Author: John Vannie

Getting Even

Notre Dame returns home on Saturday to entertain the 2-2 Pittsburgh Panthers. Coach Dave Wannstedt’s team has struggled thus far due to player turnover from last year’s very successful team, and the Panthers are still tinkering with the starting lineup in an effort to find the right formula. The Irish are coming off a comfortable…

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Irish Smother Punchless BC

Notre Dame blitzed Boston College with 21 points in the first quarter and coasted to a 31-13 victory on Saturday night. The Irish defense stonewalled BC’s anemic rushing attack and forced its two inexperienced quarterbacks to the air. The results were predictable, and Notre Dame was able to add points whenever it appeared the hosts…

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Irish Search for a Win in Boston

Notre Dame returns to the road on Saturday evening to play the Boston College Eagles in a regionally televised contest. The 2-1 hosts rolled over two lower-tier opponents before being shut out at home by Virginia Tech last week. This defeat triggered a change at quarterback, where true freshman Chase Rettig will make his first…

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Irish Loss Has Familiar Feel

Stanford shut down Notre Dame’s one-dimensional attack and the Cardinal ground game eventually overcame a gritty performance by the Irish defense to record a 37-14 victory in South Bend. The outcome was in doubt for three quarters despite Notre Dame’s inability to capitalize on numerous opportunities, but the failure to gain one yard in two…

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Irish Await Stanford Challenge

The Fighting Irish return home to face the 19th ranked Stanford Cardinal on Saturday in a matchup of talented offensive units and defenses in search of respect. Coach Jim Harbaugh has transformed the Cardinal from a finesse, pass-oriented team to one that manhandles opponents and is not afraid to run pour it on. Consequently, the…

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