Absolutely true. It's just a point that he was fortunate enough to play behind another potential 1st rounder who made his life easier. That mammoth space-eating, blocker-occupying beast allowed McClain to roam free, untouched, sideline to sideline.
Poor defense. His surrounding cast wasn't much to work with. Football is a team game and one guy can't do it all, no matter how good he is. His numbers are impressive, improving each year and his coaching was top-notch. He's NFL-ready, good size too. Played for a big-time school against some good opponents.
Also, check the numbers. ND went 6-6 but each loss was by 7 points or less. They were always in it. He can't do it by himself.