Photo Illustration by ANDREA ARCHER page 2 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

COMMENTARY FOOTBALL RECRUITING Peaks and valleys Prater, Ferguson make official visits get over the hump,’” Frank that.” By MATT GAMBER said. “That’s really the message Unlike Prater, Ferguson has define four years Sports Editor you can sell at this point — that yet to declare a leader in his you’ve done a lot of good, bad recruiting search. ESPN lists Notre Dame will host a pair of bounces and things not quite Miami, LSU, Oklahoma and Four seasons ago, Notre put it all together again, and highly touted recruits — wide going our way, but we’re close Maryland as schools the Dame was ranked as the sec- prove sophomore year was a receiver Kyle Prater and defen- in every game.” Frederick, Md., product is con- ond-best team in the country. fluke on the way back to sive tackle J.R. Ferguson — for Notre Dame hopes to take one sidering in addition to Notre Brady Quinn, Travis Thomas prominence. There was a win Saturday’s game against step closer to securing commit- Dame. and Tom Zbikowski were on over Michigan for the first Connecticut, but high school ments from both of its guests “He’s an athletic guy that can the cover of Sports time, and a 4-1 start to begin players with an interest in the this weekend. Prater and move,” Frank said. “He’s got a Illustrated. that junior campaign. Irish will have their eyes and Ferguson are lot of offers and The Irish were a true Everything quickly went ears tuned in to South Bend this both 4-star there’s good national downhill again, though, weekend. And that may have as prospects by “It would be foolish reason for it. champi- beginning with small disap- much to do with the product on E S P N . c o m ’ s Guys that big onship con- pointments in the close losses the field as the media circus off rankings. to say that recruits usually don’t tender, had to North Carolina and it surrounding Charlie Weis’ The 6-foot-6 don’t hear the move like he the Heisman Pittsburgh, and ended with future at the school. Prater is one of speculation, but does.” frontrunner the Senior Day loss in the “It would be foolish to say that the top At 6-foot-3, under center snow to Syracuse and yet recruits don’t hear the specula- receivers in his the coaches have 275 pounds, and a top- another crushing at the hands tion, but the coaches have to do class. The to do their best job Ferguson is tier of the Trojans. their best job of explaining the Proviso West of explaining the already a physi- recruiter Michael Bryan Then, suddenly three years situation,” said Mike Frank, an H.S. product out cal force. But and play- had flown by. For this group, Irish recruiting analyst who of Hillside, Ill., situation.” Frank said caller on Associate and for us students, it was the runs the ESPN-affiliated site has issued a schools are even the side- Sports Editor last try. The last home opener, irishsportsdaily.com. “At the verbal commit- Mike Frank more excited lines. last chances at beating Boston end of the day, I think recruits ment to USC, Irish recruiting analyst about his poten- Four sea- College and USC and now the should choose a school because but after com- tial to add mus- sons later, the Notre Dame final home game in these of the school, the players. ing to Notre cle with a col- football experience has been seats — although I’m not dis- Obviously coaching plays a huge Dame for the Irish-Trojans lege strength and conditioning nothing we thought it would counting sneaking back in the part, but coaches come and go, matchup, he decided to take an program. be. This senior class has been student section the next few and assistant coaches especially official visit to South Bend. “He’s just scratching the sur- through a whirlwind of years. come and go all the time. It’s “I think he’d like to stay closer face of his real potential,” Frank improbable successes and This season again hasn’t more about selling the Notre to home if he could, but at the said. “He’s got great upside. sudden failures, and we’ve been what we expected, but I Dame program, tradition and same time, I think he likes a lot Where other guys might come learned to take nothing for think by now we’re starting to academics.” about USC and their offense,” in as a polished project, he’s got granted. get used to a little disappoint- Frank said while winning Frank said. “That’s something a whole lot to work with. That’s Our first home game was a ment. A program like Notre games is a program’s best that really intrigues him. It’s a why so many teams are inter- 41-17 stomping of No. 19 Dame should have higher recruiting tool, the close nature nice environment out there as ested in him.” Penn State. This followed a standards than its perform- of Notre Dame’s four losses — well.” shaky opener at Georgia Tech, ance over our four years and which have come by a com- “He’s always been involved For more on Notre Dame but after rout- the last bined 18 points — allows the with Notre Dame, and they have recruiting, check out Mike ing Joe Pa decade, but Irish coaches to tell recruits just always liked him,” Frank said. Frank’s irishsportsdaily.com. and the we’re a new how close they believe the pro- “It’s all about the offense and E-mail Mike at Nittany Lions, This senior class generation of gram is to achieving greater how he’s going to fit in there. [email protected] and the title talk has been through students. success. And more importantly, if he tell him The Observer sent you. was reignited a whirlwind of The last “They get on the phone and likes hanging out with the Notre — only to be improbable successes year Notre just say ‘Hey, we need you. If we Dame players, and the environ- Contact Matt Gamber at doused by Dame won a get a few of these players, we ment, what he thinks about [email protected] Michigan a and sudden failures, national week later. and we’ve learned to championship And even take nothing for was the same though 2006 year many of was largely a granted. us were born. disappoint- We shouldn’t ment, we took tolerate low- for granted everything that ering the standards of the was good about that team. greatest college football pro- Sure, we were dismantled gram and tradition in the by our two biggest rivals and country, but we’ve grown to against LSU in the Sugar accept that that was long ago, Bowl, but we were ranked in and we’re a long way away the top-10 all year. from the days where we We had the comeback at expected to compete for titles Michigan State in the rain every year. and, subsequently, a celebra- Instead of looking back at tion in Stonehenge. We this season in frustration and enjoyed a last-second win calling it another failure, I against UCLA and yelled want to remember the great “Beat SC” for half an hour parts of Notre Dame football after an unbelievable senior we were a part of. We saw class played its last game in two of the greatest quarter- green at Notre Dame backs at a school with a histo- Stadium. ry of great quarterbacks. We And more than anything, we had numerous last-second had hope and optimism. We wins and have seen some of were 19-6 and in BCS bowls the most phenomenal during two seasons with receivers in program history. Charlie Weis, and while we And really, in the end, I just would definitely take a step want this one to end on a back with Brady, Samardzija good note. One of the worst and Co. leaving, our junior parts about the Syracuse loss and senior years looked to be was thinking how terrible it full of promise. would be for the seniors that But our sophomore year, we were on the field and in the fell a lot further than expect- stands to have that be their ed. We were humiliated by last home game as students. our biggest rivals and became This could be the last home a national punch line. We lost game for a few players that to Navy for the first time in 44 aren’t seniors, too, and I hope games, and we couldn’t keep as a team they just get this the game close at home one. As a gift for the seniors against Air Force. Our coach playing their last game on suddenly seemed a little lost that field, and for the seniors and confused, but we still had standing together one last some hope left. So we blamed time. it on the poor recruiting of the last coach. The views expressed in this At least we had talented column are those of the young players, we thought, author and not necessarily and as gifted a quarterback those of The Observer. as anyone in the nation. It Contact Michael Bryan at looked like we would start to [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 3

ERIC OLSEN Olsen holds down offensive line as captain

way,” Olsen said. “To get his By MATT GAMBER advice and use his experiences Sports Editor is definitely to my benefit.” It also hasn’t hurt that his As one of Notre Dame’s four new role has allowed him — co-captains — and as the forced him, even — to keep on “quarterback of the offensive talking. line,” as Irish coach Charlie “I’ve really embraced it and Weis put it — center Eric tried to have as much fun as I Olsen has been doing a lot of can with it,” Olsen said. “I feel talking in his senior season. like I’ve been doing a solid job Not that it’s a problem for helping the other guys. It real- the Staten Island, N.Y., native. ly fits my personality, being in “I’m a New York guy and I’ve the middle of all the action, got a big mouth anyway,” making the calls.” Olsen said. “The position suits As a captain Olsen plays a me, being able to make the similar role for the team as a calls for the offensive line. And whole. While he said he had as a captain, I’m a vocal guy been one of the team’s more on the team anyway. I’m not vocal players in the past, serv- afraid to let my voice be ing as a captain has given a heard, so it’s something I’ve new perspective and a new set excelled in.” of responsibilities. Olsen made the move from “I’ve got to keep my cool a guard, where he had started lot more. I can’t let my emo- 19 straight games entering the tions get the best of me in cer- season — the last 13 on the tain situations,” Olsen said. “I left side, the first six on the just have to see the big picture right — over to center after as a leader of the team and the arrival of first-year offen- make sure I stay open-minded IAN GAVLICK/The Observer sive line coach Frank Verducci throughout the course of the Senior center Eric Olsen has played in 32 games in his Irish career, starting 19. He has started following the game and in every game for Notre Dame over the past two seasons. 2008 season. practice.” “When he The additional said. “I think that’s why the Young and guards Chris completed the touchdown cele- went through “I’ve got to keep my responsibilities team voted him as one of the Stewart and Dan Wenger — bration ritual. “It’s funny how winter work- cool a lot more. I bestowed upon co-captains. He happens to be makes for a good time, Olsen things go full-circle and now outs, just watch- can’t let my emotions Olsen this sea- one of my personal favorites, said. I’m one of those guys. But ing him move son are ones too. A little of that Northeast “We’ve got some real char- being a veteran and being and then look- get the best of me in he’s proud to bias.” acters in our group. around here for so long, I ing at his body certain situations.” have earned — Olsen said the relationship Everyone’s got their own per- know how things work and type, just in my and that will with his head coach goes both sonality and brings something now it’s my turn to teach it to eye, he looked Eric Olsen keep him talk- ways. He initially took a liking different to the table,” Olsen the younger guys.” like he had cen- senior center ing for some to Weis, a New Jersey native, said. “If you sit in on one of That is especially true this ter qualities,” time. because of their similar back- our meetings, we have a lot of week, as Weis Tuesday told the Verducci said. “Being voted a grounds. But Olsen said he fun.” media that he had informed “One of the captain at Notre quickly got to know, and like, And that’s one place where his seniors that this was “your things we thought we could Dame is something that’s going his coach for other reasons. Olsen certainly isn’t the only week.” Weis said he’d have his upgrade at the time was the to stay with me for the rest of “We have real similar per- one doing the talking. veterans address the team push in the middle at the cen- my life. It’s something I’ll sonalities in many ways, just “Everyone’s pretty much a after each practice during the ter position, and he’s done a always be proud of and will our whole outlook on life,” talker, but everyone can be week, and there’s no doubt nice job of that.” tell my grandkids and so on,” Olsen said. “We kind of clicked quiet at times too,” Olsen said Olsen would be one of those Olsen said he embraced the Olsen said. “That responsibili- over the past few years and of his fellow linemen. “We’ve guys. position switch right away and ty is something I wanted to be obviously got a chance to get got really good personalities “I think it’s a compliment to enjoyed learning the intricate put on my shoulders, and I to know each other a lot bet- across the board. We have fun the seniors and the leaders on differences between guard and embraced the role of being a ter. Our relationship just grew with each other and give each the team that he can trust put- center. And the fact that captain. I’ve tried to have as from there.” other a hard time, but we’re a ting it on our shoulders to lead Verducci, with eight years of much fun as I can with it.” The same could be said for really close-knit group.” the team this week,” Olsen NFL coaching experience, was Weis said his team’s choice Olsen’s relationships with his In some respect, Olsen said said. “That’s what we have to there to guide him will only of Olsen as one of its four co- fellow offensive linemen. A they have had to be over the do.” help Olsen as he prepares for captains was one he support- naturally tight-knit group, the last few years, during which With that in mind, Olsen said a professional career. ed, both because of the cen- fact that the offensive line the line shouldered some of he thinks back to last year, “Someone with that kind of ter’s role on the field and includes fifth-year senior tack- the blame for an inconsistent and specifically, the week knowledge, I try to pick his Olsen’s personality off of it. le Paul Duncan and three offense. leading up to Notre Dame’s brain all the time and use that “He’s a tough guy and people other seniors who regularly “These guys work hard and Senior Day game against as a tool for myself in a selfish kind of gravitate to him,” Weis see playing time — tackle Sam have a lot of pride,” Olsen Syracuse. That week, Olsen said. “We’ve taken the whip- said, then-Irish tackle Mike pings around here for the last Turkovich addressed all the few years, but it hasn’t really offensive linemen and stopped any of us from show- explained what playing for ing up to work every day and Notre Dame meant to him busting our butts.” while offering advice to those That hard work is gratified, who still had some time left to Olsen said, when the line can strap on that gold helmet. partake in the successes of the “He still wishes he was part offense as a whole. With stars of the team now, and he’s still like Jimmy Clausen and texting me like he is on the Golden Tate, there have been team,” Olsen said. “I can see plenty of spectacular plays to how much guys like that do celebrate this season. But one miss it. When you’re a senior that comes to mind for Olsen and your time is winding — and one that illustrates his down, it really starts to hit role as one of Notre Dame’s home.” most important leaders — So what is that message that doesn’t include either of those Olsen received last year and guys. will pass on this week? After Dayne Crist through his “Cherish it,” Olsen said. first career touchdown pass, a “Whether you’re a freshman 64-yard strike during the 40- or a senior walking out the 14 Irish win over Washington door, you’re not going to have State, the sophomore quarter- football forever. You’re not back looked almost too excited going to be at this place forev- to celebrate — at least in the er. Just cherish every moment. way Clausen does, by running Injuries can happen any time over to Olsen, who lifts his and you never know what can quarterback toward the sky. happen in your football career. “When I was a freshman, I So just cherish every game, was running out there like that every practice, and make the too, looking for something to most of every opportunity.” VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer do. It took the older guys to Olsen moved from guard to center prior to the 2009 season, and has served as a solid anchor for kind of reel me in,” said Olsen, Contact Matt Gamber at an experienced Irish offensive line. who eventually found Crist and [email protected] page 4 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

MARTIN QUINTANA Parents encourage defensive lineman to keep trying out

Irish as a freshman, but was By MICHAEL BLASCO cut. Sports Writer “I was decent in high school, and I tried out freshman The motto of St. Joseph High year,” Quintana said. “I got cut School, where Martin and didn’t make it. The coach- Quintana suited up for the es, even though I got cut, said Chargers, is Vincit Qui Laborat they liked me and wanted me — “victory belongs to those to keep working hard at it.” who work.” No statement Despite the encouragement describes the senior defensive from the coaching staff, lineman better. Quintana needed a little boost “I take a lot of pride in com- to keep going, which came in ing in every day and working the form of his father. my butt off,” Quintana said. “My dad really pushed me “You’re waking up at 5:30 for it,” Quintana said. “He a.m. and not getting back until encouraged me to keep work- 8 at night. It’s challenging and ing hard. He kept my head up it’s tough, but this has pre- when I got cut, and he was the pared me for anything that life first guy that brought me back will throw at me.” up from how I felt.” In Quintana’s three years Quintana brought his work suiting up for the Irish, he has ethic to the interhall fields as given the program everything a freshman, playing for he could, knowing that it Stanford. The 6-foot-1, 250- would give him everything pound lineman was part of a back in spades. Quintana, a dominant Griffins defense that Berwyn, Ill., native, is a walk- surrendered only seven points on senior with three seasons in seven games, going 7-0 en of experience at defensive line route to a victory over Keenan IAN GAVLICK/The Observer for Notre Dame. in the Interhall Championship Senior defensive lineman Martin Quintana was persuaded to by his mother and father to keep working Quintana, formerly of in Notre Dame Stadium. out, keep his head up and to try out again. Stanford and then Duncan With a season on the grid- Hall, came to Notre Dame iron under his belt — and a time, playing for the Irish was much as possible, calling it an Still, Quintana said just put- after attending St. Joseph taste of playing in the House something different entirely. honor to be around the likes of ting on the uniform was the High School in Westchester, That Rockne Built — Quintana Quintana said being around defensive line coach Randy best part of his time at Notre Ill., on the west side of took another shot at trying out guys like Pat Kuntz and other Hart and graduate assistant Dame. Chicago. He was drawn to for the varsity. This time, his defensive linemen was surre- and four-time NFL all-pro “It’s such a unique experi- South Bend by the same quali- tenacity and effort earned him al. Bryant Young. ence that only a few people ties that have called Domers a spot as a walk-on. “I had heard a lot of stories “[Hart’s] been coaching for get to be a part of,” Quintana for decades. Who was happiest? about Pat Kuntz and some of 40-plus and to hear all the said. “It’s a great feeling to “There’s something special Quintana’s parents, naturally. the other guys,” Quintana knowledge and expertise that say that I represent the here. It’s something you want “He was ecstatic,” Quintana said. “They were very intimi- he brings to the table is University of Notre Dame foot- to be a part of,” Quintana said. said. “My mom was going dating guys. But they’re so incredible,” Quintana said. ball team.” “You come here, and you have around to everyone at work, fun, and I had so much fun “Bryant has very high expec- Quintana is a finance major an identity and a culture right saying how her son was play- around them. I tried to soak it tations, and he brings the best and plans to work in that away. It’s the community and ing for Notre Dame. They all in.” of you. He coaches me directly capacity after graduation. the atmosphere. It’s so differ- were so excited.” Quintana has spent his time on the scout team, and getting ent than anywhere else.” Although he had played foot- playing for the Notre Dame coached along by a future NFL Contact Michael Blasco at Quintana tried out for the ball at a high level for a long scout team trying to soak in as Hall of Famer is amazing.” [email protected]

MORRICE RICHARDSON Richardson eyes success in the business world

11 in 2008. degree and a job, every other By DOUGLAS FARMER “It has been frustrating, being day is a party.” News Writer able to make plays but still not But Richardson isn’t done getting much [playing time],” he thinking about football. He has Short-term glory might be fun, said. been coached for four years by a but senior defensive end Morrice Dealing with his frustration, coach with NFL experience, and Richardson has eyed long-term Richardson gained a work ethic Richardson relished every lesson success since the day he decided that should attract offers from Charlie Weis dispensed. to come to Notre Dame. big businesses. “[Weis] knows what he’s talk- The Atlanta native always “Even though I haven’t been ing about,” Richardson said. “So dreamed of playing football in playing, I still have prepared like whenever he yelled at me it did- the Southeastern Conference, I was playing,” he said. “It is n’t really bother me. I would dis- for a powerhouse like LSU or that type of position where when regard the tone and listened to Georgia, but opted to come you get on you have to produce the words.” north for one reason. right away.” In listening to the words, “The thing that won me over That preparation has carried Richardson’s NFL dreams live about Notre Dame was the aca- right back to the classroom as on, as after listening to stories demics,” Richardson said. well, where Richardson will from Weis and other Irish play- In letting academics determine graduate with a management- ers from the NFL, he has his decision of where to play consulting degree from the learned sometimes it is the play- football, Richardson’s time in Mendoza College of Business in er you don’t expect who makes college was not going to be May. it in the next level. gauged only by his success on “There were some times after “There are a lot of guys that the field, but also his progres- an accounting final — notice I left a college program who sion in class. keep saying accounting — we’d played every snap but didn’t “The academic aspect has be walking out of Jordan Hall play any snaps at the next been really good. I can’t com- IAN GAVLICK/The Observer wanting to cry thinking, ‘What level,” he said. “And there are a plain about that,” he said. “I’ve Senior defensive end Morrice Richardson came to Notre Dame did I just do?’” he said. “It’s lot of guys who didn’t play in learned a lot and met a lot of because of its academic prestige. worth it, definitely worth it.” college but made it in the next people. One day when I decide Richardson said all the work level.” to go into the business world I’ll Richardson said. “Hopefully one to be strong to deal with,” he he has put in at Notre Dame is Not that Richardson is overly have a leg up coming from the day, I’ll be able to branch off said. worth it because he knows what concerned about making it in number two business program and start my own consulting One of those football situations rewards he will reap in the the NFL. He knows Notre Dame in the country.” company.” has been his scarce playing future. has prepared him for long-term He will need a leg up to reach Richardson said football has time, even through relative suc- “Some people say that college success as well as possible his goals, which are just as lofty helped prepare himself for the cess on the field. Richardson has is the best time of your life and short-term glory. off the field as they ever have elite business world. seen action in all four of his it’s the time to party,” he said. “I “Whatever is for me, I have a been on the field. “A lot of the things you come years, but has never started a think those are the people that good degree and have a good “After football I want to try to across in the real world I came game, and through his first don’t go to Notre Dame. Every work for one of the top four pri- across playing football here as three years with the Irish had day we have to struggle, but Contact Douglas Farmer at vate consulting firms,” well, a lot of situations you have recorded 18 tackles, including after here, when you have a [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 5

ROBBY PARRIS Parris catches everything thrown his way

meaningful action of his Irish By SAM WERNER career in the season opener Associate Sports Editor against Georgia Tech, and caught three passes for 30 Not many players on the yards. Two weeks later, Parris Irish roster can say that recorded his first career start they’ve also been a YouTube at Michigan Stadium against superstar. the Wolverines. Parris also Robby Parris can. scored the first touchdown of This past spring, Parris, his Notre Dame career that along with junior running season against Boston back Armando Allen, senior College. running back James Aldridge His junior season, Parris and then-senior defensive was forced to compete with lineman Pat Kuntz, recorded five-star freshman Michael a music video titled “Bend but Floyd for playing time. While Don’t Break.” The video gar- Parris was still an effective nered some notable, if only receiver for the Irish, he also fleeting, Internet fame. learned to take on a mentor “We had a couple thousand role to Floyd and then-sopho- views within like five hours,” more wide receiver Golden Parris said. “But then we had Tate. to take it down.” “You definitely get into Even though his career as more of a teaching role, an Internet celebrity may because when these guys have been short-lived, Parris’ come in you know there’s time on the gridiron has not. something special about Coming out of St. Ignatius them,” Parris said. “I could High School in Cleveland, tell when they came in that QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer Parris played in six games his these guys were going to play. Senior wide receiver Robby Parris is the most experienced receiver on the Irish roster. Parris was one of the freshman year, catching one So just being a little bit older, players who came up big when sophomore Michael Floyd went down because of an injury earlier this season. pass for seven yards in Notre being on the field, seeing a Dame’s loss to Michigan. little bit more than they’ve Despite the limited playing seen, you just kind of turn before that, and then the next there and make sure I do because my leg got so twisted time in his first season, Parris into more of a teacher role for year we’re in Hawaii living it everything mentally right.” up. I thought I had torn my knew that a college football them.” up. We had fun down in Parris said he considered ACL because my leg got so career was more about the Wide receivers coach Rob Hawaii and then had a big his hands to be his biggest twisted. I was in excruciating long haul. Ianello said Parris has been game, kind of laid it on them attribute as a receiver, and so pain in my leg.” “In high school, you’re the invaluable in the film room really good.” far those hands have caught Despite the pain, Parris said man and then you come in helping the younger receivers Parris said the win over the 22 passes for 210 yards and a his main goal was just to not and want to be the man in develop. Warriors, as well as Notre touchdown this season. let go of the ball. college,” Parris said. “When “Robby asks good ques- Dame’s dominating 35-0 “When a ball’s thrown to “I mean, my leg literally just things don’t go your way, it’s tions,” Ianello said. “And a lot shutout of Nevada to open me, I have confidence in bent backwards and then I definitely a little wrinkle in of times he might ask ques- 2009, helped the Irish get the myself that I’ll catch it if it’s got drilled in the back of your plans, but just sticking it tions for other guys as ball rolling in a positive direc- anywhere near me,” Parris head,” he said. “But it was out and staying confident for opposed to himself. He asks tion. said. “I take a lot of pride in fourth down, do or die, so I four years and you’ll get your good questions when looking “When we do put it all that because I’m obviously just had to hold on to it.” chance.” at the film, and he’s a very together and have big wins not the fastest guy, but if the Ianello, though, wasn’t sur- Parris got that chance in heady player.” like that, it does get your con- ball’s thrown to me, I can prised by Parris’ tenacity. 2007, his sophomore season. Parris caught nine passes fidence going and get your catch it, and that’s a good “I think Robby has been a With the graduation of Jeff for 50 yards in 2008, and, like morale up a little bit,” he thing.” guy with us for four years Samardzija and Rhema the rest of the Irish squad, said. Many of those catches came that’s been a real steady guy, McKnight. Parris was one of enjoyed a trip to Hawaii at Heading into the 2009 sea- when Floyd suffered a broken a guy we can count on,” only three receivers on the the end of the season for the son, Parris said he knew his collarbone in the third game Ianello said. “He’s really Irish roster that had regis- Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. He role on the team as a compli- of the season against shown some great toughness, tered a catch the previous added that the team’s strug- ment to the All-American Michigan State. In the five mentally and physically here.” season. gles the season before made skills of Floyd and Tate. games Floyd missed, Parris As his collegiate football Even though the Irish strug- the trip to paradise — and “I’m not going to go out caught 13 passes for 156 career comes to a close, gled to a 3-9 record in 2007, Notre Dame’s 49-21 victory there and have 200-yard yards, even though Parris Parris said he’ll remember Parris flourished, finishing over Hawaii — just a little bit receiving games like these himself missed the majority of the off-field moments more third on the team with 29 sweeter. guys [Floyd and Tate],” Parris two games due to injury. than anything that happened catches and second with 361 “It does taste a little bit bet- said. “These guys are miracu- “When [Floyd] went down, on the gridiron. receiving yards. ter. We didn’t even get to go lous at how they could do we just knew it was time to “The best thing about play- The sophomore saw the first to a bowl game the year that. I’m just going to go out pick it up,” Parris said. “I ing is just hanging out with mean, Michael’s probably one these guys in the locker room, of the top five receivers in the just screwing around,” Parris country, so when he got hurt, said. “That’s better than any- it left a lot of opportunities thing that’s happened on the for me and the other field.” receivers to step up.” Parris said he wants to give Parris had his biggest game professional football a try, but of the season, and his Irish that he has a backup plan career, against USC. Despite ready. catching nine passes for 92 “Maybe this football thing yards, Parris was quick to will work out, maybe it downplay his performance. won’t,” Parris said. “I’m not “It was cool, I guess,” he going to put all my eggs in said. “I really didn’t even that basket, though.” think of it like a ‘breakout Parris has continued his game’ because I just did what music endeavors, recording I had to do. They threw it to songs with teammates as well me and I caught it. I didn’t do as local musician and Notre anything spectacular.” Dame senior Pat McKillen. He The biggest catch of the said former Notre Dame nine was undoubtedly a 13- receiver David Grimes also yard grab Parris made on a helped out with his music. fourth-and-10 pass from “Grimes is the man,” Parris quarterback Jimmy Clausen said. “He’s always around. on Notre Dame’s final drive. He’s like wisdom. Everything The play gave the Irish a first that comes out of his mouth, down and drove them down to you want to listen to it USC’s 16-yard line. because he’s just so helpful in “I knew it was fourth down, anything you’ve got.” so all I was trying to think One thing is for sure, about was holding on to the though. Parris’ career as an ball,” Parris said. Internet personality has come After he caught the ball, to a close. Parris’ leg got twisted in the “We always screw around turf, and he was drilled by with it,” Parris joked. “But no Trojans safety Taylor Mays. more YouTube videos for us.” TOM LA/The Observer “At the time, I didn’t even Parris goes out of bounds close to the end zone after catching a pass on a fake field goal during know that he came in from Contact Sam Werner at Notre Dame’s 34-27 loss to USC on Oct. 17. behind and hit me in the head [email protected] page 6 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

JOSHUA STULL Dillon player overcomes injury to make team

continued to work out in hopes By ALLAN JOSEPH of making the team, waking up Sports Writer at 4:45 a.m. for months to work out despite his injuries. For most who compete at “I was in Rolfs working out Riehle Field on Sundays repre- with a broken leg,” he said. senting their hall, the thought of Despite his earlier setbacks, donning a gold-painted helmet, Stull again tried out for the team touching the “Play Like a last spring, making the cut in Champion Today” sign and run- time to be on the roster for this ning out of the tunnel to the season, his senior year. cheers of more than 80,000 fans “My favorite memory has to be on a Saturday afternoon is noth- running out of the tunnel for ing more than a pipe dream. Nevada,” he said. “It was just an For Dillon unbelievable expe- Hall’s Joshua rience.” Stull, however, “After two years, I To Stull, that that dream moment repre- became a reali- finally got a chance sented the culmi- ty. on my last nation of all of the Stull, a 5- opportunity.” hard work he had foot-8, 189- put in over his pound corner- time at Notre back from Joshua Stull Dame and toward Brownsburg, senior linebacker his ultimate goal Ind., wears the of putting on the VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer number 43 for blue and gold on Senior linebacker Joshua Stull started his college football career on the Dillon Hall squad but Coach Weis’ team now, but his Saturdays. He had fought made the varsity team in his senior year. path to the home sideline of through injuries and rejection to Notre Dame Stadium was not, finally make the team for one “It’s actually one of the first recruits. paying lip service to the idea of by any means, a straight one. year, and entering the Stadium things my mom noticed about “It’s a little intimidating being studying, however — Stull is a Stull played on the Big Red showed him the value of his per- the team.” around all these Division I ath- double history and theology Interhall team his freshman severance and what he was able He also vividly remembers the letes,” he said. “It’s definitely a major. He plans to work at year at Notre Dame and was to achieve. opportunities he has had during humbling experience. In high General Mills in Minnesota after poised to do so again during his “Everybody wants to do this,” practice — the first time he school I was one of the top play- graduation. sophomore year when he broke he said. “To actually be able to heard “Stull, get in there!” dur- ers on the team, but here, your “My favorite part of being on his leg, ruining any chance of do it, that’s a really special ing the first week of practice confidence gets a check and you the football team,” Stull said, “is his playing for Dillon Hall that thing.” was a “wow” moment, he said. realize who you are.” just being a part of something so year. Though he is small by most Stull was appreciative that the Naturally, Stull’s favorite special. After two years, I finally In the spring, however, Stull football standards, Stull enjoys coaches made an effort to see aspect of the Notre Dame expe- got a chance on my last opportu- tried out for the varsity team but being a part of the football team. what the walk-ons had to offer rience is the football games, nity.” failed to make the roster, as he “Yeah, I’m definitely one of the the team, though they may not though of course the academics was still not fully recovered smallest guys in the locker be in the same physical category of the University are important Contact Allan Joseph at from his injury. He doggedly room,” he said with a laugh. as the four- and five-star to him as well. He is not just [email protected]

TOM BURKE Walk-on linebacker gets starting role against BC

exceptional numbers in high on the gridiron. By CHRIS MASOUD school, including a 14-tackle “Naturally all the walk-ons Sports Writer game, Burke realized his are really close,” Burke said. dream could become a reality. “You go through a lot of the The stat line of Notre “I always wanted to go to same things, you have the Dame’s victory over Boston Notre Dame since I was little,” same experiences and natu- College this season featured Burke said. “I’m the first in rally that binds you pretty the numbers Irish fans have my family to go here, but I tight. It doesn’t really matter come to expect from the star always knew it was a special who it is, whether it’s Brian playmakers. What the box place. It was always a goal Smith at linebacker, a really score and game notes don’t going through high school, welcoming guy, or Kerry Neal show is the biggest moment in and I’ve worked hard and was or John Ryan. They’re all just senior Tom Burke’s career. able to come.” really good guys and we have Starting on the punt return While balancing the work- a really good team dynamic.” team for the Irish, Burke load of a double major in Unless your name is Rudy, stepped onto the field for the finance and economics and walk-ons usually don’t get the first time in a regular season the commitment to the team, praise and glory attached to game. Burke says he appreciates his scholarship players. “That was just really surre- decision to come to Notre Nevertheless, Burke has come al,” Burke Dame each to take pride in his role as said. “As a day. scout team middle linebacker, w a l k - o n “I’ve met my pushing himself and his team- you’re on the “The first time stepping off best friends mates to get better each s i d e l i n e s that sideline actually onto out here in week. every week, school, and “It does get pretty intense but that day the field to play a down I’m sure they’ll between the scout team and was my day against an opposing team be my best the offense, and that’s our job, to contribute with the crowd and the friends for the to make it intense,” Burke and play rest of my said. “We’re never going to be VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer m e a n i n g f u l intensity of the game, it life,” he said. able to completely mimic the Senior linebacker Tom Burke got his first opportunity to start time in the was really special, and I’ll “Notre Dame look that another team is giv- as a specialist against Boston College. game. The never forget that.” just brings a ing on Saturday because natu- first time lot of people rally we have some limita- I’m right around from that Irish. stepping off who are very tions, but we bring it as hard area where he’s from, and I “I just think being a walk-on that sideline Tom Burke similar togeth- as we can and we like to think think I get his attitude,” Burke especially is going to pay divi- actually onto senior linebacker er, who have that we compete pretty hard.” said. “Playing at Notre Dame dends in a lot of ways in the the field to good values More so than other football is kind of us against the future,” Burke said. “A lot of play a down and do well in programs, Notre Dame’s lega- world, and he understands times, you’re the low man on against an school, but cy commands the unwanted that. He’s always going about the totem pole and you have opposing team with the crowd also who like to have a good attention of critics and the for the team and for our play- to work just as hard and and the intensity of the game, time.” media that can bring a team ers and for the University, and harder than everyone else to it was really special, and I’ll A commitment to play foot- down before it even takes the I really respect that.” get noticed to earn that kind never forget that.” ball for the Irish is much more field. Burke says Irish coach With his football days num- of respect. The people who A 5-foot-10, 242-pound than just a season of practices Charlie Weis’ mentality, a bered, Burke says he will miss can survive as a walk-on have inside linebacker from New and Saturday afternoon mentality that he has come to running out of the tunnel and the attributes to be successful City, N.Y., Burke had the aspi- games. The relationships and adopt, keeps the team focused strapping on the gold helmet in whatever they want to do.” ration of suiting up for the community Burke has formed every week. every day. More importantly, Irish implanted at an early with his teammates will last “I’m from New York, but I he will never take for granted Contact Chris Masoud at age. After putting together longer than any achievement was born in New Jersey, so the opportunity to play for the [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 7

SAM YOUNG Stalwart tackle has started since week one, 2006

forget about it the next day and By MICHAEL BRYAN then go back to work.” Associate Sports Editor Young has come a long way from his freshman season, a Editor’s note: This article first year in which he said he relied appeared in the Sept. 18 edition heavily on his veteran team- of The Observer. mates. A consensus five-star recruit coming out of power- While the past four years house high school St. Thomas have been an up-and-down Aquinas in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., journey of wins, losses, success Young became the first true and failure, the one constant freshman to start a season on through every Notre Dame Notre Dame’s offensive line game has been offensive tackle since freshman became eligible Sam Young. in 1972. When he takes the field on “There were so many guys Saturday, Young will set the that helped me out, on the Notre Dame record for most offensive line my guy Ryan career starts by any player, Harris, Brady [Quinn], John with his 49 straight surpassing Sullivan and John Carlson, just former teammates Maurice a laundry list of guys,” Young Crum Jr. and Tom Zbikowski. said. He is the only offensive lineman Teaming with future NFL line- in the long and storied history men Harris, Dan Santucci and of Irish football to start every Sullivan, Young was named a IAN GAVLICK/The Observer game of his career. freshman All-American for his Senior offensive tackle Sam Young, middle, has started every game since Georgia Tech in 2006, “It’s been a lot of hard work part in protecting Quinn and his freshman year. Young is on pace to break the Irish record for career starts. and a little luck [starting 49 opening up holes for Darius straight],” Young Walker. Quinn things you learned from the put in a lot of hours and get third and long to give Jimmy said. “It’s really threw for more leaders to those younger guys better.” [Clausen] time. We have all the been a roller- than 3,000 yards now.” The offensive line certainly confidence in the world with coaster ride for “It’s really been a and Walker In Young’s sophomore year did improve in 2008, with Armando back there or any this senior class, rollercoaster ride for rushed for more the low points far outnumbered Young playing a large role. The running back and in Jimmy, it’s there’s been this senior class. than 1,000 in the highs, as the team and much-maligned unit allowed just our job to make it happen.” highs and lows their final sea- offensive line struggled only 22 sacks in Entering this and in-betweens. There’s been highs sons with the throughout a 0-5 start and 3-9 pass protection, season, a major It’s been crazy.” and lows and Irish. season. After graduating three although run change for He was there in-betweens. It’s been “I remember, seniors, the O-line gave up an blocking still “It’s gone fast. Young and the for the come- before that first NCAA high 58 sacks, including proved to be an offensive line backs against crazy.” game [at nine in the season opener issue. Freshman year was the addition Michigan State Georgia Tech in against Georgia Tech and at “As you play seemed like it took of coach Frank and UCLA in Sam Young 2006], I was Michigan. more and more, forever, and since Verducci to 2006, and there senior offensive tackle fully suited up The offensive line was at the the game slows replace John for every painful about ten min- center of the criticism for the down a lot,” then it’s just hit high Latina. Young game of 2007. utes after we got Irish, and Young said it was a Young said. “You gear and motored said he definite- He’s been a off the bus, I was tough learning experience. start seeing little along.” ly feels the line starter on a team that went to so anxious,” Young said. “You have to learn to push keys you never has made strides the Sugar Bowl, a team that “Looking back, it’s crazy to through adversity,” Young said. saw before, tons under Verducci’s finally broke the bowl losing think about where I was then “You’ve got to go when you lose of things you Sam Young tutelage and streak in Hawaii and a team and where I am now.” into the next week and regroup never noticed.” senior offensive tackle with new block- that tied for the worst record in The 6-foot-8 freshman started and stop the bleeding and keep Entering 2009 ing schemes. school history. every game of that 2006 cam- plugging it. No one likes to the Notre Dame “He’s a techni- So when it comes to the ups paign, experiencing comeback lose.” offensive line cian,” Young (like a blowout win over wins over the Bruins and Young said the performance had 100 career starts from its said of Verducci in the spring. Nevada) and downs (like heart- Spartans and disappointing of the team and offensive line returning unit, tied for the most “For me that’s a really good breaking losses to USC, blowouts to rivals Michigan and as a unit in 2007 served as a in the NCAA. Thirty-eight of thing because I think that’s Michigan or Navy) of a season, USC. Those experiences now huge point of motivation for those starts came from Young, something that I’ve been lack- there’s hardly anyone more help Young as he has gained 2008. who has been a leader on the ing is my technique. It’s some- prepared. more experience and his role “We had to work our rear deep and experienced unit. thing that I needed to work on. “After that kind of loss, you’re on the team has evolved. ends off in winter conditioning, “He obviously has so much It’s a different perspective. upset, and it’s OK to be upset, “You go from the student to in spring ball and in the sum- experience on the field, he’s There’s a lot of stuff he brings and sometimes a good thing,” now I’m the teacher,” Young mer to improve,” Young said. been around for so long,” soph- to the table that I haven’t heard Young said. “But you have to said. “You pass on those same “Everyone worked together to omore guard Trevor Robinson before and a lot of the guys on said. “He has a the line have really good abili- heard. It’s a dif- ty to gather ferent perspec- information “We as an offensive tive. It’s a differ- before the snap, line want the team to ent way of doing and the more be able to rely on us, things.” information you Young was have the more whether it’s that named to the you expect and short yardage play Outland Award less likely you where we have to get watch list in the are to be sur- offseason for the prised. He uses one yard or whether nation’s best that help me out, it’s holding up on offensive line- help Eric [Olsen] third and long to give man, and on and Kyle Saturday will [Rudolph].” Jimmy [Clausen] take the Notre The Irish have time.” Dame record for allowed 21 sacks most starts this season, but Sam Young made in a the emphasis senior offensive tackle career. and improve- The senior ment in run said he attrib- blocking has utes his streak been evident. Behind Young and of starting games and consis- the offensive line, Notre Dame’s tency to his attitude and running backs are each averag- approach to the game. ing close to or over five yards “The way I look at myself is I per carry, a dramatic improve- just try and be consistent day in ment from last season. and day out, whether that’s “I think we’ve gotten a lot bet- coming to work every day or ter, we’re getting close to where playing on Saturdays. It’s gone we want to be, but aren’t there fast. Freshman year seemed yet,” Young said. “We as an like it took forever, and since offensive line want the team to then it’s just hit high gear and be able to rely on us, whether motored along,” he said. VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer it’s that short yardage play Young has been the cornerstone of the Irish offensive line from Brady Quinn through Jimmy where we have to get one yard Contact Michael Bryan at Clausen, becoming the leader of a deep and experienced unit. or whether it’s holding up on [email protected] page 8 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

BARRY GALLUP, JR. Wide receiver starts own tradition on the field

fun. That game’s always circled By BILL BRINK on my calendar.” Sports Writer Barry Sr. didn’t push for his son to attend Boston College, Those F-18 Super Hornets instead leaving it up to him. that buzzed Notre Dame Gallup said he chose Notre Stadium before the Navy game Dame when he fell in love with can put nine times the force of the school during his official gravity on the pilots during visit. tight turns and loops. Intense, “Coach [Charlie] Weis, I knew right? Sort of. because he was with the [New Consider: the players on the England] Patriots [as offensive field below can generate up to coordinator from 2000-04] and 100 times the force of gravity I was a big Patriots fan,” Gallup when they hit and tackle each said. “It was a combination of other. The pinnacle of these those things and just the feeling hits, naturally, occurs on kickoff I got when I came here, it was coverages, when both units something I wanted to be a part sprint as fast as they can direct- of.” ly at one another. Upon arriving in South Bend, At the center of this mael- Gallup saw the truth behind strom is wide receiver and college football — never-ending return man Barry Gallup, 5- hard work. foot-11 and 190 pounds of “You don’t realize these guys speed and quickness. It’s OK, are working out 6 a.m. every though, because he’s got the day,” he said. “You come in the mentality for the job. summer, no one’s really on “It’s real violent out there,” campus, you’re working out in he said. “I’m a pretty violent the morning and going to class- QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer person so I don’t mind that.” es. It’s really a full-time job.” Senior wide receiver Barry Gallup, Jr., 21, ran a 52-yard kick return up the middle of the field Football isn’t the only violent The ends justify the running from the 3-yard line in the third quarter at Michigan. sport Gallup has played. and lifting and practice and Growing up in Wellesley, Mass., meetings, however. This season, an early injury to That return, and everything field and recovering from his he was a right wing in hockey, “I feel all the work is definite- fullback and return man James he’s done on the field this sea- ankle injury. He someday wants which he played year-round. ly worth it, to put on that hel- Aldridge gave Gallup a chance son, come from the hard work to own his own company and While similarities between a met and run through the tun- to return kickoffs. Against he’s done while at Notre Dame. said he could see himself going game played on grass and one nel,” he said. Michigan, he capitalized. After Even though the environment into the business side of sports. played on ice are rare, some Gallup didn’t see the field his Michigan threw a touchdown was originally not something he He stays in close touch with skills translate, Gallup said. freshman year, but played on pass to take a 24-20 lead in the was used to, he said he kept his mom, dad and sister, a con- “I feel like hockey requires a the special teams units in 2007. third quarter, Gallup caught the working for his chance. dition for him going to school lot of balance, and also you In 2008, despite missing four ball at the 3-yard line and took “I came from a school in far from home, and cherishes have to play tough to play hock- games because of an ankle off straight up the middle of the Massachusetts where they don’t the relationships he’s formed. ey,” he said. injury, he made 49 special- field for a 52-yard return. produce a lot of big-time foot- “You create so many special Gallup balanced playing hock- teams appearances. “I made a big play and I was ball players,” he said. “There bonds and we have so many ey, football and track at That injury hindered his hoping to spark a big come- weren’t any Brady Quinns or great guys on the team that I’m Belmont Hill H.S., but when it speed, which he called his back,” he said. “I can make Jeff Samardzijas at my high going to miss that,” he said. came time to pursue a sport in biggest asset. He worked out in people miss in space.” school. Mostly, he’ll remember the college he went with football — the offseason with the trainers Gallup has run back seven “It’s been a long time coming, final minutes before game time, and he went against the family. and strength coaches to build kickoffs this season and aver- a lot of long hours when you’re after he’s put in the work but His father, Barry Sr., played the speed back up. ages 22 yards per return. That thinking what am I getting out before he takes those stagger- football and basketball at Gallup plays with some fast 52-yard return is the longest of this? [But] I’ve always kept ing hits, when he runs out of Boston College and now is the guys, but he feels he should be for the Irish of the season and my nose to the grindstone.” the tunnel onto the field. director of football operations right up there. the longest since Armando Gallup graduated from Notre “It’s unbelievable every time there. “We got some fast guys but I’ll Allen ran a kickoff back 96 Dame in three years and was you run out there,” he said. “I “We definitely have some fun never concede that someone’s yards for a touchdown in Notre accepted to Notre Dame’s grad- never take it for granted.” conversations at the dinner faster than me,” he said. “I Dame’s 49-21 Hawaii Bowl vic- uate MBA program, but table,” Gallup said. “Obviously don’t know how many races tory over Hawaii on Dec. 24, deferred it for a year so he Contact Bill Brink at it’s a great rivalry. It’s a lot of I’ve lost but it’s not too many.” 2008. could focus on getting on the [email protected]

CHRIS STEWART Offensive guard enters with unique football perspective

out.” to bring in some American Studies By ERIC PRISTER After seeing the majority of his classes, so it ended up being pretty Sports Writer sophomore playing time on special cool. Taking Common Human teams, Stewart has started all but Diseases gave me my first glance Senior offensive guard Chris three games since the beginning of into Haiti and Caribbean society, Stewart has succeeded both on the his junior year — the three being so I wanted to learn the history field and off since he entered as a games he missed due to injury. and backdrop of all that, so that freshman in the spring of 2006. Despite his individual success, was the reason that I did it.” Stewart came to Notre Dame Stewart still has more he wants to The doors that were opened for with a unique football perspective. accomplish, both on and off the him at Notre Dame have also been He played high school football in field. a large part of Stewart’s off-the- Texas, which he said can be more “Football-wise, I’d like to go field experience, along with the scrutinizing than playing football undefeated and win a national ability to get to know people that under the Dome. championship,” Stewart said. “But he might not have otherwise got- “It’s a different culture coming I’ve gotten a lot of the experience ten a chance to meet. from Texas to Indiana for foot- out of it. Academically, I still want “I’ve enjoyed a lot of the people,” ball,” Stewart said. “It’s an something out of grad school, I Stewart said. “Notre Dame has upgrade, but I guess the society is guess that’s something that’s left some really down-to-earth people, different. Not that Notre Dame wanting. Other than that, I’ve had successful people but still-down-to fans aren’t die-hard, but it’s almost IAN GAVLICK/The Observer a pretty good experience with peo- earth. It’s not unusual to have like a cult following down south Senior offensive guard Chris Stewart found playing under the ple and everything like that. With friends from all over the U.S. and and in Texas. Little kids from the Dome a different atmosphere than the one he came from. football, you can always wish all over the world, being in the top age of four are indoctrinated into things had gone better, but hind- earning bracket in the U.S. and the cult of football and school. It’s was right on that,” Stewart said. and low of Irish football, and both sight’s 20/20.” still be down-to-earth, cool people. just a little bit different, and it’s “It was a mix of academics and of these experiences helped shape Stewart took advantage of the So, I’ve really enjoyed that part, hard to explain or pinpoint, it’s just football. I was able to have a his Notre Dame experience. academic opportunities offered by getting to know people from differ- the way things are done. Even tail- national spotlight, every week get “One of the best memories, even attending Notre Dame, majoring in ent backgrounds. And I’ve enjoyed gating, it’s just different.” to be on TV and get a chance to though the game didn’t go so well, history and international peace the educational side, getting to It was both athletics and aca- showcase talent in front of every- was going to New Orleans for the studies, and even creating his own know professors and counselors demics that drew Stewart to Notre one in the nation every week. It Sugar Bowl, to go back down history specialization — Caribbean and people like that. It’s been Dame from his hometown in lived up to my expectations. There south,” Stewart said. “And actually Studies. great. It’s been a really good expe- Spring, Texas, despite the change were some down times which a recent one was going to San “I kind of made [the Caribbean rience.” in climate that a move to Indiana were hard, but that happens, just Antonio. That was nice to get back Studies specialization] up,” would entail. like anything else in life.” down south. I’d say those two are Stewart said. “So I took a lot of Contact Eric Prister at “I expected it to be cold, and I Stewart has seen both the high the football memories that stick political science classes and I had [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 9

EVAN SHARPLEY Unexpected fifth year pays off for Sharpley

After that, it was back to whatever I would have to do, By SAM WERNER school to complete his educa- I would do,” Sharpley said. “I Associate Sports Editor tion degree and become, in wasn’t holding anything back. his own words, “the best- I wanted to see him do well if Usually the players that looking backup quarterback he was playing, and hopefully come back for fifth years at in college football.” likewise if I was playing he Notre Dame can be predicted “Adding depth at the quar- wanted me to do well.” well ahead of time. There terback position was great,” Sharpley said the highlight was one this year though, Sharpley said. “And plus I of his Notre Dame career that came out of left field. just love playing football and came earlier in the season, Well, actually first base. being competitive.” when he relieved Clausen Quarterback Evan Sharpley Even though it was five long against Purdue. gave the Irish a boost of years ago, Sharpley said he “My first touchdown pass unexpected depth at the could still look back and against Purdue was great, quarterback position this remember his recruitment to coming in and playing pretty summer when he announced Notre Dame in 2004. He said well then,” he said. that he would return for a that along with Notre Dame, On the season, Sharpley fin- fifth season. Sharpley, who he was also considering ished his junior year with 736 also plays first on the Irish Michigan, Purdue and LSU. passing yards with five touch- baseball team, returned to “I wanted to play both downs and three intercep- play football after being sports, and a lot of the places tions. drafted by the Seattle I was looking at they weren’t There was one play in Mariners in the 50th round of going to let me do that,” 2007, though, that Sharpley the 2009 Sharpley said. said summed up his up-and- Major League “A couple that down career at Notre Dame. Baseball draft. were like, “We were playing Boston “Initially, it “Initially, it was just to ‘Well, maybe,’ College,” he said. “And I was just to kind of cover my bases, but that’s came in the second half, kind of cover in case baseball didn’t really what it played pretty well, threw a my bases, just came down couple of touchdown passes.” in case base- work out.” to. I knew I The play was a fourth-and- ball didn’t was going to one from the Eagles’ 13-yard work out,” Evan Sharpley get a great line with the Irish trailing 27- Sharpley said Fifth-year quarterback degree. I 14. Sharpley said as he was of coming knew I was running out on the field, Irish back. “I didn’t going to play coach Charlie Weis called him have the baseball, I back and changed the play. greatest season I’ve ever had knew I was going to play “We go with a pop pass, and with baseball, but I still got football, and compete in both I throw a touchdown pass,” drafted.” sports.” Sharpley said. “It was one of IAN GAVLICK/The Observer Sharpley was drafted Sharpley saw little action the best feelings ever, then I Fifth-year quarterback Evan Sharpley provided the Irish a boost of 1,593rd overall, which he backing up Brady Quinn in look over and see a flag on depth at quarterback when he decided to come back this year. said caused mixed emotions. 2005 and 2006, but finally the field. Can I buy a break?” “It was kind of bittersweet,” got his shot in 2007. Irish tackle Mike Turkovich have,” Sharpley said. home to lesson plan or grade Sharpley said. “It’s still awe- The junior saw extensive had been called for holding In fact, when Sharpley was papers. some to get drafted, and I action both backing up then- and the Irish couldn’t convert running the scout team as “It’s been a great experi- wanted an opportunity. I’m freshman Jimmy Clausen and after being pushed back 10 third-string quarterback ear- ence,” Sharpley said. “It’s dif- still going to remember those starting games against USC yards. Notre Dame ended up lier this season, coaches ficult at times just because I 1,592 guys that got drafted in and Navy. The game against losing 27-14. often raved about how he ran am splitting time with both. front of me.” the Trojans was Sharpley’s Clausen seized the starting the opposing team’s offense Where I would maybe like to After being drafted, first career Notre Dame start. job in 2008 and hasn’t looked better than they did. do more with a certain sub- Sharpley played summer ball He said he had to walk a back. With the addition of “It’s a running joke between ject, I don’t have as much in Peoria, Ill. for the Seattle fine line that season, both Dayne Crist last season, coach [Jon] Tenuta and I time as the other student Mariners’ rookie league teaching Clausen and fighting Sharpley has taken on even when I’m running the other teachers to plan those team. for playing time himself. more of a teaching role for team’s offense, it’s, ‘Well, things.” “I had a great time, had a “At the same time you want the young quarterbacks. better than this guy again,’” Being a Division I football great summer playing sum- to see the team you’re play- “I’ve kind of always felt like Sharpley said. player, though, has taught mer,” he said. “It was really ing on and the program a teacher or a coach, just Sharpley’s teaching ability, Sharpley some useful skills. fun.” you’re in be successful, so with my knowledge that I though, stretches far beyond “Being here over the past the football field. Currently a four years has helped me student teacher at Adams with time management, High School in South Bend, knowing when I can do some- Sharpley is close to finishing thing, when I need to sleep, his degree in secondary edu- when I need to eat,” he said. cation from Saint Mary’s, in Sharpley said his plans addition to having a history after graduation are to try to degree from Notre Dame. give pro baseball a shot, but “I had to do some twisting that a teaching degree is a and I was on kind of a special good fallback plan. program because obviously a “My plans as of now are to football player had never go back in the spring for done this before, especially a spring training and play football/baseball-type guy,” great and try and make a he said. “So it was kind of name for myself,” he said. difficult, but ultimately I As for his time at Notre wanted to get that done now, Dame, though, Sharpley said so if I wanted to in the future it’s about more than just ath- I could be a teacher or coach, letics. which is what I want to do “I’ve tried to not just be eventually.” defined as a football player After he saw his first action or as a baseball player,” he of the season against said. “I have several different Washington State, Sharpley groups of friends outside of said he was greeted in class football, which I really think on Monday with cries of “Mr. is important because you Sharpley, why wouldn’t they don’t want to get termed as let you throw the ball?” an athlete because there’s Sharpley said his students kind of a negative connota- have become some of his tion with that.” biggest fans. Looking back, Sharpley said “They come in and each he couldn’t think of anything week it’s like ‘Can we sign a he would have done different- petition to coach Weis to let ly over the past four years. you play?’” Sharpley said. “I try not to live like that,” Sharpley teaches five class- he said. “Started dating my es at Adams, two senior gov- girlfriend earlier, I guess. ernment classes and three “It’s been a fun time so far, geography classes. He said and hopefully it finishes up that an average day starts at well, too.” QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer 6:30 a.m., with school until Sharpley, a first baseman on the Irish baseball team, was drafted in the 50th round of the 2009 2:30 p.m. and football until 8 Contact Sam Werner at Major League Baseball draft by the Seattle Mariners. p.m. After that, it’s back [email protected] page 10 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

SAM VOS Big-time experience inspired ‘Big Body’ walk-on

get on the field for the it real. Sometimes off the field By JARED JEDICK Connecticut game,” Vos said. we will go out to eat together, Sports Writer “I will take what I can get, but stuff like that.” I have hopes of getting in A result of these relation- For walk-on wide receiver there as a receiver.” ships with the receiving corps Sam Vos, his college football Beyond the rigors of playing and the walk-ons is his nick- experience has been all about football and practicing every- name, which refers to his personal growth and making day, it has taken a great deal stocky build. the most of what opportunities of effort to be able to balance “The other receivers thought he has gotten in life. Being class, football and having a I was a kind of a stocky dude, able to have the chance to be social life. so they started calling me ‘Big around a major college pro- “Day to day you are waking Body,’” Vos said. gram like Notre Dame has up in the morning and doing Vos said he loves it when the given Vos a deep sense of some kind of workouts,” Vos receivers get together because pride in what he is able to said. “Sometimes it is as early he believes they are all a accomplish. as six in the morning for bunch of fun-loving guys. “You hear the cliché that the workouts. That takes a couple “When you get the receiving speed of the game in college is hours and then we have class- crew together, they are a real so much different than it is in es until about two. After that bunch of clowns,” Vos said. high school,” Vos said. “And its meetings and practices for When asked what advice he now I really take pride in the a couple hours.” would give to a freshman try- fact of how far I have come All that work makes it hard ing to walk on to the team, Vos since I walked on. When I first to find time to socialize and responded that he would want started everything was going wind down, but Vos said he them to focus on the positive so fast, and now I can actually believes that it is important to side of things, not the hard compete with the guy I am lin- make that kind of time. work. ing up against.” “I don’t get to go out and “I would tell them to really As a member of the scout have as much fun with my look on the positive side,” Vos team offense and special friends, but you have to set said. “There are a lot of things teams unit since the spring of IAN GAVLICK/The Observer aside some time away from that can get you down when his freshman year, nothing has Walk-on senior receiver Sam Vos has never seen playing time in school and football,” Vos said. you aren’t playing and you come easily for Vos, but noth- a game, but he still hopes to get on the field this season. “I have been able to fit it in.” aren’t traveling. You really ing means more for him about Vos has formed some impor- have to look at the big picture his walk-on experience than to Coach Weis is work ethic and high school and just being tant friendships in his time at and your whole college experi- be a part of team with big- time management,” Vos said. introduced to football.” Notre Dame, including his fel- ence.” time players and big-name “Those two things will defi- Football was also a big part low receivers and walk-ons. But Vos said what he has coaches. nitely be useful going for- of his life in high school, as he “All of the receivers are gotten out of his experience, “Probably the greatest part ward.” went to Catholic Central in really tight. My other clique is from being with the players on of my football experience is Vos grew up in the small Burlington, Wis., where he the walk-ons,” Vos said. “It is this team and the coaches that just being able to be a part of town of Burlington, Wis., with learned a lot about football really a unique experience of have taught him, is that you this team and be around all his mom and dad and two and life from coach Tom what we all went through with have to make the most out of these guys,” Vos said. “I am a younger brothers, and that Aldrich. the tryouts and what we go every opportunity you are walk-on, I wasn’t really family experience has pre- “It was just the way he cre- through every day.” given. recruited by anyone coming pared him for his future life, ated a winning program and One of Vos’ closest friends is “The most valuable thing for out of high school, so I took a both as a man and as a foot- taught us life lessons,” Vos fellow walk-on and fullback the rest of my life is that you shot at making this team, and ball player. said. “He used football as a Mike Narvaez, as they have get limited opportunities and once I made it, being around “My mom and dad come to a tool to teach us things we gone through this journey of you have to make the most of these types of players is spe- lot of games and are really could use the rest of our being a walk-on together. every opportunity that you cial.” supportive of me, they have lives.” “With me and Mikey, the ever get,” Vos said. “Seize Vos also puts a lot of stock in taught me how to be the man I Coming to Notre Dame and reason we are friends is things as they come and make having played under coach am today,” Vos said. “My walking on to the football because we walked on at the the most of them.” Charlie Weis, as he has taught younger brother Max got a team has been tough for Vos, same time, and we have been Vos has been the living him life lessons that he will scholarship to Northern as he has not yet gotten onto through the whole process embodiment of this motto for carry with him for the rest of Michigan after leading our the field during a regular together,” Vos said. “As walk- his entire Notre Dame career. his life. high school to the state cham- game. ons we are not always getting “Two big things I have got- pionship, and my youngest “I have not made it onto the the special treatment, so we Contact Jared Jedick at ten out of my relationship with brother Mitch is a freshman in field yet, but hopefully I will joke around together and keep [email protected]

RAY HERRING Video game addict only plays himself on field

exciting time. Maybe it was plays backup to fifth-year sen- By LAURA MYERS because it was my freshman ior strong safety Kyle Sports Writer year, but I was amazed.” McCarthy. In 2006, Herring played all Herring said he doesn’t pre- Ray Herring spends much 13 games, again mostly on spe- fer one position over the other. more than 20 hours a week on cial teams but starting as “Special teams is fun because football-related activities. But strong safety against Stanford that’s where I started off,” he don’t call the authorities, when Tom Zbikowski went out said. “I’ve been doing it my because he’s not always play- with an injury. He recorded 18 whole career. ing himself. tackles that season, which he “It doesn’t really matter, as “I like to play video games, said was his favorite year. long as I get a chance to help NCAA,” Herring said. “I try to “It was my first time actually the team win.” avoid [playing myself]. I feel getting a chance to play Herring was always ready to like that’s kind of weird. I play Division I college football,” help Notre Dame win — though other people, friends of mine Herring said. “I was just hav- he was recruited by teams who are at other colleges.” ing fun. That’s the only way to such as Georgia Tech and When he plays the video play, having fun.” Tennessee, he said he always game, Herring said, Notre Herring fell to a groin injury wanted to play for the Irish. Dame “usually” wins. four games into the 2007 sea- “I was happy when I got this In real life, though, the fifth- son and was sidelined for the offer,” he said. “It’s Notre year safety has been around rest of the year. In his few Dame. Who doesn’t want to for both ups and downs. appearances he made three come here? The degree, the Herring was recruited out of tackles and two fumble recov- people, the atmosphere, the Melbourne, Fla., and began his eries. football aspect, being on NBC career in 2005. He played eight He returned his senior year every Saturday. If you’re away games that year, mostly on and was granted a medical from home, people can still see special teams. He said his redshirt that allowed him to you play.” QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer favorite memory of college come back for a fifth season as Five years later, Herring said Senior strong safety Ray Herring has seen consistent action in football was the 2005 game well. Since coming back he has he is glad he came to Notre his Irish career, playing in every game the past two seasons. against USC in which the Irish not missed a game, playing all Dame and had a lot of fun both lost at the last second. 13 in 2008 and all nine so far on and off the field. He will you’re looking at the next trying to avoid playing himself “I know we lost, but it was a this year. miss his Irish teammates, but step,” he said. “I’ll try out for in the NFL video game. good game,” he said. “I think In 2009, he has recorded hopes to continue playing foot- the next level on pro day I’m the only one left who eight tackles on special teams ball. here.” Contact Laura Myers at played in that game. It was an and one punt return. He also “This is the part where Maybe next year he will be [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 11

KYLE MCCARTHY McCarthy stands apart as defensive leader

need of a big play, it seems By MATT GAMBER like McCarthy’s been there, Sports Editor with game-clinching intercep- tions in wins against Michigan Editor’s note: This article State and Boston College con- first appeared in the Nov. 13 tributing to his total of five edition of The Observer. picks for the year. Often the last line of On a Notre Dame defense, defense, McCarthy leads the and particularly in a second- Irish in solo (44) and total ary, that has shuffled on an (72) tackles this season, and it almost weekly basis in 2009, isn’t close. Junior linebacker one piece of the puzzle has Brian Smith places second in remained intact. both categories with 28 and And does it come as a sur- 51, respectively. prise to anyone that that And as the captain and piece is free safety Kyle unquestioned leader of the McCarthy? Notre Dame defense, it’s “It’s been very important [to McCarthy who is often have him back there],” Irish responsible for making defen- defensive backs coach Corwin sive calls and arranging his Brown said. “I think what he’s teammates in accordance done more than anything else with offensive formations and is be able to keep the guys audibles. fairly settled, no matter who “He makes a lot of calls. has been in there with him.” He’s really football smart,” Ironically — or appropriate- senior defensive back Darrin ly — enough, the same could Walls said. “That’s one thing be said about McCarthy’s role that we need out there. He IAN GAVLICK/The Observer in his off-campus home last directs people, tells them Senior safety Kyle McCarthy, 28, captain and defensive leader, has grown into his role on the year, when he lived with three where to go and how to line team as a “lead-by-example” type of player. of his teammates, including up. When you have a guy like current fifth-year tackle Paul that who you can trust, that’s Duncan. In an Oct. 19, 2008, always good.” been around long enough to craziness of his house last Bouncing back Irish Insider cover story, McCarthy’s persistence in see just about everything, year, Kyle opted for a more After Notre Dame’s 23-21 McCarthy called himself “the having to wait until 2008 to from back-to-back BCS berths quiet alternative this year, he loss to Navy, the second dad” of the house, where it earn a full-time starting spot to the worst two-year run in said. straight at home to the was his job to keep his team- make him a good example for school history. “I’m living with my older Midshipmen, the Irish season mates in line. younger players to follow as McCarthy has even been brother, who’s also a grad stu- reaches a crossroads at It’s not a perfect analogy — well, Walls said. long around long enough to dent,” Kyle said, referring to Pittsburgh Saturday. And with no analogy is — but “I think the whole process play two seasons with his his brother Brian, 2006 Notre big-picture questions abound- McCarthy’s role on the for him, coming here behind younger brother, Dan, who as Dame graduate. “It’s definite- ing about the state of the defense has been comparable [former Irish standout and a sophomore has climbed the ly been a lot more laid-back. Notre Dame program five this season. current Baltimore Ravens depth chart to become his It’s been great.” years into the Charlie Weis “He understands the bigger safety Tom Zbikowski] and older brother’s backup. era, one might think picture better, and he’s taken then finally having the chance Looking at their resumes com- Growing as a leader McCarthy and his fellow cap- on more of a leadership role,” to play and making the best of ing out of Cardinal Mooney Following in the footsteps of tains would have a tough time Brown said. “He’s the older it — that’s the kind of guy you H.S. in Youngstown, Ohio, it’d NFL-caliber safeties like keeping their team focused on guy back there, and he under- want leading your team,” be hard to tell the McCarthy Zbikowski and David Bruton, a talented Panthers team. stands where he’s at.” Walls said. brothers apart. a Denver Broncos draft pick That’s not the case, Both were two-way stand- last season, McCarthy has McCarthy said. Old Reliable Family affair outs that won state titles as improved not only as a player, “It has zero effect on how Whenever the Irish have Like any of his fellow fifth- quarterbacks and also posted but as the leader of the we go about doing things,” struggled and have been in year seniors, McCarthy has gaudy statistics at defensive defense — a M c C a r t h y back while gaining state and particularly said. “That’s national recognition for their i m p o r t a n t all going out- individual efforts. trait because side the lock- After earning all-confer- of his role as “He (McCarthy) directs er room. ences honors as a junior wide a veteran people, tells them where to Inside the receiver, Kyle became the and his posi- locker room, team’s starting quarterback tion in the go and how to line up. there’s no as a senior in 2004. McCarthy d e f e n s i v e When you have a guy like questions or passed for 557 yards and five backfield. that who you can trust, anything like touchdowns and rushed for “ K y l e ’ s that. We just 1,273 yards and 14 touch- grown to be that’s always good.” go out and downs on just 135 carries to a great play- p r e p a r e earn all-state recognition. As er and a Darrin Walls e v e r y d a y a defensive back, he recorded great leader, Senior defensive back with trust in 70 tackles and made five and our the guys in interceptions, returning two p l a y e r s this locker for scores — including a notice that,” room and record-setting 93-yard pick- Walls said. trust in the six in the state title game to “He’s taken c o a c h i n g earn the game’s MVP award. control in the weight room, in staff, and we’re excited to McCarthy also displayed his the locker room, and when play Pitt on Saturday.” supreme athletic ability on you have a guy like that you Weis declared after the the baseball diamond, where can depend on, it really helps Navy loss that the theme he set a school-record with 20 the team.” would be “accountability,” stolen bases as a senior and Walls said McCarthy is more and McCarthy said after Navy also posted seven wins and a of a “lead-by-example” type that early in the week — sub-4.00 earned run average. but knows the right time to beginning Monday, when the As for younger brother Dan? step up and address the team. players have the day off but it He was the Gatorade Player of “He doesn’t always speak was reported a larger number the Year as a senior in 2007, much, but when he does than usual came in to work and a finalist for the presti- speak, people listen to him,” out and watch extra film — gious Mr. Football award in Walls said. “They do what he the returns were positive. Ohio, earning second-team All tells them to do. He leads by “As far as preparation and America honors from USA example and everyone follows prepping for the game, our Today, according to und.com. behind him.” guys need to be accountable He rushed for over 3,000 Brown said the type of per- for the job at hand,” McCarthy yards and 36 touchdowns in son McCarthy is makes him a said. “The coaches are going two seasons at quarterback good leader. to put us in the position to while posting 249 tackles and “Kyle is a classy dude, and I make plays, but it’s up to the 16 sacks in his final two years think the best thing about players to go out and execute on defense. Kyle is he’s not selfish,” and make plays. Last week we “It’s been great playing with Brown said. “He’s trying to struggled a little bit, so we him. He’s a real good player,” help out others. I believe just need to maybe prepare a Kyle said of his brother. “The when you put others first, little harder, pay attention to guys on the team all think when it’s not always about detail, and hopefully get it he’s their little brother, too.” you, everybody else appreci- corrected this Saturday.” IAN GAVLICK/The Observer But Dan isn’t the only broth- ates that … That’s why he’s McCarthy is often responsible for arranging his teammates on er Kyle sees on a daily basis played the way he’s played Contact Matt Gamber at the field and making defensive calls. at Notre Dame. After the this year.” [email protected] page 12 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

JOHN RYAN Brothers, parents inspired Ryan to lead by example

Ryan sees his role as the here,” Ryan said. “It is a By JARED JEDICK oldest brother in his family as Catholic university, a strong Sports Writer one that comes with impor- football program with a great tant responsibilities, not the tradition. I think going to The most important part of least of which is working to Ignatius had a big part in my defensive end John Ryan’s provide opportunities and coming here.” Notre Dame football experi- inspiration to his younger Ryan said he still remem- ence has been the opportuni- brothers. bers being recruited by head ty to be a part of something “The role of being the older coach Charlie Weis. greater than himself and a brother has always inspired “The whole process was part of a meaningful tradi- me to work harder to achieve kind of a whirl-wind,” Ryan tion. things to give to them, to be said. “I had to pinch myself “I think just a big thing for the person they look up to,” every morning because I was me is just being a part of the Ryan said. “I want to set the deciding to come to Notre Notre Dame family,” Ryan standard and be a role model Dame. I don’t regret it at all said. “I like being a part of for them.” because it was one of the best the whole community, kind of Another great inspiration decisions of my life.” just being a part of something for Ryan has been his par- The experience of being special, with all the tradition ents. recruited to Notre Dame, and and the pregame rituals.” “In terms of my parents, the family-oriented and at- Having spent four years they are biggest reason why I home feeling that Weis gave here, Ryan feels that he has am the person I am today, off is what really made the been able to become a part of from morals to work ethic,” process special for Ryan. that tradition, Ryan said. “The whole thing was sur- something he “They have real,” Ryan said. “Opening up feels very “Every game you hit the been there the mailbox and seeing three honored and same sign as Jerome through the letters from Notre Dame, get- humbled by. ups and ting my one phone call every “Yeah, I def- Betis, you walk out of downs, and month, and having him come initely feel the tunnel and you see they have make his visit to my house, it like I am part the band and the fans.” always been a was wild. It was something of the tradi- great asset to that was obviously a once-in- tion,” Ryan me.” a-lifetime experience.” said. “Every John Ryan Ryan said Ryan’s emphasis on sticking game you hit senior defensive end his biggest together through thick and the same sign hero in life is thin fortified him for a roller- as Jerome his father, coaster ride of college foot- Bettis, you walk out of the Kevin, who has played the ball career, from the highs of tunnel and you see the band same type of role model for a BCS game to the lows of a and the fans.” him that he said he hopes to 3-9 season. VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer That kind of love of family play for his younger brothers. He said he has no regrets Senior defensive end John Ryan first saw playing time his and tradition is something “My biggest hero is proba- about coming to play at Notre freshman season, and has provided depth every season since. that’s been a cornerstone for bly my dad, just because he Dame. Ryan’s entire life — not just has really taught me to be the “In terms of regrets, that is field, freshman year in the more well-rounded in terms at Notre Dame. man that I am,” Ryan said. just how the game goes, you win at home against Penn of my knowledge,” Ryan said. Ryan is the oldest brother “He has really been an unbe- play a game with a ball with State, 41-17. “When you put an emphasis of three. He said it’s his two lievable role model, in terms edges, and you don’t always “It was unbelievable,” Ryan on studying the game, it real- younger brothers that inspire of carrying yourself with know which way the ball is said. “The whole game I was ly helps out.” him to work hard every day. class and how to act in the going to bounce,” Ryan said. waiting to go in there, the Some of Ryan’s best friends “My brothers are definitely classroom and on the field.” “I can’t regret anything. I game was close, we were on the football team have the inspiration of my life,” This heavy reliance upon don’t regret coming here for winning by a lot, but not been wide receiver Robby Ryan said of Patrick, a sopho- the importance of family was a second. Some might look at quite enough for my to go in, Parris, safety Kyle McCarthy more at Georgetown, and what first led him to St. it as a low point, but it’s all a but when [former defensive and nose tackle Paddy Michael, a sophomore at St. Ignatius High School, and matter of perspective. In back Tom] Zbikowski picked Mullen, who have all spent a Ignatius High School in then onwards into Notre terms of maturity and togeth- up a fumble and ran it in, lot of time together. Cleveland, Ryan’s alma Dame. erness and work ethic I do they said, alright, you are “With Robby, we can sit and mater. “I think, obviously, where I not regret anything.” going in.” stare at blank walls and have “They have definitely been went to high school played a Ryan still remembers well Once Ryan got in, he was fun. In terms of Kyle it is the a huge impact on my life.” big part in my choice to come the first time he got on the nervous, but after that every- same way. Whatever we do thing settled down for him. we are going to have fun,” “Once I got out there, the Ryan said. first play, I felt butterflies, Outside of practice and but once the ball was school, Ryan only has a few snapped that all went away,” needs, which involve resting Ryan said. and hanging out with his Ryan said the coaching staff friends. has also had a big impact on “I like sleeping,” Ryan said. his time at Notre Dame, from “Because that is one thing I Weis to defensive coordinator can definitely say I have not Jon Tenuta and first-year gotten enough of since I have defensive line coach Randy been here. I enjoy sleep and Hart. playing a good round of golf “One of the biggest things with my buddies.” [Coach Weis] has taught me is Beyond college, Ryan is not dedication, that if you are sure what direction he wants going to do something you to take his life, but he plans have to put your whole heart to have that figured out as into it,” Ryan said. “If you soon as possible. want to succeed in life, it “I really don’t know what I really begins with your work want to do,” Ryan said. “I ethic, and putting everything really haven’t even sat down you have into your work.” to figure it out yet. I am only Beyond work ethic, his rela- taking a couple credits next tionships with Tenuta and semester, so hopefully I will Hart have taught him to love have plenty of time to figure the game of football. everything out.” “Coach Tenuta has been a Ryan’s biggest message is huge influence as well, along that he wants to have people with coach Hart,” Ryan said. know that he did things the “When they came here they right way and has always really turned my outlook on tried to be good to everyone. football around, they put a “I always want to be nice to positive spin on it. You could people. I want to be good to really tell that they care people,” Ryan said. “I just about their players and how have tried to do things the they do.” right way, good or bad I want Ryan said he believes the to leave with no regrets and biggest way in which he has do things the right way on grown as a player while he and off the field.” PHIL HUDELSON/The Observer has been at Notre Dame is in Ryan came to Notre Dame in 2006 after Irish coach Charlie Weis recruited him out of St. his knowledge of the game. Contact Jared Jedick at Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Ryan said the recruiting process was surreal. “I have obviously become [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 13

KALLEN WADE Cincinnati native learns new defensive positions

able to separate home life By BARRICK BOLLMAN from school.” Wade said. Sports Writer “Also, Notre Dame offered the best of both worlds when it While he might not be as came to athletics and academ- well known as some of his ics. other Fighting Irish team- Wade has spent most of his mates, senior Kallen Wade has Notre Dame career at either been just as important of a defensive end or outside line- contributor. The 6-foot-5, 250- backer, changing positions as pound hybrid defensive end the Irish switched between the and outside linebacker hails 3-4 and 4-3 defensive fronts. from Cincinnati, Ohio. In his “It was a little awkward at prep career, Wade started at first because I never played safety before moving to defen- linebacker before, but I played sive end and defensive tackle. sort of defensive end and out- While in high school, Wade side linebacker at the same was selected to participate in time,” Wade said about his the prestigious Big 33 position switch. “I was able to Ohio/Pennsylvania All-Star adapt to being in coverage Game, which counts NFL more because of what I did as greats like Joe a sophomore in Montana, Jim high school at Kelly, Ben safety. Roethlisberger “I feel like this has After redshirt- IAN GAVLICK/The Observer and Marvin been the most we’ve ing his freshman Senior defensive end Kallen Wade has played many different roles during his Irish career. He Harrison as year, Wade saw currently plays on the scout team. alumni. Wade ever clicked as a his first playing became the team.” time against Wade said. “Basically, I try to While Wade has many “The whole unity of the team fourth recruit Georgia Tech in mimic whatever team we are favorite Notre Dame moments, is great,” he said. “I feel like in Irish coach Kallen Wade 2007. Since then, about to play that week and go he considers the 2009 season this has been the most we’ve Charlie Weis’ he has played in as hard as I can to try and as a whole the best part of his ever clicked as a team.” first full senior defensive end reserve roles and make them a better player and career. Even though football is a r e c r u i t i n g on special teams. have the best preparation they “It has been remarkable how huge time constraint, Kallen class. While his action can get.” we have come back from applies himself in the class- Wade chose may be limited Wade suffered a fracture-dis- where we were two seasons room as well. He is a double Notre Dame for its location in on the field, Wade has made location of his ankle during his ago to be the team we are major in psychology and com- relation to Cincinnati. an impact on the practice field, junior year that required four today,” he said. “It’s great to puter applications. In the “My mother had health prob- preparing the front line play- months of recovery. Through a be part of it.” spring semester of 2008, he lems, so I wanted to be close ers for the week’s games. persistent effort in the recov- Another one of Wade’s carried a 3.33 GPA. enough to home so I could get “My main role is to show a ery process, he was able to favorite parts of his Notre back if anything happened, but look for the starters, like Sam participate in the spring game Dame experience has been the Contact Barrick Bollman at also far enough away to be Young and Paul Duncan,” ahead of schedule. camaraderie of the team. [email protected] page 14 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009 Notre Dame Fighting Irish Record: 6-4 HEAD TO AP: NR Coaches: NR BCS: NR 5th season at Irish Offense vs. Huskies Defense Notre Dame

career record: 35-25 at home: 19-13 Charlie Weis against Big East: head coach 2-3

Jon Tenuta Corwin Brown Def. Coordinator Co-Def. Coord. Assistant HC Associate HC 2009 Schedule Sept. 5 Nevada — W Sept. 12 @ Michigan — L Sept. 19 Michigan St. — W Sept. 26 @ Purdue — W Oct. 3 Washington — W Oct. 17 Southern Cal — L Oct. 24 Boston College — W Oct. 31 Washington St. — W Nov. 7 Navy — L Consecutive losses have bursted Irish history to each record three and deliver from the pocket. Defensive Nov. 14 @ Pittsburgh — L Jimmy Clausen’s Heisman Trophy straight 100-yard receiving games. end Lindsey Witten’s 10.5 sacks, howev- bubble, but there is no denying the The Huskies secondary is statistically er, are some cause for concern. Nov. 21 Connecticut junior gunslinger remains one of mediocre and, like most teams on the Still, though, the Notre Dame aerial Nov. 28 @ Stanford the top passers in the country. For Irish schedule, Connecticut cannot attack has been curiously quiet early in the third consecutive week, match Notre Dame’s talent at the skill games recently, so it will be interesting Clausen will have both of his top positions. The Irish offensive line should to see whether Charlie Weis opts to fire receivers — Golden Tate and have better luck than it did against early or if he’ll repeat last week’s con- Head-to-Head Michael Floyd — in action, as the Pittsburgh, which should bode well for servative start. pair will try to become the first in Clausen and the time he’ll have to stand EDGE: NOTRE DAME ND OFFENSE UCONN DEFENSE PASSING IRISH Scoring: 29.30 ppg (46th) Scoring: 23.56 ppg (58th) Total: 452.20 (9th) Total: 366.11 ypg (68th) Rushing: 130.90 (84th) Rushing: 134.00 ypg (52nd) Armando Allen returned from forced to abandon it as his team fell been the biggest roadblock standing in Passing: 321.30 ypg (5th) Passing: 232.11 ypg (76th) injury last week and showed why the behind three scores in the second half. the way of the Irish ground game’s suc- Turnovers against: 11 (14th) Turnovers for: 18 (56th) Irish ground game missed him so At defensive end opposite Witten is cess. With Allen, Robert Hughes and Theo Fumbles lost: 6 (20th) Fumbles rec.: 7 (69th) much, as the junior showed speed freshman Jesse Joseph, who at 238 Riddick, Notre Dame has a trio of talented Interceptions: 5 (16th) Interceptions: 11 (36th) and power, albeit with limited oppor- pounds could be a target for a power run backs who have shown glimpses of explo- Sacks Allowed: 21 (69th) Sacks: 23(30th) tunities (14 carries, 77 yards). Draw game — though Weis did praise his ath- siveness but generally haven’t received T.O.P. for: 32:30 (11th) T.O.P. against: 30:41 (77th) plays were especially effective letic ability. The Huskies linebackers are enough carries to take over a game. The against the aggressive Pittsburgh experienced, led by junior strongside game plan will likely once again dictate front. Weis tried to establish the run- backer Scott Lutrus. Notre Dame’s success running the ball. ning game early but said he was Arguably, a lack of commitment has EDGE: NOTRE DAME Statistical Leaders RUSHING IRISH

ND OFFENSE UCONN DEFENSE QB JIMMY CLAUSEN LAWRENCE WILSON The good: David Ruffer Weis said Tuesday the punt- Weis said the circumstances spark early in the form 236-350, 3,053 yds., 21 TD 55 solo, 9 TFL, 3 sacks made his first career ing job would be wide open of a hostile night game on the of an aggressive passing IRISH OFFENSIVE

RB ARMANDO ALLEN GREG LLOYD field goal and Tate between Maust and Ben Turk, road dictated his conservative game downfield. The COACHING 118 rush, 591 yds., 3 TD 47 solo, 3 TFL, 1 sack returned is first career and it was unknown whether game plan against Pittsburgh. Irish are most successful RB ROBERT HUGHES LINDSEY WITTEN touchdown for a score the injured Nick Tausch could The Irish will be in the oppo- when they achieve a 71 rush, 342 yds., 5 TD 20 solo, 11 TFL, 10.5 sacks last week. The bad: resume his normal placekick- site situation Saturday on pass-run balance, but WR GOLDEN TATE ROBERT VAUGHN Ruffer had an extra point ing duties. With this unit, Senior Day. After two straight that has been rare of 74 rec., 1,172 yds., 11 TD 20 solo, 2 TFL, 4 INT blocked and Eric Maust there’s just too much inconsis- losses, and with the memory of late. Weis needs to just WR MICHAEL FLOYD ROBERT MCCLAIN averaged just 24.8 yards tency to forecast. last year’s Syracuse loss still let his team execute.

30 rec., 606 yds., 6 TD 32 solo, 3.5 TFL, 4 INT on his five punts. EDGE: EVEN fresh, this team could use a EDGE: EVEN IRISH SPECIAL TEAMS

I don’t believe determination, senior day I think it’s going to take another fourth- excitement or the hope of hearing the Victory quarter comeback for the Irish to beat Clog one last time will factor into Saturday’s Connecticut, but I think this week they pull result. Notre Dame needs preparation and exe- it off. Notre Dame hasn’t looked prepared cution, two things it hasn’t had in recent and had a strong first quarter in weeks, weeks. Preparation to utilize its weapons and and there’s no reason to think it will hap- execution to slow a talented UConn run game. pen again this week. This game should be a Notre Dame has shown itself to be a team that lot like the Boston College game, with the wins ugly. The Irish will win this one ugly too. defense selling out against the run and Bill Brink They’ll get run on, the offense will splutter and Michael Bryan forcing Zach Frazer to beat them in his the run game will be under-utilized, but the return to Notre Dame. The Irish defense Managing Irish have too much talent not to click. Golden’s Associate will give up some big plays, but Clausen Editor a known commodity. Michael Floyd, Armando Sports Editor and Tate will come up with some highlights Allen and Theo Riddick make the difference in of their own at the end. It will be another this game and the seniors chow down on left- ugly game, but the Irish are too talented to over marshmallows as they celebrate one last win (barely). play to play two bad halves against the Huskies. FINAL SCORE: Notre Dame 16, Connecticut 13 FINAL SCORE: Notre Dame 28, Connecticut 24 Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 15 Connecticut Huskies HEAD TO HEAD Record: 4-5, 1-4 Big East AP: NR Coaches: NR BCS: NR Huskies Offense vs. Irish Defense 11th season at Connecticut

career record: 62-65 at the FBS level: Randy Edsall 53-41 head coach

Joe Moorhead Todd Orlando Off. Coordinator Def. Coordinator 2009 Schedule Sept. 5 @ Ohio — W Sept. 12 North Carolina — L Sept. 19 @ Baylor — W Sept. 26 Rhode Island — W Oct. 10 @ Pittsburgh — L Oct. 17 Louisville — W Oct. 24 @ West Virginia — L Oct. 31 Rutgers — L Nov. 7 @ Cincinnati — L Former Irish quarterback Zach Frazer Connecticut’s receivers aren’t blessed tainly has the talent to do just that. UCONN PASSING Nov. 21 @ Notre Dame has regained the starting spot he previous- with nearly the size of Pittsburgh’s, though Pressure will ultimately be the key, ly lost to Cody Endres, and there’s no the Huskies do have some playmakers. and a lack of a pass rush doomed the Nov. 28 Syracuse doubt he’ll be motivated to beat the team How much the Huskies throw will likely be Irish defense against Pittsburgh. Dec. 5 South Florida he signed with out of high school. Frazer determined by the success (or potential Notre Dame will probably surrender has a big arm but has thrown seven inter- lack thereof) of its ground game, which yardage, but if it can create ceptions compared to four touchdowns, has certainly been its strength this year. turnovers, a la the Boston College vic- and if the Irish can generate pressure, Still, Notre Dame has tended to make tory, it should be able to thwart the they should be able to force Frazer into average quarterbacks look like All- Huskies passing attack. Head-to-Head bad decisions. Americans this season, and Frazer cer- EDGE: EVEN UCONN OFFENSE ND DEFENSE Scoring: 29.67 ppg (42nd) Scoring: 23.30 (50th)

Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon have tests, both went over the century mark. up the big play, particularly on the UCONN RUSHING Total: 408.89 ypg (38th) Total: 390.50 ypg (83rd) received almost an identical number of Weis said Tuesday “they’re interchange- ground. The Irish suffered a pair of Rushing: 167.89 ypg (45th) Rushing: 153.20 ypg (72nd) carries this season, and each has had able.” highlight-reel, 50-plus-yard runs Passing: 241.00 (39th) Passing: 237.30 ypg (85th) games in which he was the feature back. The Huskies are big up front, with four against the Panthers that ruined an Turnovers against: 19 (69th) Turnovers for: 17 (62nd) It was Todman’s turn last week, as he of its five linemen weighing in at more otherwise solid defensive effort. If Fumbles lost: 8 (49th) Fumbles rec.: 6 (91st) rushed for 162 yards and four touch- than 315 pounds. That will be a chal- the Huskies are going to hand Notre Interceptions: 11 (71st) Interceptions: 11 (36th) downs on 26 carries in a near-upset of lenge for the Irish front, which played Dame its second straight Senior Day Sacks Allowed: 19 (70th) Sacks: 18 (68th) No. 5 Cincinnati. Todman has three 100- reasonably well against Pittsburgh’s tal- loss, it will be because it dominated T.O.P. for: 29:19 (77th) T.O.P. against: 27:30 (11th) yard games this season, and Dixon has ented rushing attack. But the Notre on the ground. posted four of his own — and in two con- Dame defense will have to avoid giving EDGE: CONNECTICUT Statistical Leaders

UCONN OFFENSE ND DEFENSE Dave Teggart is 9-for- “hidden yardage” on kick Joe Moorhead’s offense blitzes, particularly UCONN 16 on field goals, includ- and punt returns.Robbie relies on the run, and with a after seeing some of QB CODY ENDRES SS KYLE MCCARTHY 98-154, 1,354 yds., 6 TD 47 solo, 2 TFL, 5 INT ing 7-for-10 from within Frey averages 29.5 yards quarterback who might be a Pittsburgh’s big plays COACHING 40 yards. Desi Cullen has per kick return and has bit over-excited for his return last Saturday. Notre QB ZACH FRAZER LB BRIAN SMITH dropped 18 of his 43 taken one to the house, and to Notre Dame Stadium, he’ll Dame’s defensive per- OFFENSIVE 62-121, 815 yds., 4 TD 30 solo, 5.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks punts inside the 20-yard Robert McClain averages 15 almost surely lean on the formance will, as RB JORDAN TODMAN LB HARRISON SMITH

line and averages 43.8 yards per punt return and ground game, at least early. always, come down to 159 rush, 826 yds., 12 TD 33 solo, 5.5 TFL PCA TEAMS SPECIAL yards per kick. has also returned one for a Rushing success and Frazer’s tackling — which is RB ANDRE DIXON LB DARIUS FLEMING Weis noted Tuesday touchdown. strong arm could cause Jon always a concern. 158 rush, 730 yds., 7 TD 19 solo, 11.5 TFL, 3 sacks that the Huskies gain EDGE: CONNECTICUT Tenuta to scale back his EDGE: CONNECTICUT WR MARCUS EASLEY DE K. LEWIS-MOORE

UCONN 26 rec., 559 yds., 5 TD 24 solo, 7 TFL, 2.5 sacks

In two weeks, it’s gone from hard to predict Given the recent history of both these a blowout Irish victory to hard to predict any teams, this game should be a high-scoring Irish victory. It was no secret all year that one. Notre Dame will be challenged to stop Notre Dame was a flawed team, but since the Connecticut’s two-headed rushing attack of Navy loss, it seems like those flaws have been Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon. exposed at an incredible rate. That being Fortunately, Notre Dame should be able to sell said, I think the last two weeks serve as a out and stop the run, daring former Irish wake-up call for a tightly-knit Irish team that quarterback Zach Frazer to beat them with wants to send its seniors out on a high note. his arm. Even though the Notre Dame second- Matt Gamber Notre Dame won’t play a perfect game, and Sam Werner ary has struggled this season, Frazer has chances are both defenses will look clueless thrown seven interceptions to only four touch- against opposing offenses with big-time play- Associate downs. To win, the Irish will have to get up Sports Editor makers. It probably won’t be pretty, but for a Sports Editor early and prevent the Huskies from running group of seniors that has had a rough go of it the ball down their throats. I’m not very confi- over the last three years, that victory lap dent, but Notre Dame just has too much talent around Notre Dame Stadium will be sweet nonetheless. to let this one get away, especially on senior day. FINAL SCORE: Notre Dame 34, Connecticut 27 FINAL SCORE: Notre Dame 35, Connecticut 30 page 16 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

DAN WENGER Lineman transitions from guard to center

ry of its program. Wenger said the receivers, but instead of the By DOUGLAS FARMER trials of such an experience receivers running it, [Coach Weis] Sports Writer taught him lessons that carried let the offensive and defensive past the football field. linemen run it so we ran the fade Most players know how to play “Nothing is guaranteed, nothing routes and caught the balls,” the one position on the field. A good at all,” he said. “You just have to 300-pound lineman said. “It was- quarterback may even know what go with the situations that are n’t about scoring, but I caught a every position’s role is on every handed to you every day and go few passes. I might have to drop a play, but by no means could he with what is best for the team.” little weight and work on my line up anywhere but under cen- The Florida native started every hands a little more [before I can ter. game at center his junior year, line up out wide].” Dan Wenger knows how to play including the Hawaii Bowl. After starting all 13 games last three positions on the gridiron, Wenger said the experiences in season, Wenger reasonably and has started in two of them. Hawaii highlighted his four years expected to pick up where he left The senior lineman did not see at Notre Dame. The Irish broke a off this season, but new offensive any playing time his freshman postseason winless streak that line coach Frank Verducci had a season due to various injuries, but dated back to 1993 by beating different idea. Verducci wanted to he did not need in-game action to Hawaii 49-21. get sophomore right guard Trevor show the coaching staff his poten- “Absolutely phenomenal, to be Robinson some playing time, so tial. Wenger received praise a part of [breaking the losing he moved senior Eric Olsen into throughout the season for giving streak]. [It was] definitely one of Wenger’s spot at center, and the first-team defense tough com- my highlights,” Wenger said. Wenger found himself on the sec- petition in practice. He said this In the victory the Irish offense ond team for the first time since coincided with his goals coming to relied on a strong offensive line en his freshman year. South Bend. route to 413 passing yards and “At first it’s pretty disheartening “Just going from high school to 478 total offensive yards, but it to get that information,” Wenger IAN GAVLICK/The Observer college, the speed of the game might not have been the success said. “Unfortunately, that is the Senior center Dan Wenger has played all three inside lineman [picked up], and now you are on the field that Wenger remem- way football and life go some- positions during his time at Notre Dame. playing against guys with every- bers best. times. You just have to deal with one on scholarship, so everyone is “I’m going to move there some- the situation at hand and make confidence in myself and I’m get, and realize nothing is guar- pretty good,” Wenger said. “I defi- day,” he said of the island chain. the best of it. I wasn’t going to be going to show the coaches I’m anteed.” nitely saw myself developing into “Weather-wise, I still hate it [in in the dog house or lose any going to get the job done.” There is one guarantee — Dan a pretty good football player and South Bend]. I haven’t gotten used intensity out on the field.” Wenger got that chance after Wenger can line up on the inside working hard and aspiring to play to this stuff yet. I still love the Wenger set about giving the Robinson sprained an ankle of the offensive line wherever at the next level.” Florida sun, going to the beach. I coaches reason to get him back against Washington State. The needed, and he will continue to do Wenger’s sophomore season miss it every day.” on the field, and before the season senior played the majority of the so as often as asked. involved eight games of action, The weather led to some lighter even started he was the backup game in San Antonio, and made “I think I’m a better person for including five starts. His first moments during preparations for for all three interior line positions. the start against Navy at right having gone through this and for three starts, against Georgia Tech, the bowl game, including some “There is a sense of self-confi- guard. having to deal with it,” he said. Penn State and Michigan, were at odd practice techniques, referred dence that comes along [with “That definitely made me “You learn a lot about football right guard. He then started at to by Wenger as his favorite prac- knowing three positions],” he stronger and motivated me that way too.” center against Duke and Stanford, tice moments. said. “You can sit there and say to more,” he said. “I can tell that I the last two games of Notre “Our last practice before the yourself ‘Hey, if I’m in there or appreciate not only where I am Contact Douglas Farmer at Dame’s worst season in the histo- game, it was pat-and-go with the someone goes down, I have the at, but the amount of snaps that I [email protected]

ERIC MAUST Baseball player walks on, wins starting role

Maust said. “So after the game I By CHRIS MASOUD talked to the baseball coaches, Sports Writer they talked to the football coaches, so I walked-on and Balancing the work load of a made the team.” Notre Dame curriculum and an As the rule goes, walk-ons active social life can be quite a generally don’t see much of the challenge for the average field on Saturday afternoons, Domer. Try balancing that on especially quarterbacks. Unable top of commitments to the varsi- to continue at that position, ty football and baseball teams, Maust made the transition to and you have Eric Maust. punter and placeholder seam- “My social life takes a huge lessly. Backing up former Irish hit, but I balance it,” Maust punter Geoff Price, Maust said. “Freshman year the learned the intricacies of the increase in the academic load position for almost two years up from high school and then before seeing his first game athletically the increase com- action. mitment-wise and time-wise, it “Being a specialist, it’s a tricky was hard to juggle. But I can position because for the majori- say that I’ve ty of the time found the bal- you’re not play- ance, and the ing, but you know challenges that I “Playing football you’re going to went through, period, cool. Playing for play at some that’s been the Notre Dame, wow, point and you most rewarding that’s awesome..” know your role is VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer thing. If it was fairly important,” Senior punter Eric Maust originally came to Notre Dame to play baseball but chose to play easy, then it Maust said. “I try football as well. The former quarterback has been involved in multiple fakes this season. wouldn’t be as Eric Maust to have our spe- special.” senior punter cial teams period however, was not. “The thing I like about Coach career. But wherever he goes, A scholarship in practice mimic “I’m a real competitive guy, so Weis is he’s very goal-oriented,” he will never undervalue the baseball player the intensity of we’d always have during prac- Maust said. “It’s always what’s impact Notre Dame football has and one of the Irish’s top pitch- the game, so I’m trying to hype tice throwing competitions,” the next step, because if you had on his life. ers heading into the 2010 sea- myself up every kick. I’ve never Maust said. “The Thursday look at everything at a whole “My favorite moment is to son, Maust verbally committed considered myself just a punter, before USC week we had game- and don’t chop it up into pieces, know that my parents are in the to play baseball out of high I’ve always just considered planned the fake, so everyone it can really seam insurmount- stands too,” Maust said. “You school. But after seeing his first myself an athlete.” was trying to coach me, and able at times. Each week there’s couldn’t pay me any amount of game at Notre Dame Stadium, Maust’s athlete-mentality has Clausen’s giving me pointers. a goal, and at the end of the money to exchange the experi- Maust felt he had the skills to be come through on more than one But in the game, when we just week you get to look back and ence I’ve had. It happens every a part of the Notre Dame foot- occasion for the Irish in key sit- executed it perfectly, I’m going see if you accomplished that time I put on the helmet. ball tradition. uations in big games. Maust to be telling that story for a long goal, and that resonates with There’s nothing that can replace “I had a couple of offers out of found the end zone following a time. That was game evidence me because that’s the way I’ve the feeling you get. Playing foot- high school to play quarterback bad snap during a field goal that ‘Hey, I’m an athlete.’” structured my life.” ball period, cool. Playing for at some smaller Division-I AA attempt in the first half against Like many players, Maust has Majoring in finance and theol- Notre Dame, wow, that’s awe- and Ivy League Schools, but in Boston College before the touch- drawn parallels between his ogy, Maust recognizes the value some.” my mind I was thinking I’m just down was called back. His com- experience on the gridiron and of a hard-earned education. playing baseball. But in my pletion to Robby Parris on a his experiences outside of foot- Upon graduation, he plans on Contact Chris Masoud at heart I couldn’t let football go,” fake field goal play against USC, ball. pursuing a professional baseball [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 17

SERGIO BROWN Outgoing safety gives Irish a shot of athleticism

breakups and a pair of blocked By MATT GAMBER punts. Sports Editor “I just had to be patient and wait for my time to play,” Brown Editor’s note: This article first said. “A lot of special teams, and appeared in the Nov. 6 edition of then my role got bigger last year The Observer. playing some nickel. Now I’m on the field a lot, and I’m loving it His teammates and coaches right now.” call him Notre Dame’s best ath- His coaches are loving it, too, lete. But just how athletic is sen- as Brown’s play at safety the ior safety Sergio Brown? past two weeks has allowed the He’s been dunking alley-oop Irish to shuffle its personnel to passes on the basketball court produce Notre Dame’s best con- since early in high school. He secutive defensive performances says he’s never lost a foot race in of the season the past two his hometown of Maywood, Ill. weeks. And he can do back flips — in Brown made his first start at full pads after playing a football safety for the Irish in their 20-16 game in front of 80,000-plus. Or win over Boston College, as in a Notre Dame polo shirt, Notre Dame bumped junior baggy blue jeans and street Harrison Smith back to the line- shoes, as he did for a photo backer spot where he enjoyed shoot. success last season. After the “Me and my brother were Irish thumped Washington State always just goofing around in 40-14 last weekend, Brown is the house. It really started after slated to make his third straight the movie ‘3 Ninjas’ came out,” start at safety — and seventh of Brown said. “We just started try- the year overall — Saturday ing to flip and stuff outside with against Navy. mattresses. My mom started get- “I think he’s earned his way ting scared, so she said if we’re into being a full-time player on going to do all this flipping, we defense,” Irish coach Charlie PAT COVENEY/The Observer might as well learn how to do it Weis said. “So just the fact that Senior safety Sergio Brown has earned his reputation as an impact defender with his swaggering, so we won’t hurt ourselves. I’ve it’s taken some time for him to confident attitude. just been flipping since.” get there, but he’s there now, Brown’s back flips have only he’s playing on every down. I high school 40-yard dash time at solo tackles for the season, but Jimmy while they were talking, recently become a staple of the think that’s where he’s made the a blazing 4.40 seconds, the kind perhaps his greatest contribu- acting like a fool. Jimmy started Irish postgame celebration. But most significant progress.” of speed that can’t be taught. tions have come with the emo- to bust down laughing. We just position-wise, he’s been flipping There’s never been a shortage He’s come a long way from his tional spark he has provided a all mess with each other.” since he arrived at Notre Dame. of ability for Brown, who was a tumbling days, but he can still defense that, at times earlier in But Brown’s fun isn’t limited to Until now. long jump state qualifier and, as flip and fly. the season, lacked the confident jokes with teammates. Last A four-star safety recruit out of a high school junior, returned “He’s one of the most athletic swagger and positive attitude he spring, he filmed a one-minute Proviso East H.S., Brown made five of his six interceptions for guys on our team,” sophomore brings. spot for insidenotredamefoot- 97 special teams appearances in touchdowns. In fact, Brown was defensive lineman Ethan “You say he’s emotional, but ball.com in which he and Jack 11 games as a freshman in showcasing his athleticism long Johnson said. “He can jump really, he’s upbeat,” Johnson Swarbrick, Notre Dame’s direc- 2006, making four tackles in before he suited up at the high through the roof, and he’s really said. “He’s a good kind of emo- tor of athletics, mimicked the kickoff and punt coverage. The school level — and on a much fast. He can bring so much to the tional. It’s infectious, and he popular Geico commercials fea- next season was much of the different stage. table at the next level, too. He’s really brings something else to turing celebrity spokesmen for same, as he played in nine He performed with Mr. Ernie’s definitely a special player.” our team that’s going to be hard “real people.” The video idea games and made seven tackles Flip, Flop ‘n Fly, a Maywood- Brown’s teammates say he’s a to replace next year.” stemmed from Brown’s comedic but saw limited action in the sec- based tumbling group, as a special person as well. His per- It seems no one, not even performance as a presenter at ondary. grade school student — times he sonality and his relationships Weis, can talk about Brown the 2008 OSCARS (Outstanding Brown emerged as an impact couldn’t help but laugh about as with his teammates have made without a chuckle and a smile. Student-Athletes Celebrating player out of the nickel defense he looked back. his success even more enjoyable “He’s a passionate kid,” Weis Achievements and Recognition as a junior last season. He made “We did parades and shows for the entire Irish squad. said. “He’s fun to be around. Showcase), held annually to his first career start in the 2008 and all that other stuff,” Brown “He’s a guy you can’t help but He’s a goof ball. But I really like highlight the achievements of season-opener against San Diego said. “Once I got bigger, it start- root for,” sophomore linebacker being around Sergio, and so do Notre Dame’s athletic teams. State and flashed much of the ed getting a little harder to flip.” Steve Filer said. “He’s a great his teammates. And I think that Brown said Charmelle Green, potential that had excited the So he started to use his athlet- guy. You can’t help but just he’s not selfish. He wants to be senior assistant athletics direc- Irish coaching staff in his first ic ability in other ways. cheer for him and hope he does around the fellas, and he’s just tor for student-athlete welfare two seasons. Brown made six “We race a lot in the neighbor- his best.” one of those heart-and-soul type and development, approached tackles (one for a loss), broke up hood to see who’s the fastest,” So far, so good for Brown, who players that people like being him with an idea for a video that two passes and blocked a punt Brown said. “I’m still undefeat- has looked comfortable in his around.” would air at last spring’s against the Aztecs to set the tone ed.” move back to safety alongside Notre Dame students who OSCARS. for a solid junior season, high- That’s not hard to believe, con- senior captain Kyle McCarthy. have had a class with Brown “They asked if I wanted to do a lighted by 28 tackles, six pass sidering Scout.com listed his He is fifth on the team with 18 might know him by something little commercial with Jack else, since he asks all his teach- Swarbrick, and I was like, OK, ers to call him by the nickname sure,” Brown said. “They want- he picked up from a rap song ed us to be like the Geico com- during his freshman year. mercials, so we set it up and it “One of my teachers, it’s hilari- was hilarious, a lot of fun. “ ous,” Brown said. “I’m the only In the video, Brown yells at the football player in there with camera, dances with a Notre dreads, so every day he’ll look Dame blanket draped over his around the class [joking] like, ‘Is back and, of course, does a back Splurge here today?’” flip — all while Swarbrick talks The Nelly song by the same about Notre Dame’ Monogram name may have faded from Club in a professional office set- memory, but the nickname ting. Splurge seems to have stuck — “They had me do a back flip though some of Brown’s team- at least 12 times — way more mates may have a new one for than you all had me do one,” him. Brown said. “Fake Whoopi Goldberg!” Not that it was a problem for Johnson yelled at Brown as he Brown, who will likely be in the left Wednesday’s media session, north end zone, preparing him- no doubt ragging on the safety’s self for another back flip after patented dreadlocks. Saturday’s game as his team- That’s the kind of relationship mates gather to sing the alma Brown has with his teammates mater. — and the fun goes both ways. “I like to have a lot of fun,” he “One time we were in the said. “I’m serious when the time training room and Jimmy is called, but everything’s always [Clausen] was talking to [former better when you’re having fun.” Irish quarterback] Joe And that includes the Irish Theismann,” Brown said. “I defense, especially with Sergio really didn’t know it was Joe Brown. IAN GAVLICK/The Observer Theismann at the time, and I Brown has shuffled positions in the Irish secondary throughout his career, earning playtime as a was just standing behind him, Contact Matt Gamber at nickelback, cornerback, and safety in 2008 and 2009. waving and making faces at [email protected] page 18 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

RYAN BURKHART Local kicker always keeps ND close to heart

life,” Burkhart said. “There’s freshman. By MEAGHAN VESELIK a lot of tradition there and a “Going to the Sugar Bowl Sports Writer lot of memories.” was my favorite memory,” he The decision to come to said. “Just the hype and going He was just another local Notre Dame was an easy one to a BCS bowl game, and that kid attending kicking camp for Burkhart. The Irish were chance to play for the the summer before his senior the first team to offer, and University.” year of high school, but that’s once he knew the Irish were Burkhart also recalled play- when it all started for Ryan interested Burkhart was ing in the Hawaii Bowl, and Burkhart. A kickoff specialist quick to accept. being part of the team that out of Northwood High School “I knew it wouldn’t get any broke the Irish bowl streak, in Wakarusa, Ind., a half-hour better with the academics, as being one of his best times away from campus, Burkhart football history and the tradi- on the team. has been living his dream the tion. I accepted right away,” “Hawaii was great just to past four years by wearing he said. say that you’re on that team the Notre Dame uniform. Coming in as a freshman that broke the bowl streak,” “Being so local, growing up meant a busy schedule from he said. “It’s all about football everything was Notre Dame the start with practices, drills, here, but there it was the first football,” Burkhart said. “It’s study hall, classes and team time we all got to hang out an incredible opportunity to meetings. It made the adjust- and get to know each other IAN GAVLICK/The Observer actually play for them. But ment process pass by quickly, better.” Senior kicker and Wakarusa, Ind., native Ryan Burkhart grew I’m humble about it, I don’t however, and gave him a His teammates have made up in the heart of Irish country. take it for granted.” chance to meet some of his Burkhart’s experience on the Recruited out of high teammates who would Notre Dame team the one that person to get to know,” he wearing the uniform, school, Burkhart knew com- become mentors and lifelong it has been. Not only does he said. “He helps you to mature Burkhart can only describe it ing to play for the Irish would friends, such as J.J. Jansen still keep in contact with for- and develop as a player and as one of his best life experi- be a different experience than and Geoff Price. mer players like Jansen and as a person. He is definitely ences. any he’d had before. Captain His decision paid off as he Price, he also cherishes the someone I want to stay in “I’m going to miss life in the of his high school team senior made it on the field in the relationships he has formed touch with.” dorm, roommates, walking by year, Burkhart recalls memo- fourth game of his freshman with other specialists, on and As he works on keeping in the Dome and Touchdown ries he had there as some of season after kicker Bobby off the football field over the touch with those he’s met Jesus, little things like that,” his most special times. Most Renkes was injured against past four years. here, Burkhart, a manage- he said. “It brings chills, I exciting was his senior sea- Michigan State. He kicked in “We’ve strengthened our ment consulting and psychol- can’t even explain it. I’ve had son, where, although they the final nine games of the friendships, know more about ogy major, hopes to find a the chance to be around a were 3-6 in the regular sea- season and made 45 special each other and know what position in either Chicago or great group of guys and coach son, his team was able to bat- teams appearances, including each other has been through. Indianapolis for a few years for four years and the oppor- tle against the top teams to in the Sugar Bowl against They’re a great bunch of before returning closer to tunity of playing and wearing win it all. His dream job is LSU. guys.” home and, hopefully, working that helmet on Saturdays. It’s even going back there and “It was an incredible expe- Another mentor Burkhart as a high school athletic incredible, all for a couple being his high school athletic rience,” Burkhart said. “It’s has found in his time at Notre director, whether at his alma moments.” director. an experience in the first Dame is special teams coordi- mater or not. “I still want to be around place to come to play at Notre nator, Brian Polian. Looking back on his four Contact Meaghan Veselik at sports, I have been my whole Dame and then to play as a “Coach Polian is a great years at Notre Dame and [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 19

MIKE ANELLO Scrappy walk-on becomes special teams star

on the punt team … The one By DOUGLAS FARMER guy making plays was Mike Sports Writer Anello.” After spending 2006 on the Originally Mike Anello saw sideline, he cracked the depth walk-on tryouts as a way to chart in 2007, and earned avoid the freshman 15, not as notoriety in 2008. Opposing a way to end up speaking to teams had 72 returns in the thousands of fans before the 12 games Anello played in last USC game this year. season, and he was a part of “At the end of [my senior] the tackle on 23 – nearly one- season [in high school] I was third – of those returns. talking to my football coach, In the season opener against and I decided I’d try walking San Diego State, the then- on the football team [at Notre anonymous special teams Dame],” Anello said. “Worse player made four solo tackles. comes to worse it would keep The following week Anello me in shape for another nine sparked the Irish victory over months.” Michigan with three more The Chicago-suburb native tackles, an early forced fum- barely even played football in ble and the ensuing recovery high school, only seeing the to set up the Irish to take a field his senior season. Rather, 14-0 lead. The play occurred he shined on the wrestling directly in front of the Notre mat, where he learned the Dame student section, and skills that helped him work his Anello was no longer an way onto the Irish football unknown. team in the spring of 2006. “It was incredible. I talked “The wrestler mentality of to my mom and dad every just really pushing yourself so week and it seemed like every hard and just going beyond week we were like, ‘Can it get your limits helped me out so any better?’” Anello said of his much,” he said. “Everything instant fame. “The next week we have done here has been a it would get better. It was an lot easier than what I did in incredible experience and it high school in wrestling.” literally changed my life.” Irish coach Charlie Weis Again, it was the wrestler VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer agreed with Anello that his showing through in Anello Senior cornerback Mike Anello spent two years working his way up the depth chart before wrestling background helped that made him into a special exploding onto the scene as the Irish’s most ferocious special teamer in 2008. him on the football field. teams stud, as he always “[Anello is] a guy from looked for the chance to make circled on the schedule for this other average freshman. offers, which he has narrowed Chicago, came in here a little plays when chasing down a season — Michigan and USC. “It’s incredible to be in the down to two possibilities. rugrat wrestler … Everyone return man. The week before the USC con- stands for a game. I was there “I might try the pro day told him he couldn’t play foot- “I just can’t wait to get down test, he was casually talking for the USC game my fresh- depending how everything fin- ball,” Weis said. “He comes there [on returns],” he said. with Weis about certain man year when the Bush Push ishes up for me,” Anello said. out, walks out on the team, “As long as they don’t call for aspects of the rivalry and how happened, and that was a lot “But if I don’t do that I’m ends up being a pain in the a fair catch you are licking important it was for the fans of fun,” Anello said. “But run- going to head out to Boston to butt on the scout team, a real your chops getting ready to to understand the true mean- ning out of the tunnel is really work for a venture capital nuisance.” get after him.” ing of it when s o m e t h i n g firm.” While Weis used “rugrat,” Anello finished last season Weis said Anello you’ll never Weis said Anello may want Anello sees more of a competi- with 23 total tackles in 12 should be on his u n d e r s t a n d to hold off on any plans involv- tive aspect to the matter. games. A broken leg suffered toes during the “I just can’t wait to until you do it. ing a desk job for a bit longer “When I came here I was on his first play against USC pep rally that get down there [on It’s an incredi- yet. just like I’ll try walking on the kept him out of the rest of that week. ble experience.” “He’ll end up in somebody’s team just to see, stay and game as well as the Hawaii “[Weis and I] returns]. As long as While Anello camp this summer,” Weis said. compete and everything like Bowl. had just been they don’t call for a r e p e a t e d l y “He’ll be one of those pains in that,” he said. “Once I got out Despite not being able to talking earlier fair catch, you are referred back to the butt to get rid of because there and started competing, I play in Hawaii, Anello still that week and sprinting out of he’ll be one of those guys on said, ‘You know, I might be enjoyed everything about the there were licking your chops the tunnel in kickoff team and on punt able to make some hay with bowl-game experience, espe- some things that getting ready to get front of a full teams that’s down there this and actually provide on cially the first postseason vic- I wanted to after him.” stadium, he has involved in every play.” the field and make some tory for the Irish in its last 10 make sure never been sat- Weis already sympathized plays.’” tries. everyone knew isfied with that with whoever is debating cut- And make plays Anello did, “I had a metal rod put in my what was going Mike Anello alone. In 2006, ting Anello in the summer, as at first only in practice to his leg with a screw on top to on with the situ- senior cornerback the season the Weis knows the feeling from a coach’s frustration, but before keep it secured so I couldn’t ation; we had to then-sophomore few years ago. long he made it to the field on really do too much in Hawaii. get the crowd spent on the “You going to want to look at Saturdays. … But just being there with all up and there sidelines watch- him and cut him just by look- “[He’s] one of those guys the guys and getting that big were a few other things I ing the Irish, he only thought ing at him,” he said. “Then where every time you go monkey off our back, to finally wanted to get across when about playing in the game, about halfway through you are around he is blowing up a play get people off us, felt good,” [the captains] were speaking,” even as a walk-on. going to say what are we then you are getting mad he said. Anello said. “He told me not to “I would always be out and going to do about this guy?” because he is blowing up a After the two games on the be surprised if he called me people would ask if I played Summer training camp or play,” Weis said. “Next you sideline, especially the USC up there, and I was hoping it for Notre Dame, and I could Boston desk job, Anello said thing you know you put him game, Anello had two games would happen.” only reply ‘Kinda,’” Anello he’ll thank the past five years It did happen. After Rocket said. “I wanted to be con- for much of what he has Ismail had coaxed the crowd tributing; I didn’t want to just become. into a frenzy with yells of be a part of it.” “The easiest way to put it is “This is not a game!” and Yet again, the wrestler life changing,” he said. “From “Let’s go get it!” Weis handed inside showed through his day one when I got out there it the mic to Anello. The walk-on pads as Anello turned his side- has just been incredible.” was not fazed by the Notre line status into motivation of The most incredible part of Dame legend’s antics before- the strongest kind. it all for the seemingly aver- hand and topped the pep rally “I’d walk off the field on age student, shorter than six off promising the throngs of Saturdays after not playing feet and weighing less than Irish fans “a victory lap and take that to heart and use 200 pounds, has been some- around campus with the goal- that as motivation to push thing that only the far-from- posts on our shoulders.” myself in the off seasons and average every get to do, and “That was an awesome feel- during the season to find a Mike Anello surely has proven ing, looking out over that way onto the field,” he said. himself to be more then he crowd of people,” Anello said Success on the football field looks and to be much more a few weeks after the pep was slow to find Anello, a than average. rally. “I never could have problem he never had in the “Running out of the tunnel imagined I’d be in that situa- classroom, where he earned a and seeing 80,000 people fill- tion with a chance to speak.” 3.937 GPA. ing the Stadium, I still get the The first time Anello saw the “For me it is basically the mental image in my head,” Irish play the Trojans he was student life. I don’t really get Anello said. “It is an unbeliev- certainly not in a position to noticed at all,” he said. able experience.” IAN GAVLICK/The Observer speak to the Notre Dame Such excellence on and off Anello attended walk-on tryouts as a way to stay in shape when masses; he watched the game the field has already earned Contact Douglas Farmer at he first arrived at Notre Dame. from the stands with every the walk-on numerous job [email protected] page 20 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

JAMES ALDRIDGE Aldridge relishes unique college experience

Dame began as a high school By MIKE GOTIMER senior at Merrillville H.S. in Sports Writer Merrillville, Ind., where he finished with 3,803 all-pur- “Live unique.” pose yards in just two years These two words help to at the school, including 1,433 exemplify the career of Irish yards and 21 touchdowns in running back James Aldridge his senior season. That during his four years at earned him a spot as one of Notre Dame. Arguably no nine running backs on other senior has taken Parade’s Prep All-America advantage of the many bene- team, and he was also one of fits of playing Notre Dame 16 candidates for the Parade football both on and off the All-America High School field, making his experience Football Player of the Year truly unique. award. Aldridge’s Notre Dame Like so many others before career began in a way that him, Aldridge was attracted was decidedly unique when to Notre Dame because of the compared with University’s how most other prestige. top recruits “ Yo u c o m e enter college. here, you really The heavily know about the recruited run- “It was a culture tradition, and n i n g b a c k shock, but I thought it once you get became one of here and see t h e f i r s t was a culture shock what it’s all recruits under that I needed.” about, that’s Irish coach what really Charlie Weis to James Aldridge drew me here,” participate in Aldridge said. t h e e a r l y senior running back “They play this enrollment pro- recruiting video g r a m . T h e for all the experience had recruits with s u c h a b i g all this Notre impact on Aldridge that he Dame stuff, and I was just still considers it his favorite like ‘alright, I’m coming.’” memory at Notre Dame four Once he got to campus, years later. Aldridge began to make his Observer File Photo “Moving in, I was an early Notre Dame experience Senior running back James Aldridge has taken advantage of everything Notre Dame has to offer enrollee, you know, when I unique almost instantly. He both on and off the field during his career with the Irish. was in high school one week learned to embrace all of the and the next week I was in opportunities and special in the dining hall taking it all and registered his first “It’s camaraderie,” college,” Aldridge said. “So spots on campus — including in, Aldridge has taken advan- career multi-touchdown Aldridge said. “I mean, I just the transition period and his favorite place, North tage of many of the opportu- game. For the season, don’t have any of the respon- getting acclimated to every- Dining Hall. nities available on campus, Aldridge finished with 357 sibilities. When you think thing when I first got here “You know, spring semester including the football field. yards on 91 carries. about it, I mean this stuff’s was the most expansive when I first got here and Aldridge came into Notre In 2009, in the middle of a hard, but there’s people my memory I have.” after nights of going out, you Dame as a freshman on the crowded backfield, Aldridge age who are in the war right It was an experience know I’d wake up in the talented 2006 team that fea- moved from halfback to full- now. I mean I got to go to Aldridge thought was impor- morning and go to North tured stars like Brady Quinn back. Although injuries have college, play ball, I don’t tant for him, and he feels it [Dining Hall] with my room- and Jeff Samardzija. limited the psychology major have to pay for anything, you helped him grow a lot as a mates, and I would be sitting Although he missed the first to only four games this sea- know, you couldn’t ask for person. in the dining hall for hours five games of that season, he son, Aldridge plans to finish much more, and I just appre- “It was a culture shock, but on end just looking at girls,” played in seven out his career ciate that. I thought it was a culture Aldridge said with a laugh. of the team’s strong. “It really puts things in per- shock that I needed,” he said, “But it’s just kind of the way final eight “ I w a n t t o spective when you see where “As a person I grew up, and I I was when I was younger games, finish- continue to you are I guess in compari- grew to like everything. I you know.” i n g b e h i n d “I’m having fun, I’m embrace what son to a lot of other people. mean I love it.” Since those early days Darius Walker happy, I’ve learned a this University I’m having fun, I’m happy, Aldridge’s road to Notre where he would spend hours as the team’s is about while I’ve learned a lot as a person, second leading lot as a person, and I I ’ m h e r e , ” and I don’t know what else rusher with 142 don’t know what else Aldridge said. you could ask for.” yards on 37 you could ask for.” A f t e r t h i s Ultimately, Aldridge has carries. s e a s o n , been extremely pleased by Aldridge was Aldridge plans the unique opportunities that then one of the James Aldridge to continue to have presented themselves to bright spots senior running back train, but in his him throughout his time at during Notre s p a r e t i m e Notre Dame and has enjoyed Dame’s rough a s i d e f r o m his time on campus and 2007 campaign, that, he’ll con- clearly thinks that it’s a spe- leading the tinue to add cial place that will continue team with 463 rushing yards. the “unique” streak he has to help him foster his goal to His most memorable start with respect to other football continue to “live unique.” came against Michigan State players by launching his own “It’s been a great experi- when he became the first clothing line, aptly named ence,” he said. “Best decision Irish running back since Tony “Live Unique.” I’ve ever made in my life. I Fisher in 1999 to register “I’m going to continue to mean, this place in particular more than 100 yards in his train and see how that goes, is a special university, and I first career start with 104 but I started my own clothing guess in every situation, yards on 18 carries. line not too long ago. It’s every student has their Aldridge’s biggest highlight called ‘Live Unique,’ that’s unique experience here and in that game came when he launching in the spring,” mine isn’t any different. You busted out a 43-yard carry Aldridge said. “It’s something know a lot of our time is on Notre Dame’s second scor- that I spend a lot of my time invested [in the Gug] and a ing drive that resulted in only on you know besides football. lot of our time is invested in their second offensive touch- I’ve always been interested in the books and everything, down of the season. fashion, and it’s just some- and there’s things out there He also rushed for a career thing that I’d figured why not that let you embrace what high 125 yards against Navy. start it up now.” this University’s all about. During his junior season in When he leaves here, “I got a chance to go to 2008, Aldridge notched his Aldridge says he’ll miss the London and travel to the first career touchdown when locker room and the team- Netherlands, and I’ve never he burst through the line of mates inside of it the most. seen that before and it’s scrimmage from two yards He also will miss the more things like that [that make out against North Carolina. laid back aspects of college Notre Dame special].” IAN GAVLICK/The Observer Two weeks later at life because he realizes that Participating in Notre Dame’s early enrollee program helped Washington, Aldridge led the he’s lucky to have had this Contact Mike Gotimer at define Aldridge’s college career. team with 84 rushing yards opportunity. [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 21

GEORGE WEST West still treasures 2006 score against Purdue

Dame career, nothing has he calls his second home is By CHRIS MICHALSKI taken away from his overall the Guglielmino Athletic Sports Writer experience as a Irish football Complex, his story doesn’t player. end with football. Like many In 2006, Notre Dame was “I’m happy to be a part of student-athletes at Notre stocked with talent and head- it. It’s something that helps Dame, getting a good educa- ed toward a BCS bowl. It was me keep my head up, some- tion is just as important for not surprising to fans then thing to strive for,” West said. West. In fact, the academics when quarterback Brady “I’m not just playing for of Notre Dame were on par Quinn marched his offense 70 myself; I’m playing for the with its tradition as far as yards down the field for a story, the University. what drew West to campus. score capped by an 11-yard Wearing that gold helmet “You might see good foot- end-around on the first drive means a lot to me.” ball somewhere and you of the game against Purdue. With all of the special might see good academics But to senior wide receiver places on Notre Dame’s cam- somewhere but you don’t see George West, pus that are both at many schools, and this play meant filled with tradi- the combination of both is much more. He “I’m playing for the tion, the Grotto, really what brought me was the receiv- T o u c h d o w n here,” he said. er who scam- story, the University. J e s u s a n d West is currently enrolled pered into the Wearing that gold Stonehenge, in the Mendoza College of end zone for helmet means a lot there are many Business as a finance major. the score, his things that all “I love numbers, and it kind first and only to me.” students can of gave me the opportunity in touchdown of enjoy. But run- the big picture to work with his Notre Dame George West ning through numbers and work with peo- career. The senior receiver the tunnel and ple.” play was the onto the field is He said both his parents only time West one thing that is are the main contributors in VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer touched the ball on offense reserved for football players, getting him to where he is Senior receiver George West scored his first touchdown against that game, but it was his and something West will today. Purdue his freshman year on an end-around run. favorite memory and a never experience after this “They helped me with my moment he said he would season. work ethic and they taught that since I’ve been here We’ve been in this relation- never forget. “[Coming out of the tunnel] me what it means to be a have become my best ship together for about four West had his best produc- is something that you can’t hard-working guy, a stand-up friends,” West said “They are years now and it should just tion his sophomore year compare, something that you guy,” West said. friends for life, friends that I keep going from there.” when he tallied 172 receiving can’t duplicate,” West said. What has really made will never forget.” Already proving this point yards and 22 return yards. “Coming out of that tunnel is West’s experience unforget- Specifically, West is closest true, West paused halfway He also notched 271 return an opportunity that a lot of table is the people he experi- with his roommates, running through talking to laugh and yards his freshman year people don’t get, something a enced it with. He said his back James Aldridge and say goodbye to a friend, a where he started on the kick lot of people wish they could favorite things about Irish linebacker Toryan Smith. teammate, as he left the return team. Although his do. It’s something I’m really football are his teammates “They are guys I’m with Guglielmino. injuries his junior year have going to miss.” and getting to know people in every day,” he said. “Guys I caused his playing time to Although West’s favorite general. knew since I’ve been here, Contact Chris Michalski at decrease late in his Notre place on campus, and what “There are a lot of guys when I came early with them. [email protected]

MIKE NARVAEZ View from the stands not good enough for walk-on

However, he had never been more and decided to try-out friends for Narvaez. as part of his spring schedule, By MEAGHAN VESELIK to a Notre Dame home foot- in the spring of his freshman “It gives you a new perspec- he plans on making the most Sports Writer ball game until the fall of his year. tive running out of the tun- of his free time, and is excit- freshman year, and the expe- “I thought I’d give it a try,” nel,” he said. “I’m still on ed for the new opportunities A walk-on from Ridgewood, rience was life-changing. he said. “The opportunity was cloud nine.” presented to him. N.J., fullback Mike Narvaez “My first game was Penn there, and I didn’t want to “It takes up a lot of time “Life without football — I’m sees being a part of the Notre State freshman year,” have any regrets while I was and is different from my fall going to take ballroom danc- Dame team as a dream come Narvaez said. “It was an here, and I’m very fortunate of freshman year, but some of ing, piano lessons and do true. After growing up watch- unreal experience.” with how it turned out.” my best friends are on this things I haven’t been able to ing the Irish on TV, and visit- After standing in the stu- For Narvaez, football was team,” Narvaez said. “Once do. I don’t regret football; I ing the University during high dent section throughout the not part of his life until fresh- you hang out and get to know just want to take advantage school, he knew it was the 2006 season, however, man year of high school — he these guys, they’re not just of the opportunities. Notre place for him. Narvaez knew he wanted was too big for the Pee-Wee football players. You get to Dame is a great school all- leagues when he was know them behind the scenes around, and I don’t want to younger. and they’re really good guys.” take anything for granted.” Starting off at fullback, Not only are his teammates After graduation, Narvaez’s Narvaez volunteered to play part of Narvaez’s favorite busy schedule will most likely left tackle to help his team things about being on the start all over again as he has out. team, but the tradition of plans to go to medical school. His team went on to win Notre Dame football is also This time, though, he’s hoping state in both his sophomore very important. “It’s being to stay closer to home, look- and junior seasons, but able to go back to my home ing at schools in New York Narvaez tore his ACL his town and say, ‘I play Notre and along the East Coast with sophomore year. Dame football,’” he said. “It’s hopes of becoming an ortho- “It was tough being hurt an accomplishment and I pedist or sports medicine doc- watching them play in a giant gave it my best shot.” tor. stadium,” he said. “But my One of his favorite memo- Wherever he goes, it looks senior season I came back ries of the past three years on like his football roots will and had a lot of motivation, a the team? Traveling to Hawaii stick with him. Reflecting on lot of energy, and that was a and breaking the bowl streak. his four years at Notre Dame lot of the reason I tried out “It was like a fully paid and three seasons on the [at Notre Dame]. I felt like I vacation. We had a lot of free team, Narvaez couldn’t help had some unfinished busi- time, and spent it hanging out but keep a big smile off his ness.” with the team. I got to know a face. His “unfinished business” lot more about some of my “I wanted to have no turned into a strict schedule teammates and make Notre regrets,” he said once more. he imposed on himself the Dame history.” “The opportunity was there, spring of his freshman year. Being part of a varsity team and I tried to take advantage. “Everything was so regiment- does have its time commit- I’ve learned a lot of lessons ed trying out, I went to bed at ments, but Narvaez has and made a lot of friends. I 9:30 and had to be up at 4:30 retained his strong ties to his wanted to make the most of for practice.” dorm, Morrissey, and the it.” The results are evident — a friends he made there fresh- From the excited look on his walk-on spot on one of the man year, living with two face, it seems like he did. VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer nation’s most legendary col- Morrissey friends off-campus Senior walk-on fullback Mike Narvaez knew after watching only lege football teams and a this year. Contact Meaghan Veselik at one game from the stands that he wanted to be on the field. whole new group of close However, without football [email protected] page 22 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

PAUL DUNCAN Duncan eager to leave Notre Dame with a win

home game when he walked where I was and that I wasn’t By ALEX BARKER onto the field for the first time ready to go yet physically or Sports Writer in front of a sell-out crowd mentally. I just wasn’t ready to against Michigan State on Sept. go and it was just a blessing From the time he stepped on 17, 2005. being able to come back for campus back in 2005, fifth-year “Running out there, I had another season.” offensive tackle Paul Duncan been used to a high school sta- Despite being granted the has been in the mix on the Irish dium, expecting to be able to extra year of eligibility, Duncan offensive line. The Dallas, Ga. hear my family screaming,” said his years at Notre Dame native played just a few snaps Duncan said. “But obviously have gone by all too fast. during his very first game in a you’re not going to be able to do “It’s weird. I remember com- Notre Dame uniform but it was that here.” ing up here freshman summer an experience he said he would After playing as a reserve and going through all the stuff,” never forget. lineman throughout his sopho- he said. “There’s ups and downs “I wouldn’t say I was sur- more year behind then-fresh- along the way, but its crazy to prised to be out there,” Duncan man Sam Young, Duncan believe that the end’s right here said. “I was just really anxious stepped into a starting role his for me as a Notre Dame football to get in there and play. There junior year and experienced player.” were so many emotions going Notre Dame’s horrific 3-9 sea- As for next year, Duncan has on at one time that it’s hard to son first hand. Duncan his eyes set on continuing his pick out just one feeling.” acknowledged that he has football career at the next level. In that game, Notre Dame grown to become a much better He plans to keep training and clobbered Pittsburgh 42-21 on player since that season. enter the 2010 NFL Draft next the road in Charlie Weis’ Irish “I feel that from my stand- April. After playing in NFL he coaching debut on Sept. 3, point, I’m more prepared now hopes to follow in his father’s 2005. Duncan said he wants going in to each game physically footsteps in the construction nothing more than to achieve and mentally,” he said. “It’s just industry. But whichever way it that same result in his final a different feeling and attitude turns out, he credited football home game against Connecticut going in to each game that I and Notre Dame for preparing Saturday. didn’t feel then.” him so well for any scenario in “You don’t want to think After suffering a hip injury the future. DAN JACOBS/The Observer about the last time you played that forced him to sit out all of “My parents have always Despite the ups and downs that his class has seen during their in Notre Dame Stadium as a last season, Duncan was grant- talked about how sports teaches careers, senior tackle Paul Duncan remains focused on winning. loss,” he said. “It’s never an ed an extra year of eligibility life lessons,” he said. “There are appealing thought to anybody. A and returned to the starting so many things that you learn in the way of game preparation. his fellow seniors who have lot of the younger guys are lineup at the left tackle position like adversity. Our season didn’t “I’ve never been that vocal,” experienced a number of ups going to come out hard trying to this season. really go how we wanted it to, he said. “I just try to do things and downs during their Irish get a win for the seniors and “I think [having an extra year] but life goes on and you still by example because you can’t careers. And Saturday marks fifth-year guys and it means a helped me out a lot,” Duncan have to keep pushing and trying have too many guys saying stuff the final time that they will be lot that they respect us like said. “When [Mike Turkovich] to improve and get better.” or it just all gets lost in the mix. able to accomplish that goal that.” was leaving last year, I was While Saturday’s game will So I’m just going to try to lead within the friendly confines of The biggest surprise for thinking that could have been have a much different feeling by example.” Duncan came during his first me sitting right there next to for Duncan, he said that he isn’t With that in mind, winning is Contact Alex Barker at him. I was thinking about going to be making any changes still the focus for Duncan and [email protected]

TORYAN SMITH Linebacker credits family for helping him succeed

wanted him to play the line, By BILL BRINK but Smith ended up at line- Sports Writer backer instead. “It was a real smooth tran- As Toryan Smith stood in sition,” he said. the hallway of the athletics The academics and the facility, talking about how prestige of Notre Dame important his family was to attracted Smith to South him, his phone rang. He took Bend, but once he got here, a look and chuckled. he said he realized how “That’s my mom, calling tough the college game was. right now,” he said. “It just went real fast,” he The linebacker, a self- said. described homebody, said he During his freshman year, talks to his Smith played in family every nine games and day. had nine tack- “That’s real “Any time you’re on les. He said important, to keeping himself keep in touch the field you have to in shape and with my fami- try to make the best maintaining his ly,” he said. opportunity of it.” strength and “ T h e y k e e p s p e e d w e r e y o u r h e a d important to straight.” Toryan Smith adjusting to col- When Smith senior linebacker lege. says the four “ T h e m a i n IAN GAVLICK/The Observer y e a r s h e ’s thing was just Senior linebacker Toryan Smith has tried to make the most of his opportunities on the field s p e n t h e r e to make sure to throughout his career with the Irish. seemed to have taken only a get yourself in good condi- year to complete, keeping tion, good shape,” he said. “Any time you’re on the playing football as long as I Even more than that, he one’s head on straight may “The game’s a lot faster, the field you have to try to make have the opportunity,” he said, the bonds he’s formed be harder than it looks. players are a lot stronger. the best opportunity of it,” he said. with his teammates super- Smith was no stranger to You got to come in and work said. “I was ready to go.” Thanks to his coursework, sede everything else from his the spotlight of Notre Dame. a little extra hard.” This season, he’s played in he’ll have the opportunity to time here. By playing his high school His sophomore season, he all 10 games and started try. He will graduate this “I think really just meeting ball in Rome, Ga., he experi- played in 11 games and two. Freshman Manti Te’o December with a double these guys that I’ve played enced the importance of started two of them. He made has taken over Smith’s line- major in sociology and com- with,” he said when asked southern high school foot- 14 tackles and also played on backer role as the season puter applications and will what he’d remember. “You ball. special teams. In 2008, his progressed; Smith said the train for the NFL Combine. can talk about all these big “You go to a game, you junior season, he played in season has taken some unex- “We’ll see what happens,” games, big stadiums, parties, seen 10,000 people,” he said. 10 games and started two. pected turns. he said. whatever you want to talk “It’s real big, there are a lot Against Navy, when starting “It’s a lot of ups and downs. Whatever happens, Smith about, but when it really of big rivalries, lots of big- linebacker Brian Smith was A lot of change, a lot of dif- said the community he expe- comes down to it … [it’s] the time players, lots of big-time sidelined because of an ferent things going on,” he rienced at Notre Dame will friends that I’ll have the rest football.” injury, he stepped up. Smith said. “It’s been a ride.” stick with him. of my life.” Smith’s father, Charles, recorded 10 tackles and That hasn’t stopped him “It’s an instant connec- played offensive line at returned a blocked punt for a from working. tion,” he said. “You really Contact Bill Brink at Georgia. Smith said his dad touchdown. “I’m going to try to keep feel it.” [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 23

BRIAN COUGHLIN Being on team fills void for wide receiver These early memories helped during the spring of his sopho- By MOLLY SAMMON Coughlin decide that attending more year, which has allowed him Sports Writer Notre Dame as a non-athlete to be on the football roster for his ruled over the prospect of being junior and senior year seasons. From the start of his freshman recruited to play football at a dif- ”It’s really like a 180-degree year at Notre Dame, Brian ferent school. turn,” Coughlin said of the neces- Coughlin knew something was “Seeing Notre Dame football on sary changes in transferring from missing, something was just not television and hearing about their a regular full-time student to a right about being away at school academics made me want to Division-I athlete. and not being a part of the foot- come here,” Coughlin said. “I real- “The brotherhood you have ball team. ized I had a chance to get in when with your teammates is definitely So he turned down Division III I was a sophomore in high school, something I’m going to miss after offers in the hopes of suiting up I applied, and I decided to come to graduating,” Coughlin said. for the Irish. Notre Dame.” The term brotherhood on the Now he’s a senior wide receiver. During his freshman and sopho- football team has a more literal As a senior at Brother Rice High more years, Coughlin played meaning to Coughlin in particular, School outside Chicago, he had Interhall football for Dillon Hall, as his younger brother Patrick the opportunity to talk to a few but was not satisfied and began also decided to come to Notre different college coaches about tossing around the idea of playing Dame and walk on the football the prospect of playing football at on the varsity football team. After team. the college level. But Coughlin had discussing the walk-on tryouts “It was fun to know that we different plans. with his roommate who had gone both made it on our own,” “I had some Division III coaches through the process, Coughlin Coughlin said. “Without having talk to me, they would come out to decided to prepare himself physi- me helping him, he knows that he the school, and we could talk to cally and give it a try. made it himself.” them,” Coughlin said. “But more “I talked to some of the other An important part of team specifically, I wanted to come to guys and they told me, and at the structure that Coughlin noticed is Notre Dame so I didn’t pursue time when I made it after the first the bond that the coaches have playing in college.” cut where they cut a lot of peo- formed with all players by stress- IAN GAVLICK/The Observer Coughlin and his younger broth- ple,” Coughlin said. “I was really ing the importance of every mem- Walk-on wide receiver Coughlin turned down offers from er, Patrick who is also a walk-on nervous at the first cut, but then it ber of the team. Division III schools in hopes of one day playing for the Irish. wide receiver at Notre Dame, kind of sunk in that I had a really “I got to sit next to coach Weis went to a few games when they good chance at making it.” in meetings this year, so I got to Deloitte Accounting and against Connecticut marks were younger and both fell in love Upon surviving all the cuts and know him better, which was cool Consulting Firm. He then intends Coughlin’s last football game,and with campus and with the fighting maintaining consistency in prac- because you wouldn’t really to return to Notre Dame for a next semester, his last as an Irish. He remembers one of his tice and workouts, Coughlin was expect the head football coach to fifth-year masters of accounting undergraduate at Notre Dame. first games in South Bend clearly, picked to be a member of the have a good relationship with program and hopes to find a job “I am definitely going to miss a rainy game against Navy. Notre Dame football team. even the walk-ons of the team,” as an accountant. the fact that at Notre Dame you “I still have a picture in my ”The first time running out of Coughlin said. “He and all the “Accounting gives me the best have a community of 8,000 peers basement of my brother, my the tunnel was just amazing,” other coaches want to make even options down the road,” Coughlin and people your age all around grandpa, my dad, and me at Coughlin said. “We ran out of the the walk-ons feel like they are said. “I learned a lot in my sopho- you,” Coughlin said. “I am going Notre Dame from that game, and tunnel for the Blue and Gold valuable players.” more year accounting class, and I to miss the people the most.” we all look so excited,” Coughlin game, but it just wasn’t the After graduating in the spring knew I wanted to be in the busi- said. “It was so long ago, but I same.” with a major in accounting, ness school.” Contact Molly Sammon at remember being so happy.” Coughlin walked on the team Coughlin will be interning at This week’s final home game [email protected]

PADDY MULLEN Irish Catholic nose tackle cherishes his time at ND By DOUGLAS FARMER of the recruiting experience. “It same time,” he said. “You push said. “It was the last play, time ran when you’re up,” Mullen said. Sports Writer was a lifelong dream. Growing up yourself even harder to stand out out as I did it, so most of the guys “You just keep a level head and Irish Catholic I’ve always been an from the crowd.” were on the field. They congratu- keep on plugging.” Irish fan.” Mullen did not see any game lated me and I did my dance.” Mullen said plugging away for When your first career sack Once he arrived on campus and action in 2006, but in his sopho- Mullen may have received some four years has benefited him comes in the second half of your saw some of his teammates, more campaign he played in three tips on dancing on the team’s trip already, and the four years aren’t senior season, you tend to treas- Mullen’s dream was in for a reali- games. Mullen recorded a tackle to Hawaii last even over yet. ure the moment. Fortunately, ty check. in his first game on the field D e c e m b e r. “You learn Paddy Mullen has been treasuring “It was a bit of a shock. There is against Georgia Tech. By then he More impor- from anything. his time at Notre Dame since he a change from high school, from played exclusively on the defen- tantly, Mullen This whole was first recruited to play for the being the man and coming here sive side of the ball, and last sea- grew closer to “It (my first sack) was experience, in Irish. where everybody was the man,” son the nose tackle played in 12 teammates he another surreal moment. the past four The senior was recruited out of he said. “Everybody could play.” games as a large — literally and now compares Everything moved so slow. years, I have DeSmet Jesuit H.S. in St. Louis as The blue-collar Irish Catholic figuratively — part of Notre to brothers learned so a defensive end who could play side of Mullen showed through Dame’s goal line defense. during the I just kept thinking, ‘Just much about some tight end as well by recruit- quickly in how he approached the “You have to be ready at all work-vacation. tackle him. Just tackle myself … You ing coordinator and receivers competition. times [when seeing limited play- “We prac- him. Don’t miss him.’” have to take coach Rob Ianello. “[The competition within the ing time],” Mullen said. “You kind ticed hard and things away “It was pretty cool,” Mullen said team] is kind of a blessing at the of deal with it, fulfill your role and we got to visit from it for life do what you can to be ready a few sites in Paddy Mullen afterwards.” whenever the coach calls upon Hawaii while senior nose tackle As that life you.” we were a f t e r w a r d s This season Mullen’s role has there,” he a p p r o a c h e s not changed much. He provides said. “It was a quickly, Mullen some depth on the Irish defensive great bonding knows he will line, and is ready whenever experience. I learned a lot about a miss his teammates when this defensive line coach Randy Hart lot of the guys on the team.” season finally ends. tells him to get in the game. Not only did the Irish bond, but “Oh yeah, [I’ll miss] the locker Mullen played in the closing they broke a not-so-favorable room and the camaraderie as a moments of Notre Dame’s 40-14 bowl streak that had been hound- team. I’ve grown to be pretty victory over Washington State, ing them for some time. much brothers with some of the and the former Morrissey Manor “Winning that game was a great guys. It’s going to be hard.” resident made the biggest play of thing,” Mullen said. “Getting that The familial feel extends past his career on the final play of the bowl streak out of the way was the locker room for this Irish game, sacking the Cougars quar- pretty cool.” Catholic though. He said he knows terback for the first of his Irish Though Hawaii was a good what separates Notre Dame from career. memory, other parts this senior every other school, and knows “[The sack] was pretty cool,” he class’ tenure were not: Mullen he’ll miss it more than anything said. “It was another surreal and his classmates saw the Irish else. moment. Everything moved so finish the year 3-9 in the 2007 “It’s the Notre Dame family, the slow. I just kept thinking, ‘Just season. Mullen possibly took as tradition, the classmates. Just all tackle him. Just tackle him. Don’t much away from that season as the people and the family feel of miss him.’” he did during the more pleasant this place.” Mullen’s teammates knew the 2008 season. COLEMAN COLLINS/The Observer significance of the moment, and “As my father always told me, Senior nose tackle Paddy Mullen saw coming to Notre Dame as paid him his due. you never get too low when you’re Contact Douglas Farmer at fulfilling a lifelong dream. “I just soaked it up a bit,” he down, and you never get too high [email protected] page 24 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

SCOTT SMITH Fifth-year linebacker becomes mentor on field

By BILL BRINK Weinburg told him he’d be playing middle linebacker. Sports Writer “I ended up just sticking there for the next three years Not many players can say the and playing a bunch of differ- first person they tackled in ent positions on offense,” he their college career was Steve said. “I guess I was able to Breaston. make a pretty good impression Scott Smith has that distinc- on some people.” tion. In his first game as a Smith said he liked getting freshman, he tracked down the off the line of scrimmage and former Michigan wideout and working in space rather than kick returner, who now plays pounding around in the trench- for the Arizona Cardinals and es. had more than 1,000 yards “I think [the coaches] tried to receiving last season, on a make it as easy for me as pos- reverse. sible. Just find the ball and go “One of those situations tackle someone,” he said. “As I everybody has when it seems got more comfortable and as I like things are moving so fast, got more used to playing the you really position my don’t have a responsibili- chance to kind ties kind of of get your increased.” bearings I “Its kind of weird how it’s Aside from guess,” Smith the combi- said. “That’s come full circle. One day nation of d e f i n i t e l y you’re this wide-eyed a c a d e m i c s s o m e t h i n g freshman, the next you’re and big-time that’ll proba- kind of like this wise old football that bly be one of Notre Dame IAN GAVLICKThe Observer the ‘tell my veteran. It’s pretty neat.” o f f e r e d , Smith was taken under the wing of linebacker Corey Mays as a freshman, and now similarly tries g r a n d k i d s ’ Smith said to be a mentor to his younger linebackers. stories. ‘This Scott Smith the size of was grandpa’s senior linebacker the school freshman now, so I’m trying to age,” he said. “It’s a little bit sleeping and spending time first play, first a t t r a c t e d return the favor, I guess, with different just because of the with roommates Paul Duncan tackle,’ proba- him and he them.” athletic difference, but some of and Bartley Webb. He’s also bly be a way liked the Now Smith answers ques- these linemen who are 315 got his TV schedule dialed up to build myself opportunity tions for younger linebackers pounds, you don’t expect them every week — on this particu- up in the future.” to be more than a number. like Manti Te’o, Carlo to move what they do, but they lar Wednesday, Law and Order: He doesn’t have to build him- “Smaller classes, [having] an Calabrese and Dan Fox. can get you too.” SVU awaited him. self up now, though. The fifth- opportunity to interact with “Its kind of weird how it’s For the past two seasons, “Probably the greatest show year senior acts as a coach on professors and build relation- come full circle,” he said. “One Smith has played under defen- ever made on TV,” he said. the field, the man who distills ships,” Smith said. “Those rela- day you’re this wide-eyed sive coordinator Jon Tenuta. Smith is currently taking defensive coordinator Jon tionships too are something freshman, the next you’re kind He’s acted as an intermediary graduate classes, but as an Tenuta’s schemes for the that will help me in the future of like this wise old veteran. between Tenuta and the play- undergrad he finished with a younger players and someone looking for jobs and getting It’s pretty neat.” ers. 3.65 grade point average. Time who portrays consistency and references and things like Smith didn’t play his sopho- “He’s like JT in that he’ll get management helped him, he character. that.” more year, but appeared in JT’s mes- said — as did “He’s just a regular guy. Goes As a freshman, Smith played every game in his junior and sage across playing to his to class, goes to work,” fellow behind linebacker Corey Mays, senior years. He made 18 tack- very well,” strengths. senior linebacker Toryan Smith who graduated in 2006 and les, seven solo, during his jun- a s s o c i a t e “I’ll be hon- said. “Does everything he’s now plays for the Kansas City ior season. head coach est, I didn’t do supposed to do. He’s a great Chiefs. In a way, Mays was to Smith said the biggest C o r w i n “He’s (Smith) really taken all the reading student. He’s a really good Smith as Smith now is to the improvement in his game is his Brown said for class,” he guy.” younger linebackers. ability to shed blocks. In high of Smith. on the player-coach role. said. “You kind Smith’s skills at linebacker “He seemed like that old guy school, he said, he could blow “He cuts He’s the coach when the of pick and developed late. Due to weight who knew everything and was by the blockers, but now he through the coach is not there.” choose your restrictions in middle school, the best guy to go to for advice needs to use his hands. This is fat.” spots where Smith played on the offensive and always had a good especially true since he’s T o r y a n you think you and defensive lines. At answer,” Smith said. “I really moved from middle linebacker S m i t h Toryan Smith can be suc- Highland Park High School in appreciate him taking me to outside linebacker at Notre agreed. senior linebacker cessful. It’s a Highland Park, Ill., he played under his wing. I’m sure I got a Dame, where he faces the tight “ H e ’ s factor of know- defensive end and tight end, little annoying with all the end on a regular basis. really taken ing my but at the beginning of his questions. I’m sure I look like “Obviously they’re a threat as on the play- strengths and sophomore year, coach Kurt that old guy to a lot of the a receiver playing man cover- e r - c o a c h w e a k n e s s e s role. He’s and applying the coach when the coach is effort where it was needed.” not there,” Toryan said. “I feel In the same way a defense like he really accepted the has moving parts, Smith wants leadership role on the team. He to be part of a business with a wasn’t asked to do it.” lot of moving parts and change. Smith said playing under He said he’d like to work in Tenuta not only gives him an business problem solving and opportunity not many other possibly re-enter the sports players get but a chance to world. learn lessons for a potential “I wouldn’t mind doing some- future in coaching. thing in sports, obviously, just “To have the opportunity to because that’s where the have one of the best defensive majority of my life has been coordinators in the country as spent,” he said. your position coach is not Whether it’s football, course something a lot of guys can work, a future job or dealing say,” he said. “The way that he with his family, Smith said he talks to us, and the way that he strives for consistency and helps us, and the way he cri- character. tiques our play is all geared “As a person the most impor- toward us becoming better tant thing for me is to be con- football players and us being sistent, to be approachable and better prepared to help the be that guy that you know has team win. It’s kind of nice to a real good character,” he said. get that view of being almost in “You hear a lot of people say his head, because everything character is what you do when he sees gets transferred right no one else is watching. That’s to us. what I try to be, the same per- “In the future possibly want- son all the time. Just know the ing to coach, having that per- people in my life, like my spective on how to approach friends in family, they know different types of opponents.” what they’re going to get. I’m Being a fifth-year senior just going to be me.” QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer gives Smith more time to relax, Fifth-year senior linebacker Scott Smith, 41, uses his years of experience to help direct and coordinate something that previously Contact Bill Brink at his teammates during defensive plays on the field. eluded him. He said he enjoys [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 25

RAESHON MCNEIL Once a pupil, Irish cornerback becomes a teacher

players have trouble adjusting By SAM WERNER to being a role player early in Associate Sports Editor their college career, he was ready for the transition. Just because Raeshon “It really wasn’t that bad for McNeil is a starting corner- me,” McNeil said of his adjust- back on a Division I football ment to college. “I’m really team doesn’t mean he doesn’t not a bigheaded type of guy. I feel the same about his col- understood what I had to do, I lege experience as most stu- understood paying my dues.” dents. While McNeil’s sophomore “It seems like it’s flown by,” season, in which the Irish McNeil said. “These four years went 3-9, may have been for- have just really flown by.” gettable for most fans, it did From his role as a special have some bright spots of the teams player in 2006 to his young cornerback. McNeil full-time start- recorded the ing role now, first start of his McNeil said that career at the anticipation “I just like helping Purdue, and for games in the notched his first fall, and looking people. Being in this sack against forward to foot- role for me is natural, Stanford. ball season in trying to coach up On a whole, the spring made though, he said his four years some of the younger the season was at Notre Dame guys, keeping them disappointing, speed by. focused during games but that it moti- It’s easy for vated himself, McNeil to look and stuff. All that and the rest of back at his stuff just comes the team, to recruitment naturally to me.” work harder for during high every win from school — after that point for- Raeshon McNeil all, it feels like ward. QUENTIN STENGER/The Observer just yesterday senior cornerback “Like a lot of Senior cornerback Raeshon McNeil started 13 games in a breakout 2008 season, finishing with to him. He said guys, I had 41 tackles and two interceptions. that Notre never been on a Dame’s aca- team that lost n’t there, so there I was left most of the freshman class. me is natural, trying to coach demic prestige, as well as the that many games,” McNeil on his guy,” McNeil said. “I He swooped them up real up some of the younger guys, camaraderie of the team, said. Really going though it end up making a play on a quick.” keeping them focused during attracted him to the Irish. and seeing that other side, it deep ball in the end zone, While he said the experience games and stuff. All that stuff “Meeting some of the other really made every win that we which was probably one of the was great, McNeil was fast to just comes naturally to me. It guys, Darius Walker and had in 2008 and this year bigger plays of my career.” admit the game, which the feels good to be in this posi- Chinedum [Ndukwe], I just felt [2009] that much more spe- Later that season, McNeil Irish lost 29-24 to North tion.” like it was a good fit for me,” cial.” got to experience another Carolina, could have gone bet- So far this season, McNeil McNeil said. McNeil finally broke out in memorable moment, when the ter. has notched eight total tackles Once he got to South Bend, 2008, his junior season. He Irish played at North Carolina, “It was great. It was horri- while playing in all 10 games McNeil said that those same started all 13 games for the the Cooleemee, N.C., native ble that we lost, but it was to date. After the Irish wrap players helped him get accli- Irish and had a number of got to play a college football great for me to go back up their season in two weeks mated with the program and career highlights. game just two hours from his there,” McNeil said. against Stanford, McNeil began his career as a college In fact, McNeil said that the hometown. At the same time, McNeil hopes that it won’t be the last cornerback. most memorable moment of Prior to the game, McNeil said he would always remem- regular season football game “Ndukwe was one of the his Irish career came in a 23- said that there was some com- ber the experience for getting he plays in. guys that really attracted me 7 loss to Michigan State in petition between himself and to play in front of his friends “I’m going to give this foot- to this place, one of the guys I East Lansing. Early in the fellow Tar Heel state residents and family. ball thing a shot,” he said of could really see myself hang- game, with the Irish trailing Robert Blanton and Kerry “I had a lot of family in his post-graduation plans. ing out with,” McNeil said. “I by only three, McNeil broke Neal for who could get tickets town,” he said. “A lot of peo- “God willing, I’ll still be play- really got to be great friends up an attempted deep pass for their friends and family in ple that aren’t able to make it ing. So hopefully my last game with Tommy Zbikowski, and from Spartan’s quarterback attendance. McNeil said he up here to see my play. My won’t be Stanford.” we still text and talk all the Brian Hoyer to receiver B.J. had to start planning in the grandmother was in the While professional football time. Also, Mike Richardson, I Cunningham. summer in order to get stands, all my brothers and is still the primary goal, the liked the way he played, the “They ran a little combina- enough tickets for the more my aunts were in the stands. industrial design major said instincts that he had.” tion route, where basically I than 20 friends and family It was great being able to go he has a good backup plan His freshman year, McNeil had to push and help the members that would be in back there and them being ready. played in 11 games for the backside corner and what attendance. able to see me play again.” “[Pro football is] the plan, Irish, and totaled four tackles happened was there was a lit- “Blanton actually got a pret- McNeil set another career but if that doesn’t work out, in mostly special teams duty. tle breakdown in the coverage ty good deal,” McNeil told The high in his homecoming game, I’m getting some things going He said that while some and the backside corner was- Observer last season. “He got notching a then-career high with industrial design,” he six tackles. said. “I plan on working on Later in the season, the jun- my portfolio in the spring, and ior notched his first two sending out my portfolio and career interceptions in Notre my résumé, try and get things Dame’s quadruple-overtime rolling.” loss to Pittsburgh. Either way, McNeil said he’s Now, McNeil is one of the a much more mature person more experienced players in now than he was four years the defensive backfield. He ago, both as a football player said that over the past four and as a person. That person- years he’s become close with al growth has also paid off on the other upperclassmen in the field, McNeil said. the secondary. He finished the “I just think that I’ve not season seventh on the team only matured as a player, but with 41 total tackles. as a person,” he said. “I feel “I’ve gotten really close to a like that’s only helped my lot of the DBs,” he said. “Me, game. Over these past four Sergio [Brown], Leonard years, the game has really [Gordon] and Darrin [Walls]. slowed down, and I think that We’ve been really tight since comes from maturity, being we’ve been here.” able to see things, being able With the experience, though, to understand the game comes an added responsibility. more.” McNeil said that he’s had to Things may have slowed take on the role of mentor to down for McNeil on the field, the younger defensive backs, but the past four years have like sophomores Robert still gone by more quickly Blanton and Jamoris than he ever could have imag- Slaughter. To McNeil, though, ined. IAN GAVLICK/The Observer being a teacher is no big deal. McNeil has relished the opportunity to mentor younger defensive backs like sophomores Robert “I just like helping people,” Contact Sam Werner at Blanton and Jamoris Slaughter. he said. “Being in this role for [email protected] page 26 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER Friday, November 20, 2009

DAN FRANCO Notre Dame obvious choice for South Bend WR about everybody I’ve met through role of a position coach. By CHRIS MASOUD here has been special.” “He’s on all of us about the Sports Writer Grinding through the daily rou- small things that we do right, the tine of a football season is more small things we do wrong,” Coming out of high school, the than just preseason workouts and Franco said. “He’s always paying decision of choosing the right col- a three-month schedule. Franco attention to us and taking notes, lege can be a stressful process. says the relationships he has so it’s really in the small details But for South Bend native Dan developed with his 108 team- that he won’t let us get away Franco, the decision to come to mates, and especially within the with. Maybe we’ll notice, maybe Notre Dame couldn’t have been wide receiver unit, has become we won’t, but he’ll notice them easier. an important part of his career. and make sure that they get cor- “It just seemed to be the perfect “I feel close to all my team- rected. Every coach is sort of like fit for me,” Franco said. “I was mates, but just being around the a father figure because it’s not raised in South Bend since I was guys in your same position, I always about football.” 8 months old, and I’ve been mean they’re so funny,” Franco Franco has never started a immersed in the whole tradition said. “They know how to focus, game for the Irish, but he has and everything, and I just loved it but they know how to not take come to understand his role as a since the beginning.” themselves too seriously at the valuable member of the offense A graduate of nearby Clay H.S., same time. There’s a lot of laugh- and taken it upon himself to Franco compiled some impres- ter that goes on from a real deep make his teammates better. sive numbers at the wide receiver place.” “As a walk-on, you know that position. Coupling that with the One of those moments came in you’re not going to be playing in desire to play for the Irish practice at the end of last season any games but when the fresh- instilled at an early age, Franco as the team prepared to travel to men first get here, they’re learn- walked onto the team as a fresh- the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. ing from everybody, the ropes man. During a one-on-one drill and things like that,” Franco said. Franco learned early on that between wide receivers and cor- “Especially during the summer coming to play for the Irish is nerbacks, Franco was the last when we do seven-on-seven stuff, much more than just a commit- receiver picked for the drill. His just helping them get along with ment to the football program. He opponent was starting senior cor- the plays, the tempo of practice, knows his Notre Dame experi- nerback Raeshon McNeil. how things are and even just VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer ence will be defined by more than “I went and scored a touch- talking to them about everyday South Bend native and wide receiver Dan Franco never wavered simply his accomplishments on down, and it was so unassuming life.” in his decision to go to Notre Dame. the field. and it came out of nowhere,” Conversely, Franco’s team- “The student body, just the Franco said. “It was pretty nice mates have made him a better around in good fun, but we’re on Franco said. “You just get really character of kids that are here, and everybody just swarmed me. player through their efforts to each other’s coattails, just getting close with the guys day in and it’s just a special group that I’m It was a blast. He let me get the compete for a job, and none more after one another, making sure day out, with early morning lifts really proud to be a part of,” best of him that one time, that than junior cornerback Nick we’re both doing our jobs.” or just in the middle of practice. Franco said. “Just about anybody one time.” Lezynski, a fellow walk-on. Without a doubt, Franco real- The memories and the stories I run into on campus, the profes- Franco says he owes a lot of his “We both share the same num- izes that when he graduates this that you get to carry with you, sors, there’s been a number of improvement and overall devel- ber, and we’re constantly compet- spring, his teammates and the that’s what I treasure most.” extraordinary people that I’ve opment as a player to wide ing,” Franco said. “‘Oh you made relationships he has developed been fortunate to meet through receivers coach Rob Ianello, who this play, what did you do today, will be missed the most. Contact Chris Masoud at football, outside of football. Just has taken on more than just the who’s the real 42?’ We’re joking “It sort of just happens,” [email protected]

LEONARD GORDON Fifth-year builds relationships with teammates

At other schools, he said, By ALLAN JOSEPH the football teams often broke Sports Writer up into small groups and players rarely spent time with Leonard Gordon passed up teammates outside of their a chance to achieve the small social circle. To Gordon, dream of most Southern foot- that simply isn’t the case here ball players by bypassing the at Notre Dame. Southeastern Conference to “I can hang with any of the flock North to Notre Dame. guys on the team,” Gordon The fifth-year senior from said. “I obviously hang out Clarksville, Tenn., chose the with the defensive backs the Irish over most, but I can Vanderbilt and really hang with LSU, and he any of the guys hasn’t looked on the team.” back. The former “I definitely “I’ve really become a Dillon Hall resi- made the right man here.” dent has been decision,” he around football said. his entire life, For the 5- Leonard Gordon he said, and the foot-11, 189- senior safety team atmos- pound safety phere has who dons the always been No. 24, the very central to Notre Dame his football VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer football team experience, Senior safety Leonard Gordon chose Notre Dame over southern schools like Vanderbilt and LSU reflects what he considers the which is one of the reasons and says he does not regret it. defining characteristic of the why he loves Notre Dame so University as a whole: a much. He said there is a true loud.” some of this “growing up” at program, he will serve in the vibrant community atmos- team atmosphere here both Gordon began seeing action other programs, Gordon United States Army as a phys- phere defined by strong rela- on and off the field, which on special teams during his believes that Notre Dame was ical therapist. tionships. means a lot to him. second year of eligibility and the best place for him to Vanderbilt had the academ- “My favorite part of Notre Gordon’s favorite football earned increased game repe- learn to become an adult. ics, and LSU had the high-cal- Dame is the people and the memory is of the UCLA-Notre titions as the years pro- Though the community iber football — and they both relationships that I’ve built,” Dame game in 2006 when gressed, as well as seeing aspect of Notre Dame and the play in the famed SEC — but he said. “Everyone from Brady Quinn threw a 45-yard some action as a safety last football team was enticing to when looking back, the prod- classmates to professors to pass to Jeff Samardzija with year. Gordon, the academics of the uct of the South is glad he teammates to coaches.” less than a minute left in the Gordon says that he has University were also extreme- didn’t attend either of those That attitude extends into game to cap a come-from- done a lot of maturing from ly attractive. He is both a schools. what he loves about being on behind victory. Though he the time he entered as a political science and prepro- “You can’t get better than the football team. At Notre was redshirted that year, freshman to now. Coming in fessional studies major and this, athletically or academi- Dame, he said, the coaches Gordon said it was an unbe- as a freshman, he was not as after graduation, plans on cally,” he said. “There’s noth- and players have a true com- lievable experience during his mature as he needed to be — attending Baylor University in ing like playing football at munity, which is what drew first year on campus. but that’s no longer the case. Texas to attend physical ther- Notre Dame.” him to South Bend over Baton “As a freshman, that really “I’ve really become a man apy school through the Army- Rouge and Nashville in the stands out in my mind,” he here,” he said. Baylor doctoral program. Contact Allan Joseph at first place. said. “The Stadium was so Although he may have done After graduation from this [email protected] Friday, November 20, 2009 The Observer N IRISH INSIDER page 27

CHRIS BATHON Division III transfer found right atmosphere at ND

Coming from a small school results are clear as he stands By MEAGHAN VESELIK to a much larger university smiling after another grueling Sports Writer was an adjustment, but not a Notre Dame practice, but still difficult one for Bathon. can joke around with his Defensive back Chris Playing in a stadium like teammates walking by. Bathon’s path to Notre Dame Notre Dame’s was a differ- “I thought I’d have to kick it wasn’t a direct one from his ence, though, he said. into another gear at practice, hometown of Pleasantville, “There is nothing like that to show myself to the other N.Y. But after playing football in size at Carnegie Mellon,” guys, but it wasn’t like that,” at Division III Carnegie Mellon Bathon said. he said. “Everyone treats you as a college freshman, Bathon However, his experience just as well. You earn your knew transferring to Notre playing there prepared him respect from the other players Dame and trying out for the well to try out for the Irish and they earn yours. Irish squad was right for him. team. Everyone starts to realize who “Football was a big deal in “I was not imtimidated,” he you are and that you can high school, and it wasn’t too said. “Playing at Carnegie play.” different at Carnegie Mellon,” Mellon got rid of any nerves Although he is a walk-on, Bathon said. “I wanted to take that I had. It was a big adjust- Bathon has found that the a chance and come here, try ment but nothing that I could- friendships made on the Irish out and I don’t regret it. I n’t handle. I was pretty confi- team are some of his most don’t know what I’d do with- dent coming from Carnegie valuable. out football.” Mellon and found I stacked up “Everyone here is my best In high school, Bathon well athletically.” friend,” he said. “Scholarship, played both quarterback and The walk-on process did not recruit, walk-on — doesn’t safety, starting three of his phase Bathon much, either. matter. These guys are my four years. Close with his Coming in as a sophomore, he closest friends.” teammates and from a small found himself no more nerv- When faced with the ques- town, many of his former ous than he would have been tion of what his life will be teammates, coaches, friends had he been at Notre Dame a once the season closes, and neighbors still kept tabs year earlier, he said. Bathon could only shake his on him, first at Carnegie “Football is something I’ve head in wonder. VANESSA GEMPIS/The Observer Mellon and now at Notre played my whole life,” he “I don’t know what life will Senior defensive back Chris Bathon began his college career at Dame. said. be like without football,” he Carnegie Mellon before transferring to Notre Dame. “It’s a big deal in my town to Bathon said the goal of don- said. “I’m happy things play Division I at a school,” ning the Irish blue and gold worked out the way they did. three years at Notre Dame, going to remember all the Bathon said. “Everyone from was a lifelong dream. It’s just football. At the end of and two seasons on the team, friends I’ve made here, the home follows me, will send “I’ve always been driven to the day, I realize I’m playing as well as the friends he has ones I see every day. The guys me e-mails. I have four play Notre Dame football, and Notre Dame football and it’s a made, with him for the rest of I’ve built up a relationship younger siblings and they’re this was my chance,” Bathon dream come true.” his life. with, the ones I go out with always telling me of someone said. His plans for when he leaves “It’s been an experience I’m and hang out with. It’s been a asking them about me or just And when the time came the familiar grounds of Notre never going to forget,” Bathon dream come true.” keep[ing] up with Notre Dame sophomore year, Bathon was Dame are working in the trad- said. “Sometimes I have to football. It’s been a great ready to take whatever the ing field closer to home and to stop and get it back in my Contact Meaghan Veselik at experience.” tryouts threw at him. The his family. But he will take his head that I’ve done this. I’m [email protected] Photo Illustrations by ANDREA ARCHER and IAN GAVLICK