And have less than 260 yards and 10 penalties...those teams were 0-45. That is now 1-45 thanks to ND
ND didn't play scared up 17, but they played smart. When you have an opponent in a headlock a slow squeeze chokes the life out of them.
this would be an epic defensive battle, with turnovers and penalties figuring more in the final outcome than offensive fireworks. But, going in, I also knew that offensively, the long passing game gave the Dawgs a decided advantage. In fact, I felt Kirby should have pressed the long ball far more often as it seemed that two good things occurred for them...a PI penalty or completion. It was a valiant effort by the Irish secondary that held them to only one trip into the end zone. But their efforts at a balanced attack led to two good things for the Irish defense...a stuff or a sack. The first quarter score gave us all a glimpse of the defensive talent on the field....0-0.. Fortunately, the 60 seconds period surrounding the intermission was an epic blessing of riches for the Irish.
Also deserving of a bow of thanks and respect are the people of New Orleans. They have chosen to live and work there in spite of recent hardships and do so with tremendous pride in their city. They show that in the warm and consistent hospitality and welcome shown to almost every visitor to their unique and wonderful city.
Of course they had several huge drops which has been a achilles heel all year for them. Even during this game it bit them bad.
