ND's present level of talent, although solid, is not even in the same league as the other schools you mentioned. A difference maker at QB is the equalizer. I'll use Vince Young as an example of how a QB can basically single-handedly win a NC for school. Texas had a good team but they wouldn't have beat SC with Tommy Rees or Golson taking the snaps.
Book and Wimbush are not the answer. Hopefully, someone like Jurkovec can answer the call.