Notre Dame Right Guard Sullivan Absher Leaning On 2025 Experience For Growth In 2026
Absher leverages crucial 2025 game reps to anchor Notre Dame's right guard position, forging a dominant partnership for the 2026 season.
North Carlina native Sullivan Absher has been, or has trained to be, the 'next man in' for the Notre Dame offensive line the last two seasons. Now, he's been given the opportunity to shore up the right side of the offensive line alongside right tackle Guerby Lambert . Last season, Absher stepped into the starting lineup to replace and injured Billy Schrauth .
The 6-7, 320-pound guard played well in the final five games of the regular season and has positioned himself for a starting position heading into 2026. "The experience from last season has given me more confidence," Absher explained. "I mean, it's impossible to replicate game reps in practice, no matter how hard you try, no matter how hard you crank the speakers up in practice.
Just having those game reps and being used to the speed of the game and the caliber of athletes that are out there, I think that'll pay dividends going into next season. " Absher started games against Boston College on the road, Navy at home in prime time, Pitt on the road in a Top 25 matchup, Syracuse at home and Stanford on the road. The experience he obtained last season has paid major dividends so far this offseason, but he's looking to take the next step at guard.
That journey starts right now during spring practice. "In the spring, I'd say definitely keeping my weight into the ground," Absher shared. "I'm working on keeping my feet planted, keeping me rooted and grounded, strong with that core strength and playing through the hands.