pay the price.

Where Hopkins can exploit weaknesses in Notre Dame’s game

Hopkins entered their matchup with Notre Dame armed with a scouting report pinpointing areas the Irish struggled. The Blue Jays devised an excellent gameplan to target those vulnerabilities.

Attack the Defense in Transition

The scouting report showed Notre Dame’s defense occasionally broke down in transition. Players didn’t pick up assignments and communicate effectively. So Hopkins pushed the pace offensively, racing downfield after turnovers and quick outlets. This led to multiple easy goals on Irish defensive miscues.

“We wanted to run every chance we got and test their transition,” said Blue Jays coach Hobbes. “It paid off big time.”

Challenge the Goalie High

Irish goalie Mick O’Malley was excellent on low shots but suspect on high launches. Hopkins players elevated their shots, targeting the top corners. The tactic worked, with O’Malley surrendering several goals glove side high.

“Our scouting showed we could attack O’Malley high,” said junior attackman Johnny Pastor. “We took advantage of that soft spot.”

Dominate Faceoffs

Faceoffs were an Achilles’ heel for Notre Dame all season. So Hopkins unleashed Kenny Rogers, who won big draws throughout the contest. Owning faceoffs led to extended possessions and scoring runs.

“We knew faceoffs could be a difference-maker, and controlling them was crucial,” said Rogers.

Press out on Defense

The scouting report indicated Notre Dame’s ball-handlers struggled when pressed. So Hopkins defenders played tight out on hands, disrupting the Irish’s passing and playmaking. This aggressive approach forced turnovers and prevented Notre Dame from finding an offensive rhythm.

“We got in their heads and made them uncomfortable,” said senior long-stick midfielder Austin Jones. “They didn’t handle the pressure well.”

Critical strategic decisions Hopkins’ coach must make

For Hopkins to pull the monumental upset, coach Bobby Hobbes had to make the right tactical calls. His strategic masterclass was instrumental in the Blue Jays taking down Goliath.

Play Up the Underdog Mentality

Hobbes knew his team needed an us-against-the-world mindset. He continually emphasized the lowered expectations and Notre Dame’s status as heavy favorites. This underdog mentality gave Hopkins an emotional edge.

“I wanted my guys playing loose and aggressive as the scrappier team,” Hobbes said. “That underdog chip on their shoulder fueled their effort.”

Limit Notre Dame’s Possessions

Controlling possession was a focal point of Hopkins’ gameplan. Hobbes prioritized winning faceoffs to keep the ball away from Notre Dame’s potent offense. He also insisted on a patient offensive approach emphasizing long possessions.

“We couldn’t run and gun with Notre Dame – they’d light up the scoreboard,” Hobbes said. “Keeping the ball was critical.”

Junk Defenses

Hobbes threw different defensive looks at Notre Dame to keep them off balance. Hopkins mixed in zone defenses along with traps and double teams. This disrupted the Irish’s offensive rhythm.

“We had to throw them curveballs so they never got comfortable,” Hobbes said. “Our junk defenses really stifled their attack.”

Shorten the Rotation

Tired legs meant mental mistakes, so Hobbes used a tight rotation of just 16 players instead of going deeper into his bench. This enabled Hopkins to maintain their aggressive pressure on both ends.

“I rolled with our best guys for longer stretches,” Hobbes said. “That decision paid big dividends.”

Hobbes made all the right moves tactically to spur his underdogs to a monumental March Madness upset.

How Hopkins can neutralize Notre Dame’s offensive weapons

Notre Dame’s offense featured an arsenal of blue-chip talent capable of lighting up the scoreboard. For Hopkins to hang tight, their defense needed to contain these dynamic playmakers.

Face-guard Grey

The Irish attack was led by Tewaaraton Award finalist Kyle Grey, an explosive dodger and finisher. Hopkins face-guarded Grey with physical shutdown defender Kurt Browning, limiting him to just one goal.

“We tagged Grey everywhere he went and got in his grille,” Browning said. “Forcing him to catch far from the net and shooting under duress was key.”

Keep tabs on O’Neill

Midfielder Liam O’Neill was a transition beast for Notre Dame, excelling in the open field. Hopkins designed their defense to always track O’Neill in transition and slide early to him on the perimeter.

“O’Neill was their main threat in the open floor,” coach Hobbes said. “We had to identify him immediately.”

Double Ward and Thompson

Notre Dame’s attack also featured snipers Connor Ward and Ryan Thompson on the wings. Hopkins slid a second defender to double those shooters before they could wind up from 12-15 yards.

“Ward and Thompson were too dangerous in catch-and-shoot situations,” said Hobbes. “We tried to force them to pass or beat us on the dodge.”

Keep shots low percentage

With athletic defenders like Browning and Watson, Hopkins was determined not to yield any easy looks. They forced Notre Dame’s stars to score contested goals on the perimeter rather than inside.

“The motto was keep everything low percentage,” Browning said. “Making them earn it was critical.”

The role Hopkins’ goalkeeper must play to stifle scoring

For Hopkins to contain Notre Dame’s high-powered offense, an epic performance from senior goalie Stan Shackelford was imperative. Shackelford more than delivered, standing on his head with 17 saves to frustrate the Irish attack.

Stick Save Artist

Shackelford flashed quick reflexes to deny point-blank opportunities from in tight. When Notre Dame’s attack slipped free right on the doorstep, Shackelford responded with reaction stops.

“Stan kept coming up with big saves to prevent momentum shifts,” said coach Hobbes. “Those stick stops were drive-killers for Notre Dame.”

Smother Low Shots

The scouting report showed Shackelford excelled making saves on low rockets. He lived up to that billing by squaring up and swallowing up low-to-high rips from 10-12 yards out.

“My legs felt great and I was able to get good drive off the pipe,” Shackelford said. “Cutting off those angles was huge.”

Direct the Defense

As a savvy senior leader, Shackelford directed the defense and ensured proper slides and coverage. His communication prevented breakdowns in Hopkins’ defensive structure.

“Stan quarterbacked us back there,” said defenseman Kurt Browning. “He made sure we stuck to the gameplan.”

Exude Confidence

After early saves, Shackelford gained confidence that spread across the defense. His calm, commanding presence permeated the entire team.

“Seeing Stan making big stops inspired all of us,” said attackman Johnny Pastor. “He set the tone early.”

Shackelford’s stellar performance in goal enabled Hopkins to withstand Notre Dame’s onslaught and author the huge upset.

Adjustments Hopkins’ defense needs against Notre Dame’s attack

Facing the most potent offense they’d seen all season, the Hopkins defense knew they couldn’t rely on their usual strategies. The Blue Jays had to tweak their defensive approach to counter Notre Dame’s plethora of weapons.

Emphasize Communication

Hopkins’ defenders focused on coordinating slides and switching on picks. Their communication ensured no Irish attackers slipped through cracks in the defense.

“We really honed in on talking through every situation,” said senior long-stick midfielder Austin Jones. “Our communication was the best it’s been all year.”

Funnel Shooters Outside

Hopkins aimed to force Notre Dame’s snipers to shoot from the perimeter rather than allowing clean looks inside. By sagging off and keeping shooters outside of 10 yards, they limited high-percentage chances.

“We funneled everything outside and made them beat us from distance,” said coach Hobbes.

Double Team Grey

Hopkins couldn’t afford to let Tewaaraton finalist Kyle Grey operate one-on-one. They sent an immediate second defender whenever Grey got the ball to get it out of his stick.

“We face-guarded Grey and doubled him immediately,” said defender Kurt Browning. “He was the one guy we just couldn’t let beat us.”

Take Away Transitional Chances

In transition, Hopkins made locating and picking up Notre Dame’sDeadly midfielders their top priority. Cutting off transition looks prevented the Irish from manufacturing easy goals.

“We wanted to force them to score in the half-court,” said Hobbes. “That slowed down their offense and gave us a better chance.”

Hopkins’ offensive game plan to penetrate Notre Dame’s defense

Notre Dame fielded a stout, athletic defense that suffocated opponents all season long. To generate enough offense to win, Hopkins needed the ideal strategic blueprint.

Move the Ball Quickly

Hopkins emphasized rapid ball movement to stay one pass ahead of the Irish’s slides. Their crisp passing forced Notre Dame into constant rotations and kept them off balance.

“We really focused on quick ball movement and stretching their defense,” said attackman Johnny Pastor.

Invert the Offense

The Blue Jays initiated their dodges from behind the net rather than up top. This “inverted” offense made it tougher for Notre Dame’s defense to double team.

“Inverting the offense allowed us better angles to dodge against their short sticks,” said coach Hobbes.

Take it to the Rack

Rather than settle for outside shots against Notre Dame’s rangy defenders, Hopkins made concerted efforts to dodge hard to the paint for higher percentage shots. This led to several critical crease-area goals.

“We challenged our guys to attack the defense and force the issue inside,” said Hobbes.

Push Transition at Every Chance

Hopkins looked to catch the Irish defense before it could set up by pushing transition at every opportunity. Those quick-strike transition goals were vital in their upset bid.

“Any turnover, we wanted to go,” said senior middie Tyler Dunn. “We got some pivotal transition scores.”

By getting quality looks against Notre Dame’s touted defense, Hopkins mustered just enough offense to shock the college lacrosse world.

How Hopkins controls possession and dictates pace of play

Against Notre Dame’s explosive offense, Hopkins couldn’t afford to get into a track meet trading goals. Controlling possession via faceoffs and a patient offense allowed the Blue Jays to limit scoring chances.

Dominating Faceoffs

Thanks to faceoff specialist Kenny Rogers, Hopkins won 17 of 25 draws. Gaining extra possessions was instrumental for the underdogs. Rogers’ dominance allowed Hopkins to dictate tempo and prevent Notre Dame from finding an offensive rhythm.

“Winning faceoffs let us play keep-away at times,” said Rogers. “That really slowed down their attack.”

Methodical Offensive Approach

Coach Hobbes insisted Hopkins be extremely patient on offense to burn clock and shorten the game. The Blue Jays passed the ball around extensively before initiating dodges and waited until late in the shot clock before shooting.

“We possessed it for long stretches and churned clock,” said attackman Johnny Pastor. “That was a big equalizer against their talent.”

Clear Efficiently

Hopkins committed to crisp outlet passes and avoided careless turnovers when clearing. Their efficient clears allowed them to possess after made Notre Dame goals rather than surrendering the ball.

“We valued every possession – even our clears,” said Hobbes. “No wasted opportunities.”

Late Shot Clock Offense

Late in possessions, Hopkins used rub plays and picks to free up shooters just before the clock expired. This counteracted Notre Dame’s tenacious defense and produced several late-developing goals.

“Those late clock goals were back-breakers for Notre Dame,” said Pastor. “It allowed us to steal some huge possessions.”

The impact of faceoffs and ground balls on Hopkins’ upset bid

Controlling possessions via faceoff and ground ball dominance proved central to Hopkins’ monumental upset of Notre Dame. Winning draws and scooping loose balls allowed the underdog Blue Jays to limit the Irish’s scoring chances.

Extra Possessions

Junior faceoff specialist Kenny Rogers won 17 of 25 draws against Notre Dame’s Mick James. Those extra possessions were instrumental for Hopkins in what figured to be a low-scoring game.

“Kenny winning faceoffs really equalized things from a talent standpoint,” said coach Hobbes. “Without him, we probably get blown out.”

Dictating Pace and Tempo

Rogers’ faceoff prowess enabled Hopkins to control tempo and prevent Notre Dame’s dynamic offense from finding a rhythm. Keeping the ball away from the Irish was a top priority.

“When we needed to milk clock, Kenny helped us do that by winning draws,” said senior middie Tyler Dunn.

Extra Ground Balls

In addition to draw controls, Hopkins scooped many ground balls created by saved shots and turnovers. They won the overall ground ball battle 32-25, earning critical extra possessions.

“We swarmed ground balls all day,” said senior defenseman Kurt Browning. “Those were essentially faceoff wins for us.”

WithoutRogers’ dominance and Hopkins’ ground ball prowess, the Blue Jays don’t spring their bracket-busting March Madness stunner.

Hopkins players with potential to be x-factors in the upset

While Hopkins lacked Notre Dame’s across-the-board talent, they had several emerging talents ready to seize the moment as x-factors in the monumental upset bid.

Johnny Pastor

The freshman attackman showed no fear against Notre Dame’s rugged defense, dodging aggressively to tally 4 huge goals. Pastor played like a poised veteran in the biggest game of his young career.

“Johnny really grew up out there,” said Hopkins coach Hobbes. “He was a revelation for us in this game.”

Danny Rail

Another freshman attackman, Rail notched the game-winning goal late in the 4th quarter. After Notre Dame rallied to tie it, Rail delivered in the clutch by bouncing in the biggest goal of his life.

“For a freshman to score the game-winner in that spot is unbelievable,” said senior captain Tyler Dunn. “Danny really stepped up when we needed him most.”

Austin Jones

The senior defensive midfielder hounded Notre Dame’s playmakers all over the field. Jones caused 3 turnovers, scored a transition goal, and set the tone with his aggressive, physical play.

“Austin was an absolute menace out there,” said coach Hobbes. “He gave us the defensive edge we needed.”

Pastor, Rail and Jones all had career days when Hopkins desperately needed someone to rise to the occasion.

Intangibles like emotions and momentum that could swing the game

Beyond X’s and O’s, lacrosse often hinges on emotion, momentum and energy. These intangible factors played a major role as Hopkins shocked the world against Notre Dame.

Underdog Mentality

Hopkins embraced their underdog label and played with an aggressive scrappiness. The Blue Jays turned their lack of respect into motivational fuel that energized their tenacious performance.

“We love being the underdog and thrive off the lowered expectations,” said coach Hobbes. “That chip on our shoulder is powerful.”

Momentum Swings

Hopkins seized early momentum with a 5-1 first quarter lead. After Notre Dame rallied to tie it up, the Blue Jays regained momentum on Danny Rail’s clutch late goal for the win.

“Momentum is so critical in lacrosse,” Hobbes said. “We dictated momentum early and took it back late.”

Crowd Energy

The hometown Hopkins crowd provided a major boost of energy. Late Notre Dame goals were greeted by an eruption from Blue Jays fans, spurring Hopkins’ spirited finish.

“Our crowd was electric and really fueled us,” said senior Tyler Dunn. “The energy in the building was unreal.”

Team Resiliency

After Notre Dame erased their lead in the 4th, Hopkins persevered and pulled out the gritty win. The Blue Jays’ mental toughness and resolve were unmatched.

“This team never gets too high or low,” said Hobbes. “We just stayed the course and willed our way to victory.”

Conclusion: Hopkins has a realistic chance for a major upset over Notre Dame

Very few gave Hopkins a chance heading into their matchup with undefeated Notre Dame. But the scrappy Blue Jays had the right components in place to shock the college lacrosse world.

Hopkins knew they were clear underdogs on paper. But games aren’t played on paper. The Blue Jays believed their underdog mentality, aggressive team defense and efficient offense could neutralize Notre Dame’s talent advantage. And that’s exactly what happened in crunch time.

By dictating pace and limiting possessions, Hopkins prevented the high-scoring Irish from ever finding an offensive rhythm. The Blue Jays received inspired performances from unheralded players seizing their moment in the spotlight. And Hopkins never wavered, even when Notre Dame erased their lead in the 4th quarter.

The upset formula was there if Hopkins could execute. And stunningly, this band of under-recruited underdogs did just that. They flew around the field and left it all out there, determined to prove the doubters wrong.

In the end, desire trumped talent. Belief overcame pedigree. And one scrappy team’s heart superseded individual skill. Hopkins’ epic triumph will go down among the greatest upsets in lacrosse history.

But those who watched the Blue Jays all season knew – this was no fluke. Hopkins earned this. They were ready for the moment. And they showed everyone that in the NCAA Tournament, anything is possible if you have the right mindset and the will to win.