Notre Dame's National Championship Teams

Since Lou Holtz's 1988 National Championship football team -- Notre Dame's Women's athletic teams have won FOUR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS.  The Men's teams have zero.

Now, to be fair the Notre Dame Fencing Team (Men & Women) has won four "combined" National Championships in that time frame.

The above photo is of the eight foot tall "Grace Hall #1 sign" that is lit up every time a Notre Dame team is ranked #1 in the country.  This tradition started in 1973 when Grace Hall put up this sign after the football team beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl to win the 1973 National Championship.  That sign was lit again last Sunday night when Notre Dame's Fencing Team won the 2011 National Championship!

Here's a list of every Notre Dame National Championship team by year and by sport -- UPDATED on 4/4/11:

• 2011 National Champions:  Fencing (combined)
• 2010 National Champions:  Women's Soccer
• 2005 National Champions:  Fencing (combined)
• 2004 National Champions:  Women's Soccer
• 2003 National Champions:  Fencing (combined)
• 2001 National Champions:  Women's Basketball
• 1995 National Champions:  Women's Soccer
• 1994 National Champions:  Fencing (combined)
• 1988 National Champions:  Football
• 1987 National Champions:  Women's Fencing
• 1986 National Champions:  Men's Fencing
• 1978 National Champions:  Men's Fencing
• 1977 National Champions:  Football & Men's Fencing
• 1973 National Champions:  Football

NOTRE DAME ACCEPTS FIRST FEMALE STUDENTS: FALL OF 1973

• 1966 National Champions:  Football
• 1959 National Champions:  Tennis
• 1957 National Champions:  Cross Country
• 1949 National Champions:  Football
• 1947 National Champions:  Football
• 1946 National Champions:  Football
• 1944 National Champions:  Tennis &  Golf
• 1943 National Champions:  Football
• 1930 National Champions:  Football
• 1929 National Champions:  Football
• 1924 National Champions:  Football

NCAA All Tournament Team: Six from ND!

The 2010 Women's Soccer National Champions -- the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame -- was well represented on the All Tournament Team, with six team members among the eleven given this honor!  Notre Dame's Melissa Henderson (photo on right) was named Most Outstanding Offensive Player and Notre Dame's Jessica Schuveiller (photo on left) was named the Most Outstanding Defensive Player.  CONGRATULATIONS!!! Here's the All Tournament Team:

• GK: Emily Oliver, Stanford
• GK: Katie Baumgardner, Ohio State
• D: Hannah Cerrone, Boston College
• D: Jessica Schuveiller, Notre Dame
• M: Courtney Barg, Notre Dame
• M: Mandy Laddish, Notre Dame
• F: Rose Augustin, Notre Dame
• F: Camille Levin, Stanford
• F: Christen Press, Stanford
• F: Adrianna Leon,  Notre Dame
• F: Melissa Henderson, Notre Dame
• Most Outstanding Offensive Player: Melissa Henderson, Notre Dame
• Most Outstanding Defensive Player: Jessica Schuveiller, Notre Dame

LINK:  2010 NCAA WOMEN'S SOCCER NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Fastest Sellout in Sun Bowl's 77 Year History!!!

Well, it took approximately 21 hours for the 2010 Hyundai Sun Bowl to be declared a SELLOUT!  To put this in perspective, last year's Sun Bowl game between Oklahoma and Stanford was the fastest sellout in Sun Bowl history and it took 16 days for them to sell out the 50,000 seat stadium.   

When was the last time we heard "Oklahoma and IRRELEVANT" in the same sentence on ESPN?

Now we know why the Hyundai Sun Bowl's CEO was in "tears" when he spoke with great joy about having Notre Dame play in their bowl game...

It just goes to show you that there's College Football and then there is NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL.

LINK:  SUN BOWL ASSOCIATION PRESS RELEASE

Brian Kelly Talks Sun Bowl Preparation...

University of Notre Dame Head Football Coach, Brian Kelly -- met with the media today to discuss Notre Dame's decision to play in the Hyundai Sun Bowl.  Coach Kelly also answered questions about the Miami Hurricanes, recruiting, the status of Michael Floyd and Kyle Rudolph for next season, etc.  Plenty of ground covered in the session.  There's a second link to a press conference that Notre Dame seniors Ian Williams and Robert Hughes, had with the media yesterday, to talk about Notre Dame's accepting an invitation to play in the Sun Bowl.  Here's the links:

LINK:  COACH KELLY TALKS SUN BOWL

LINK:  IAN WILLIAMS & ROBERT HUGHES TALK SUN BOWL

Hyundai Sun Bowl -- Sunday Teleconference

The 2010 Hyundai Sun Bowl pulled together a quick "media teleconference" yesterday afternoon -- to talk about their announcement that they have Notre Dame and Miami coming to El Paso, TX to play in their bowl game.  Here's a link:

LINK:  HYUNDAI SUN BOWL -- TELECONFERENCE

Rocket Ismail Talks "Brawl Miami"

I just had to bring this Rocket Ismail interview back again to the blog -- in light of Notre Dame's decision to accept an invitation yesterday to take on the Miami Hurricanes in the 2010 Hyundai Sun Bowl.  Rocket's "story-telling" of the pre-game fight in the 1988 game against Miami is legendary.  A little "kick-start" to a bowl game that's still 25 days away... Enjoy!

LINK:  ROCKET TELLIN' A STORY...

WOMEN'S SOCCER -- NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!

The University of Notre Dame "welcomed home" its NATIONAL CHAMPIONS last night with a celebration in Purcell Pavillion for the Irish Women's Soccer Team!  Here's a link to the video along with another look back at Notre Dame's 1-0 win over Stanford for the National Championship, including the on field celebration, press conference, an interview with Coach Waldum and an interview with the game winning goal scorer, Adriana Leon.  What a wonderful day for NOTRE DAME!:

LINK:  THE NATIONAL CHAMPS COME HOME! 

LINK:  IRISH WIN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP! 

LINK:  ON FIELD CELEBRATION 

LINK:  POST GAME PRESS CONFERENCE

LINK:  INTERVIEW WITH COACH WALDRUM

LINK:  INTERVIEW WITH ADRIANA LEON

LINK:  COLLEGE CUP RECAP

THE AMAZING RACE: Another Win for Irish!

Notre Dame Alum, Thomas Wolfard '02 and his girlfriend Jill Haney won again last night -- reaching the finish line in South Korea before the other three teams!  This means they're among the final three teams left competing for the $1 million first prize -- in season 18 of CBS's globe-trotting adventure race.  Here's a link to an interview with Thomas and Jill -- after their win last night along with a replay of the entire episode:

LINK:  THOMAS AND JILL INTERVIEW 

LINK:  REPLAY -- CBS'S THE AMAZING RACE

THE HYUNDAI SUN BOWL IT IS FOR IRISH!!!

The University of Notre Dame accepted an invitation to the Hyundai Sun Bowl to take on the Miami Hurricanes @ Noon EST on New Year's Eve!  The game is played in El Paso, TX and will renew one of the most "INTENSE" rivalries in college history.  Hyundai Sun Bowl Chairman had this to say about their bowl game:  "We never in our wildest dreams in 77 years of bowl business thought we'd have a matchup like that.  This is the greatest thing that's ever happened to our community."

Yeah, Notre Dame is irrelevant...  Here's a few stories about the announcement -- along with video of a "teary eyed" Sun Bowl Official talking about "getting Notre Dame."

LINK:  KTSM-TV STORY

LINK:  SUN SENTINEL STORY

LINK:  MIAMI HERALD STORY 

LINK:  EL PASO TIMES STORY

LINK:  KVIA-TV STORY

LINK:  SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE STORY

LINK:  WNDU-TV STORY

LINK:  HYUNDAI SUN BOWL -- OFFICIAL WEBSITE

NOTRE DAME -- NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!!!!!

The University of Notre Dame Women's Soccer Team beat Stanford this afternoon to win the 2010 NCAA Women's Soccer National Championship!!! The Irish only needed one goal, from freshman Adriana Leon, eleven minutes in the second half -- in their 1-0 win over the #1 ranked and undefeated Stanford Cardinal. Two Fun Facts from the NCAA Women's Soccer Championships:  Notre's last four goals in the tournament were scored by FRESHMAN!  And, Notre Dame is now undefeated -- the last three years -- every time junior, Melissa Henderson gets an assist!  Melissa assisted Leon's winning goal.  Here's a link to all of the coverage following today's THIRD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FOR NOTRE DAME'S WOMEN'S SOCCER PROGRAM!!!!

YOU CAN WELCOME HOME THE NATIONAL CHAMPS 

AT 8:30 PM THIS EVENING @ PURCELL PAVILLION!!!

LINK:  ESPN GAME STORY

LINK:  NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

LINK:  SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE -- GAME STORY

Irish Play for NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP @ NOON!!!

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame's Women's Soccer Team is playing in the National Championship game today at NOON EST against the top ranked, and undefeated, Stanford Cardinal.  It's the fourth time in the last seven years, and the eighth time overall. that the Irish will be playing in the National Championship final -- having won this game in 1995 and 2004.  This game will also mark the 300th game in Randy Waldrum's coaching career at Notre Dame.  The game will be televised on ESPN2 and ESPN3.com   Here's a link to the 2010 College Cup Tournament Central website where you'll see a video of Saturday's press conference and a link to today's South Bend Tribune story.   GO IRISH!!!!

LINK:  GAME DAY CENTRAL -- NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Are the Irish Heading to El Paso?

With both West Virginia and UCONN winning today -- and Washington beating Washington State -- all signs point to Notre Dame heading to El Paso, TX to play in the Hyundai Sun Bowl on New Year's Eve!  And, don't be surprised if the Irish will be taking on the Miami Hurricanes -- in an "early renewal" of the "CATHOLICS vs. CONVICTS" series.  Notre Dame has called a press conference for Sunday to officially announce where the Irish will be "bowling!"  Here's a link to the Hyundai's Sun Bowl official website:

LINK:  HYUNDAI SUN BOWL -- OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Irish Hockey Beats 5th Ranked Miami!

Jeff Jackson's 12th ranked Fighting Irish over came a two goal deficit last night -- scoring three times in the last period -- beating the Miami Red Hawks last night 5-4 -- moving Notre Dame back into first place in the CCHA!  A big "thank you" to Dr. Jim Callahan (Philadelphia, PA) for reminding me that the winning goal last night was scored by freshman, T.J. Tyner -- who was named National Rookie of the Month! Here's the South Bend Tribune game story:



LINK:  IRISH BACK INTO FIRST PLACE!

LINK:  UND.COM -- GAME NOTES

"Domer" Haywood Leads Team to MAC Title!

Former University of Notre Dame football player and Offensive Coordinator -- Mike Haywood -- led his Miami of Ohio "Redhawks" to a Mid American Conference Championship last night when they upset (the 25th ranked)  Northern Illinois, with a TD in the final 33 seconds, 26-21 in the MAC Championship game!  Haywood (in photo holding trophy), in his second-year as a Head Coach, was 1-11 in his first year at Miami....  Now, they're the 9-4 Mid American Conference Champs and off to a bowl game!!!  INCREDIBLE TURN AROUND!  Here's a link to some video highlights and the post game press conference -- and story from last night's game:

LINK:  GAME HIGHLIGHTS AND HAYWOOD'S POST GAME PRESS CONFERENCE

LINK:  GAME STORY -- CHICAGO BREAKING SPORTS

Irish Soccer -- In National Championship Game!

Randy Waldrum's Fighting Irish beat Ohio State 1-0 today in the Semi-Finals of the College Cup -- Women's Soccer's Final Four -- to advance to Sunday's National Championship game against Stanford!!!  Notre Dame's loan goal was scored by freshman, Mandy Laddish (#2 in photo) -- her second goal of the season.  COULD BE A MOVIE HERE!  The game for the National Championship will be at NOON EST on Sunday -- on ESPN2.  It will match the undefeated and #1 ranked Cardinal of Stanford against the 7th ranked 20-2-2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish.  Here's a link to the "post game" press conference and the game highlights including the winning goal:  CONGRATULATIONS IRISH!!!!

LINK:  POST GAME PRESS CONFERENCE

LINK:  IRISH WIN! -- GAME HIGHLIGHTS!!!

Utah's Attempt @ "Welcome to Notre Dame"

Notre Dame fans and its opponents fans -- have come to expect to be greeted with the words; "Welcome to Notre Dame" (multiple times) when they attend a football game at Notre Dame Stadium.  The man responsible for this is -- Cappy Gagnon '66 -- Notre Dame's Program Manager, Crowd Control.  Cappy and his team of 857 ushers -- make the "Notre Dame Experience" -- world class and the envy of every opponents' fans who visit.  A letter ran today in the Salt Lake City Tribune -- that spoke to Utah's attempt to "re-create" the Notre Dame experience at their game this past Saturday with BYU.  Thought you would enjoy this!

LINK:  THE NOTRE DAME WAY...

Irish Women's Soccer On ESPN2 @ 4 PM EST

The 7th ranked Fighting Irish of Notre Dame will take on the 17th ranked Ohio State Buckeyes today in the first Semi-Final game of the Women's College Cup -- the 2010 National Championship!  The game will be televised on ESPN2 -- beginning at 4 PM EST.  It's the fifth straight year that Randy Waldrum's Irish are competing in Women's Soccer "Final Four."  Go IRISH!!!

Mike Brey Radio Show: Tonight @ 7 PM EST

University of Notre Dame Men's Basketball Coach, Mike Brey -- will be airing his first LIVE Radio Show this evening from Legends of Notre Dame at 7 PM EST.  UND.COM's Jack Nolan will sit alongside Coach Brey and co-host -- with what's planned to be an "every Thursday" event during the basketball season.  Notre Dame freshman, Jerian Grant is tonight's guest.  Here's a link to the show:

LINK:  MIKE BREY RADIO SHOW -- WATCH IT LIVE!

Irish Gear Up for Women Soccer's FINAL FOUR!

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame Women's Soccer Team is in Cary, NC today getting ready for tomorrow's Semi-Final game against Ohio State in the 2010 College Cup.  It's the fifth consecutive year that the Irish have made it this far!  Game time is 4:00 PM EST on ESPN2.  Here's a link to today's press conference with Irish Head Coach, Randy Waldrum and student athletes; Lauren Fowlkes and Jessica Schuveiller:

LINK:  NOTRE DAME GOES FOR THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

Where Are They Now? -- Bob Golic

These days, this former "two-time" First Team All-American Linebacker, member of the 1977 National Championship team (and something I didn't know) "two time" All-American wrestler  -- is better known as the "big brother" of Mike Golic of ESPN fame.  Don't tell him that!!!  Bob Golic, who played 13 years in the NFL and was a three time NFL Pro Bowl selection -- left the NFL for "Hollywood" where he starred in the sitcom "Saved by the Bell:  The College Years."  You also may recall seeing Bob in some "Nutri-System" commercials where he served as a spokesperson losing 140 lbs!  For the past five years, Golic has hosted his own daily "afternoon drive time" radio show 3 PM to 7 PM EST) in Akron at WNIR 101 FM - and when he's not on the radio you might find him in the downtown Cleveland's Warehouse District at his; Bob Golic's Sports Bar & Grille.  I'll never forget Golic's response to a question from a reporter about what it was like to play "Nose Tackle in the NFL" -- Bob's response:  "It's like being a fire hydrant at a dog show..."  Here's some links to websites on where you can catch up with Bob including a link to his radio show:

LINK:  BOB GOLIC'S OFFICIAL WEBSITE

LINK:  OFFICIAL WEBSITE FOR BOB GOLIC'S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE

LINK:  BOB GOLIC'S RADIO SHOW -- LISTEN LIVE!

NOTRE DAME'S FINAL OFFENSIVE RANKINGS

It's time for our FINAL look at where Notre Dame Football ranks in certain statistical categories amongst the 120 teams in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision -- FOR THE 2010 SEASON. In today's analysis you'll see how Notre Dame's Offense & Special Teams currently stand; on a national basis -- as compared to their final ranking for 2009 -- and the top teams in the country in each category.

OFFENSIVE TEAM STATISTICS

First Downs:  2010 Rank - #57 with 19.83 first downs per game -- in 2009 we averaged 24.4 first downs per game for the season, ranking us #4 -- Oklahoma leads the country with 27.08 first downs per game.  

Third Down Conversions:  2010 Rank - #76 with a 37.5% conversion rate -- in 2009 we had a 39.1% conversion rate for the season, ranking us #48 -- Stanford leads the country converting 57.76% of their third downs.  

Passing Yards Per Attempt:  2010 Rank - #75 with 6.8 yards passing per attempt -- in 2009 we averaged 8.7 yards passing per attempt, ranking us #7 in the country.  Auburn and Boise State lead the country averaging 10.3 yards per attempt.

Passing Yardage:  2010 Rank - #29 with 257 yards per game  (3,089 yards for the season)  -- in 2009 we passed for 323 yards per game (3,882 yards for the season), ranking us #7 -- Hawaii leads the country with 385 yards passing per game (4,618 yards for the season).  

Rushing Yards Per Attempt:  2010 Rank - #83 with 3.9 yards rushing per attempt -- in 2009 we averaged 3.8 yards rushing per attempt, ranking us #76 in the country.  Auburn and Nevada lead the country with an average of 6.5 yards rushing per attempt.  IMPROVEMENT!

Rushing Yardage:  2010 Rank - #97 with 121 yards rushing per game (1,450 yards for the season) -- in 2009 we rushed for 127 yards per game  (1,539 yards for the season), ranking us #88 -- Georgia Tech leads the country with 327 yards rushing per game (3,924 yards for the season). 

Most QB Sacks Given Up:  2010 Rank -- #66 giving up 19 QB sacks -- in 2009 we gave up 25 QB sacks for the season, ranking us #66 -- Washington State and Rutgers lead the country in giving up 46 QB sacks this season.  

Fewest Pass Interceptions Thrown:  2010 Rank -- #105 having thrown 16 pass interceptions this season -- in 2009 we threw 5 interceptions for the season, raking us #4  -- Army leads the country having thrown the few pass interceptions this season with 3.

Fewest Fumbles Lost:  2010 Rank -- #31 having lost 8 fumbles this season -- in 2009 we lost 9 fumbles for the season ranking us #39 -- Ohio State leads the country in fewest fumbles lost this season with 2.  IMPROVEMENT!

Fewest  Turnovers Lost:  2010 Rank - #84 with 24 turnovers lost -- in 2009 we had 14 turnovers for the season, ranking us #7 -- Iowa and Wisconsin lead the country with 9 turnovers lost for the season.  

Total Offense:  2010 Rank -- #63 with 378 yards per game of offense -- in 2009 we had 451 yards per game of offense, ranking us #8 -- Oregon leads the country 541 yards per game of offense. 

Points Per Game:  2010 Rank -- #73 with 25.75 points per game -- in 2009 we averaged 30.1 points per game for the season, ranking us #32 -- Oregon leads the country scoring 50.45 points per game.  

.

TEAM STATISTICS

Fewest Penalties:  2010 Rank - #10 with 55 penalties -- in 2009 we had 75 penalties for the season, ranking us #50 -- Wisconsin leads the country in the fewest penalties with 35.  IMPROVEMENT!

Fewest Penalty Yards:  2010 Rank -- #25 with 511 yards in penalties -- in 2009 we had 666 yards in penalties, ranking us #60 -- Navy leads the country in fewest penalty yards with 320.  IMPROVEMENT!

Net Punting Yards:  2010 Rank -- #72 with an average net of 36.9 yards per punt -- in 2009 we averaged 32.1 yards per punt, ranking us #112 -- Illinois leads the country with 44.6 net yards per punt.  IMPROVEMENT! 

Field Goals -- 2010 Rank -- #32 with 15 field goals made this season.  The Irish are 15 for 15 (100%) -- AND THE ONLY TEAM IN THE FBS THAT HAS NOT MISSED A FIELD GOAL THIS SEASON!  In 2009 we made 19 field goals, ranking us #22 -- while going 19 for 22 in the process.     

INDIVIDUAL LEADERS ON OFFENSE -- Ranked in top 100

Dayne Crist:
-Ranked #38 in the country with 226 passing yards, per game

-Ranked #72 in the country with 2,033 yards passing, for the season
-Ranked #45 in the country with 234 yards of total offense, per game

-Ranked #56 in the country with 15 TD passes
-Ranked #57 in the country with a 129.34 QB rating

-Ranked #65 in the country with a 59.2% pass completion percentage

-Ranked #77 in the country for most pass interceptions thrown with 7

-Ranked #3 in the country with a 95 yard pass completion / his 80 yard pass completion to Floyd would be ranked #29 in the country

David Ruffer:

-Ranked #1 in the country with most field goals made without a miss (15)
-Ranked #32 in the country in most field goals made with 15

-Ranked #35 in the country for longest field goal made - 50 yards
-Ranked #96 in scoring per game with a 6.58 points average

Michael Floyd:
-Ranked #24 in the country with 83 yards receiving per game

-Ranked #31 in the country with 916 yards receiving for the season

-Ranked #21 in the country with 73 pass receptions

-Ranked #13 in the country with 10 TD catches

-Ranked #29 in the country with an 80 yard catch

Kyle Rudolph:

-Ranked #3 in the country with a 95 yard catch

Tommy Rees:
-Ranked #61 in the country for most pass interceptions thrown with 8

ND Football Players -- Eligible for a Fifth Year

I received this question today from ND GO IRISH BLOG regular, R.J. Doyle: "What Notre Dame football players are eligible for a fifth year next season?"  A very good question -- let's first start with the list of seniors, who played this year for the Irish, who still have a fifth year of eligibility left.  Here goes:

Notre Dame Senior Football Players -- Eligible for a Fifth Year:

1. Taylor Dever, OT
2. Gary Gray, DB
3. Andrew Nuss, OG
4. Emeka Nwankwo, DE
5. Steve Paskorz, LB
6. Mike Ragone, TE
7. Matt Romine, OT
8. David Ruffer, K
9. Harrison Smith, S
10. Brandon Walker, K
11. Dan Wenger, C -- is seeking a "medical 6th year" of eligibility from the NCAA

If I had to make an educated guess -- I would suspect the following players have been asked by Coach Kelly to come back for a "fifth year:"  Dever, Gray, Nuss, Ragone, Romine, Ruffer and Smith.  And, I believe Notre Dame is doing what it can to assist Wenger in getting a sixth year of eligibility. 

We should know later this month!

The 25th Ranked Irish -- Beat Indiana State!

Mike Brey's Fighting Irish are now 8-0 after last nights 81-72 win over Larry Bird's alma mater, Indiana State.  This was a "tune-up" game for Notre Dame, as they get ready for the big game next Wednesday -- when they take on John Calipari's 10th ranked Kentucky Wildcats.  Here's a link to the South Bend Tribune's game story, along with a links to game highlights -- and Mike Brey's post game comments.  Go Irish!  Photo courtesy of the South Bend Tribune.

LINK:  SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE -- GAME STORY

LINK:  GAME HIGHLIGHTS -- ND vs. INDIANA STATE

LINK:  MIKE BREY'S POST GAME COMMENTS

A Domer's First Book -- An Autobiography?

Betsy Ross (we're not talking about the "flag maker") is a Notre Dame alum who you may recall seeing on ESPN's SportsCenter -- where she worked for five years in the late 90's.  Well, now you can add "author" to Betsy's resume -- her book "Playing Ball With The Boys" captures what it was like for a number of women who were the "pioneers" in sports, broadcasting and sports management.  After learning what Ross has done in her own life -- she probably could have just called this an "autobiography."  Betsy is president and founder of Game Day Communications and has more than 20 years of experience as a sports and news anchor.  Before anchoring SportsCenter and ESPN News, Ross worked at NBC News Channel and Cincinnati’s NBC affiliate, WLWT-TV.  And, she continues to be involved in sports broadcasting as play-by-play anchor for women’s college basketball for ESPN, Fox Sports and other national and regional outlets, and as a sports reporter for Cincinnati’s FOX 19.  Here's a link to a Cincinnati website's story on Betsy and a link to where you can buy her book!

LINK: A CINCINNATI.COM STORY ABOUT BETSY

LINK:  PLAYING BALL WITH THE BOYS -- AMAZON

A Christmas Message From Notre Dame...

I received an email today from the University of Notre Dame -- "A Christmas Message..."  Thought I'd share it with all of you.  Here's the link:

LINK:  A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM NOTRE DAME


 

NOTRE DAME'S FINAL DEFENSIVE RANKINGS!

It's time for our FINAL look at where Notre Dame football team's Defense ranks in certain statistical categories amongst the 120 teams in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision -- FOR THE 2010 SEASON.  In today's analysis you'll see how Notre Dame's defense currently stands on a national basis -- as compared to their final ranking for 2009 and against the top team in the country -- in each category this season.  Please note:  The Notre Dame Defense faced many of the top offensive teams in the country -- 10 of them will be playing in bowl games:

OPPONENTS OFFENSIVE RANKING -- TOTAL OFFENSE:

• #5 in the country -- Tulsa
• #6 in the country -- Michigan
• #14 in the country -- Stanford
• #30 in the country -- USC
• #36 in the country -- Navy
• #37 in the country -- Western Michigan
• #39 in the country -- Michigan State
• #42 in the country -- Utah

NOTRE DAME DEFENSE -- TEAM STATISTICS

Quarterback Sacks:  2010 Rank - #45 with 26 QB sacks -- in 2009 we had 19 QB sacks for the season, ranking us #92 -- Florida State leads the country with 43 QB sacks.  IMPROVEMENT!

Tackles for Loss:  2010 Rank - #65 with an average of 5.63 tackles for loss per game -- in 2009 we averaged 6.0 tackles for loss per game, ranking us #48 in the country.  Miami, FL leads the country with an average of 8.58 tackles for loss per game.  

Interceptions:  2010 Rank - #32 with 14 interceptions -- in 2009 we had 12 interceptions for the season, ranking us #50 -- Alabama leads the country with 21 interceptions.  IMPROVEMENT!

First Downs:  2010 Rank - #30 allowing an average of 17.92 first downs per game -- in 2009 we gave up an average of 19.67 first downs per game, ranking us #72   -- TCU leads the country giving up an average of 11.33 first downs per game.  IMPROVEMENT!

Third Down Conversion Rate:  2010 Rank - #22 allowing only 35.08% conversion rate on third down -- in 2009 we allowed a 39.5% conversion rate, ranking us #67 -- TCU leads the country allowing only a 21.85% conversion rate.  IMPROVEMENT!

Red Zone Efficiency:  2010 Rank - #53 allowing the team to score 81% of the time -- in 2009 we allowed teams to score 75% of the time, ranking us #15 -- Missouri leads the country allowing teams to score 55% of the time.

Turnovers Gained:  2010 Rank - #54 with 21 turnovers gained -- in 2009 we gained 19 turnovers for the season, ranking us #80 -- Hawaii and Toledo lead the country with 33 turnovers gained this season.  IMPROVEMENT!

Rushing Yards:  2010 Rank - #57 giving up an average of 147 yards rushing per game -- in 2009 we gave up an average of 170 yards rushing per game, ranking us #89 -- Boston College leads the country giving up an average of 80 yards rushing per game.  IMPROVEMENT!

Passing Yards:  2010 Rank - #44 giving up an average of 206 yards passing per game -- in 2009 we gave up an average of 227 yards passing per game, ranking us #76 in the country.  TCU leads the country giving up an average of 126 yards passing per game.  IMPROVEMENT!

Total Yards:  2010 Rank - #49 giving up 353 yards per game -- in 2009 we gave up an average of 397 yards per game, ranking us #86 -- TCU leads the country giving up 215 yards per game.  IMPROVEMENT!

Points Allowed Per Game:  2010 Rank - #29 giving up 20.5 points per game -- in 2009 we gave up 25.3 points per game, ranking us #63 -- TCU leads the country giving up 11.42 points per game.  IMPROVEMENT!

NOTRE DAME DEFENSE -- INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

Tackles Per Game:

• Manti Teo -- averaged 10.58 tackles per game -- ranked #16 in the country

Solo Tackles Per Game:

• Manti Teo -- averaged 5.42 solo tackles per game -- ranked #26 in the country

Sacks:

• Darius Fleming -- 5.5 sacks this season -- ranked #81 in the country
• Ethan Johnson --  5.0 sacks this season -- ranked #97 in the country

Passes Defended:

• Harrison Smith -- .92 passes defended per game -- ranked #42 in the country 

Interceptions

• Harrison Smith -- 4 interceptions this season -- ranked #27 in the country
• Darrin Walls -- 3 interceptions this season -- ranked #61 in the country

NOT BAD FOR A DEFENSE THAT ESPN'S KIRK HERBSTREIT CALLED

"HIGH SCHOOL"

Notre Dame Research Project: Why We Give

University of Notre Dame sociology professor, Christian Smith -- is leading an interesting research initiative that will merge economic, sociological, neurological and psychological studies to explain why some people give and some don't.  The John Templeton Foundation gave Notre Dame a $5 million grant to create the Science of Generosity Initiative.  Here's a link to the USA Today story:

LINK:  NOTRE DAME RESEARCH PROJECT

Notre Dame's Opponents: Win / Loss Records

At the beginning of this football season -- many, if not every -- Notre Dame fan thought we had an "easy" schedule...  Well, nothing could have been further from the truth.  Ready for two FUN FACTS you can share with your pals -- whose favorite school might be playing in a BCS Championship Bowl?  Here goes:

• Fun Fact #1:  Notre Dame played more bowl eligible teams this year -- than any college football team in America.  10 of Notre Dame's 12 opponents are bowl eligible -- the only teams that were not;  Purdue (only 4 wins) and USC (NCAA probation), who's won seven games going into Saturday's game against UCLA.
• Fun Fact #2:  Notre Dame's opponents have won more games than any other team's opponents in FBS.  Notre Dame's opponents have an overall Win/Loss record of:  92-48

Here's how the top 10 Teams in the BCS Rankings stack up against Notre Dame in these two aforementioned categories:

1. Auburn:  Played 8 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  83-60
2. Oregon:  Played 3 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  60-77
3. TCU:  Played 6 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  65-77
4. Stanford:  Played 3 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  67-69
5. Wisconsin:  Played 5 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  65-77
6. Ohio State:  Played 7 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  72-72
7. Arkansas:  Played 8 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  83-58
8. Michigan State:  Played 8 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  72-70
9. Oklahoma:  Played 7 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  83-58
10. LSU:  Played 9 bowl eligible teams this year -- Opponents Win/Loss:  84-58

Notre Dame & South Bend: National Award!

It was announced today that the National League of Cities 2010 Gold Award for Municipal Excellence will go to South Bend, IN for the Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization program (a joint effort between the University of Notre Dame and South Bend) to redevelop the area near the Notre Dame campus.  The program has led to numerous new developments across the city, including the Eddy Street Commons, a mixed-use development area; a new facility for the Indiana University School of Medicine at South Bend; and Innovation Park at Notre Dame, a state-certified technology park.  South Bend is just one of four cities in the country to receive the Gold Award -- the other three are:

• New York City
• Kingsport, TN
• Newport News, VA

Bowl Game Options For Notre Dame...

With Notre Dame's win over USC -- giving them a final record of 7 wins and 5 losses the Irish are still not a "given" to any of the Bowl Games potentially available to them.  Believe it or not -- Notre Dame's bowl destination could be riding on the outcomes of the Washington vs. Washington State game and the Oregon vs. Oregon State games this week.  Here's why:

1. Notre Dame has only one deal in place with a Bowl Game and that's the Champs Bowl.  The Champs Bowl has the option of selecting the Irish over a Big East team -- once, every four years.  
2. Beyond that deal -- the Irish are left to choose from any Bowl Game that doesn't have "qualifiers" from its conference affiliations.  This year -- the most options reside with the PAC 10 Conference -- where they have only 3 qualifiers (Oregon, Stanford and Arizona) for the six Bowl Games they have deals in place with.  Oregon and Stanford are locks for BCS Championship Bowl Games (one of the two will end up in the Rose Bowl) -- meaning the PAC 10 has one team currently qualified for their five other Bowl deals:  Bridgepoint Education Holiday Bowl, Valero Alamo Bowl, Hyundai Sun Bowl, MAACO Las Vegas Bowl and the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl.

The feeling by a few -- is Notre Dame will pass on the Champs Bowl this year -- "keeping this game in their back pocket" as an option for next year, because of all of the potential openings in the PAC 10 Bowl Games this year.  Please note -- there are conflicting reports as to whether Notre Dame could turn down a Champs Bowl invitation...

So, if we assume this to be true -- here's the remaining bowl options for the Irish.  Please note:  I've already taken the Valero Alamo Bowl out of play for Notre Dame -- most expect them to select the third place team in the PAC 10 Arizona.  Here's what's potentially left for the Irish -- depending on whether Oregon State and Washington become bowl eligible this weekend:

• Bridgepoint Education Holiday Bowl -- December 30th -- San Diego, CA
• Hyundai Sun Bowl -- December 31st -- El Paso, TX 
• MAACO Las Vegas Bowl -- December 22nd -- Las Vegas, NV
• Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl -- January 9th -- San Francisco, CA

Thus -- with all this said, if ND decides to hold off on the Champs Bowl this year (where they would more than likely play North Carolina State or Maryland) -- don't expect to hear ND's bowl destination until Sunday at the earliest. If Washington wins this Saturday -- as expected -- they will surely end up in San Diego for the Bridgepoint Education Holiday Bowl.  Which would leave the potential for a Notre Dame vs. Miami, FL game in El Paso at the Hyundai Sun Bowl.

Muffet's Irish Win WBCA Tournament Title!

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame's women's basketball team won the WBCA Women's Classic Basketball Tournament yesterday with a convincing 85-54 win over Butler in the championship game.  The Irish were led by Natalie Novosel (pictured) who scored a game high 20 points and was named the Tournament MVP!  Natalie was joined on the All Tournament team by her teammates; Devereaux Peters and Erica Solomon.  This was the 14th regular season tournament title win for the Notre Dame Women's Basketball program!  Here's a link to the South Bend Tribune story:

LINK:  IRISH WIN WBCA TOURNAMENT!

Wolfard '02 and Haney Survive Another Week!

Notre Dame alum, Thomas Wolfard '02 and his girlfriend Jill Haney are competing in CBS's The Amazing Race -- and competing well!  The two were in Hong Kong this week -- in this globe trotting adventure race.  And, if not for problems tracking down a taxi at the very end of the race -- they would have racked up another win -- as they seek the million dollar prize that goes to the winners!  Their second place finish ensured them they would move on to the next race -- only to learn that all four remaining teams advanced after the last place team wasn't eliminated from the competition.  The Amazing Race airs every Sunday night on CBS -- be sure to check in on "TEAM NOTRE DAME!"  Go Irish!  Here's a link to an interview of Thomas and Jill along with a replay of last night's episode:

LINK:  THOMAS AND JILL -- INTERVIEW

LINK:  THE AMAZING RACE -- HONG KONG

Irish Win Old Spice Classic Over Wisconsin!!!

 Mike Brey's Fighting Irish of Notre Dame -- beat Wisconsin tonight -- 58-51 to win the Old Spice Classic at Disney's Wide World of Sports!  A big time 15-0 run in the last four minutes of the game, reversed Wisconsin's eleven point lead -- as the Irish became the 7th team from the Big East to win a tournament this weekend!  Tim Abromatis was named Tournament MVP and Carlton Scott joined him on the All Tournament Team.  Congratulations!  The win vaults the Irish into the #25 spot in the latest AP Rankings.  Here's a link to the Milwaukee Journal story:

LINK:  IRISH WIN CHAMPIONSHIP!

Highlights -- Notre Dame's Win Over USC!

Here's a highlight video of Notre Dame's 20-16 victory over the USC Trojans -- put together by the gang at UND.COM.  The photo is courtesy of Notre Dame alum, Brian Meihaus '00 -- thanks Brian!  Here's the link -- enjoy!

LINK:  HIGHLIGHTS -- NOTRE DAME vs. USC

Don't Forget -- Irish On ESPN2 @ 7PM EST

Mike Brey's Fighting Irish basketball team is in the Championship Game of the Old Spice Classic at 7 PM EST today!  An undefeated Notre Dame (6-0) will take on a (6-1) Wisconsin team for the first time in 42 years -- hard to believe!  Be sure to tune in to ESPN2 at 7 PM EST!  GO IRISH!  Here's a link to a story on today's game:

LINK:  IRISH TAKE ON BADGERS FOR CHAMPIONSHIP!

Notre Dame Locker Room Celebration In LA!

Folks, I've posted the video of Notre Dame's victory celebration after last night's win over USC -- now in two places on the ND GO IRISH BLOG.  It's that good...  NOTRE DAME FOOTBALL IS BACK! -- and we can look back at these last three weeks for proof.  Doesn't it feel great!!!!

LINK:  NOTRE DAME'S LOCKER ROOM CELEBRATION

The Media -- The Morning After ND Beats SC!

As we've done most every week of the Notre Dame football season -- the ND GO IRISH BLOG takes a "lap" around the internet and seeks out the stories written about our favorite team -- the morning after.  The Fighting Irish faced extreme adversity last night in that second half -- and made us proud.  What an important win -- for the return of Notre Dame "Fighting Irish" Football.  The photo is of Robert Hughes game winning TD run!  Enjoy the stories:

LINK:  LOS ANGELES TIMES 

LINK:  LA DAILY NEWS

LINK:  ESPN LOS ANGELES -- BLOG

LINK:  NBC-LA

LINK:  NEW YORK TIMES

LINK:  CHICAGO TRIBUNE

LINK:  CHICAGO SUN TIMES

LINK:  NOTRE DAME CENTRAL

LINK:  ESPN CHICAGO -- BLOG

LINK:  FANHOUSE.COM

LINK:  SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE -- STORY #1

LINK:  SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE -- STORY #2

Notre Dame's Victory Over USC -- Post Game!

The gang at UND.COM were kind enough to post this upon their return from LA -- early this morning -- the team charter got in to South Bend around 6 AM.  Here's video from all of the post game activities; on the field and in the locker room celebrations, Coach Kelly's post game press conference and player interviews -- after Notre Dame's 20-16 win over USC!  Take special note of Defensive Coordinator Bob Diaco's hug and conversation with Tommy Rees in the locker room. This was a win for every fan of Notre Dame -- those in the stands and the millions around the world!  Notre Dame "Fighting Irish" Football -- is back.

LINK:  TEAM CELEBRATION -- ON FIELD AND IN LOCKER ROOM!

LINK:  COACH KELLY PRESS CONFERENCE

LINK:  PLAYER INTERVIEWS

IT'S NOW TIME TO RECRUIT A FEW STUDS!

Coach Brian Kelly and crew -- can hold their HEADS HIGH as they go into preparation for a Bowl Game and wrapping up a BIG TIME recruiting class!  Here's a link to a South Bend Tribune story about ND's recruiting prospects after the win over USC!

LINK:  LET'S GO GET SOME RECRUITS!

PHOTOS FROM THE IRISH VICTORY OVER USC

Here are the photos now being "tweeted" by @fightingirishff -- from the LA Coliseum!

Notre Dame's Post Game Snack...

This photo was just "tweeted" from the Notre Dame team bus, courtesy of Notre Dame senior defensive back -- Gary Gray!  It's a picture of the "two burgers" the Irish get for beating SC tonight!  Thought you'd enjoy this!

THE FIGHTING IRISH BEAT SC: 20-16 !!!

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame beat the Trojans of USC -- even after turning over the ball FOUR TIMES; 20-16 in a game and second half we won't soon forget!  Here's a picture of Robert Hughes who would not be denied in the Irish's last drive!!!!  As soon as I can find some "post game" video or stories -- I'll post it here!

LINK:  LANE KIFFIN'S POST GAME COMMENTS -- linked off of Trojans official site

LINK:  ESPN'S POST GAME RECAP

LINK:  ESPN VIDEO OF HARRISON SMITH INTERCEPTION

LINK:  ESPN HIGHLIGHTS -- memo to ESPN, ND beat USC in 2002!

LINK:  LA TIMES GAME STORY 

LINK:  LA TIMES -- BILL PLASCHKE COLUMN

LINK:  CHICAGO TRIBUNE GAME STORY

ND Leads USC At The Half -- 13 - 3!

Here's a photo of Notre Dame QB, Tommy Rees throwing a pass in the first half against USC!  He's thrown two TD's in the game -- as the Irish lead 13-3!

First Photo "Tweeted" From LA Coliseum!

Keith Arnold, NBC's Notre Dame Central "blogger" just tweeted this picture from his seat in the press box at the Los Angeles Coliseum.  Go Irish!