THE IRISH BROGUE

Just Off The Road To Glory?!

2009-12-22T13:21:00.002-05:00

Let's pause for a bit of levity:

IRISH CONFESSIONAL

An Irishman goes into the confessional box after years of being away from the Church. There's a fully equipped bar with Guinness on tap. On the other wall is a dazzling array of the finest cigars and chocolates. Then the priest comes in.

"Father, forgive me, for it's been a very long time since I've been to confession, but I must first admit that the confessional box is much more inviting than it used to be."

The priest replies: "Get out. You're on my side."

Brian Kelly has to be happy with the bevy of veterans, talented youngsters upcoming and incoming, and assistant coaches yet to be announced from his stable of cadre mentors (glad he kept Alford) that will make-up Notre Dame football for 2010. There's experience in every position, a locker-room that will have a lot of depth, and a winnable schedule.

And--a student body, alumni, and national fan-base very excited about getting the Irish back onto the Road to Glory; they've been in a ditch for years, but now not far off the winning highway that heads to the BCS championship.

Kelly's never-shy explosive offense and well-known effective half-time adjustments may be just what the doctor ordered, or, in the case of ND, what the Holy Cross fathers and brothers have prayed for these past several years.

I like this guy, his attitude and personality; both winning, something we haven't seen since the coaching days of Lou Holtz. It's in the air.

Nix and Collinsworth are in, a few may be out, and more to come aboard. Such is the nature of recruiting the way it's presently set up. Can February be far beyond.

Of course it's early, too early for celebration--but, this after-all is a season of joy and we should look forward to a fall season with joy, as well as hope.

Merry Christmas to all.

--Wee Leprechaun

This Kelly Is Not Green

2009-12-13T15:52:00.001-05:00

Well, it’s over and Notre Dame has a new head football coach; some say, a great coach.

He handled himself well at the introductory press conference and satisfied us that he intends to hit the ground with a winning attitude.

It was refreshing to hear an Irish head mentor devoid of arrogance or bravado…or meaningless themes.

This new guy has the name, the experience, the winning record, the proven ability, and vision to get ND out of the ditch, onto the highway, and back into the national championship chase. It’s called The Road To Glory.

By our reckoning, Brian Kelly has as many years of head coaching at the collegiate level as do Messrs. Weis, Willingham, Davie, Faust (and throw in O’Leary) combined. And, for a change of pace a helluva lot better win/lost record than those other guys.

We are told that Andrew Hendrix might be shaky about trying to break into Kelly’s offense formula. Hope not. But, the new coach should go out there anyway and find another recruit QB who fits his system.

He also needs to talk to Chris Martin and Seantrel Henderson as soon as possible. There are others too. We’ll find out a lot about Kelly’s recruiting prowess in the clutch.

Can he hold onto Cierre Wood, Shaq Evans, and a few others who don’t anticipate much, if any playing time. Hafis Williams among them.

We believe that he should take John Goodman, tell the freshman that he will play QB in the Spring and perhaps in the Fall, as well. Goodman is a superb athlete with a strong arm and fast feet for a big guy. He could be a real surprise.

There will be some shake-ups in positions and depth and a new coaching cadre to support Brian Kelly. We can’t think of any of Weis’ charges who should be retained. We do, however, have good feelings for Verducci and Alford. Good luck to them. Hey, how about bringing in Tim Brown to work with the receivers?

And, wouldn’t it be great to see Kelly green jerseys on the lads against Purdue?!

--Wee Leprechaun

New ND Coach: Our Two Cents

2009-12-01T14:00:00.003-05:00

The search for a new Irish football mentor has begun and could end as early as this weekend.

Bob Stoops. Thus, says many "informed" scribes. Not a bad choice.

Neither would messrs. Dungy or Gruden, but those possibilities seem to be beyond the grasp of Jack Swarbrick. Too bad.

Brian Kelly.

He gets a lot of votes.....but not ours.

We would like to see a long-time head coach with a proven record of winning, recruiting, and leadership that motivates his players. A good man with the media, as well.

Someone like:

* Mike Riley of Oregon State or

* Kirk Ferentz of Iowa or

* Jeff Tedford of California

However or whomever, we hope the Irish get it right this time after the most recent terrible three bummers.

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

Worst Coaching in Notre Dame History

2009-11-25T12:51:00.000-05:00

We had two versions of this week's 'Brogue written and scrapped.

What-the-hell is there to say that hasn't been said about the final nail to be placed in Charlie Weis' coaching-at-Notre-Dame coffin?

It's enough to know that his five-year record (and the deplorable stats) rank him at the very bottom among the all-time mentors.

What a cruel and painful joke he played on the University, its students, its alumni, and its many fans across the country and beyond with a coaching performance that would have been scoffed at in ankle-biter ranks.

It is our hope that he can curtail his whinings and excuses--and show some class and dignity on the way out of the campus and South Bend.

No free shave here.

Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

Charlie Can't Offer What ND Football Requires

2009-11-15T00:10:00.006-05:00

Coach Weis was quick with a rationale for Notre Dame's loss to Pittsburgh. He mumbled something about a careless block that set the Irish back when they were about to make a run--or pass--to victory over the 2 and 3 star Panthers. Get real.

Charlie, Charlie. ND lost this game in the first half when its high-octane offense could only muster 3 points on the board, and didn't do much better in the third quarter. It was when Pitt had to look to an unseasoned third-string defensive back in the fourth quarter that messrs.
Clausen, Tate, and Floyd came alive. Before that, the team was sleeping and you were at the switch with a look of "what can I do."

There is no defense for the poor performance of the Irish D--line, linebackers, and secondary; that bunch is quite bad, especially against the pass. El Stinko! Let's face it, the much-hyped BSmith and MTeo are average at best. The pass rush and coverage are an embarrassment.

And, then there is the dubious duo on offense: Duncan and Young, big and tall, and bad; bad, like they can't block when the chips are down. Pathetic. Their lack of speed, strength, and athleticism have hurt the Irish throughout the season.

Well, what's it going to be--8 and 4, 7 and 5, or 6 and 6 and another trip to Hawaii?

Regardless, Weis should be sent packing. And, stop feeling sorry for a multi-millionaire who owns some of Notre Dame's worst stats and records. He will have had five years to make a positive impact on the program--and the impact will end up being a negative thud.

Not a sermon, just an opinion about a 6-4 team that was supposed to be 9-1 at this point.

--Wee Leprechaun

No Need To Ask, Charlie, The Bell Tolls For You

2009-11-10T11:40:00.002-05:00

Notre Dame lost to the Naval Academy again!

Are you kidding me?

Let's hope Charlie Weis can guide the Irish to wins over Pitt, UConn, and Stanford--however unlikely that appears judging from his onfield mentoring to date.

Then, before a lesser bowl game--if that is in the cards: Fire Him!

Give Verducci a shot at running the team for that one game.

Whether they finish the regular season 9-3, 6-6, or whatever, ND is never going the final distance, a national championship, with the not-so-college-football-Weisman at the helm.

Let's take him at his word upon taking the head coaching duties: "If we don't win a national championship in five years, fire me."

So, Jack Swarbrick, do it.

Look, we've watched the games, listened to Weis after victory or defeat, reviewed his record and rhetoric, hear the cries of pained Irish faithful, and read the myriad fact sheets that add up to embarrassment under his leadership.

The Jersey Guy just doesn't have it for the South Bend (indeed, college) venue. Plain and simple! He'll enjoy the beach life of South Carolina as one of its wealthiest residents.

Fan the country for a big-name, big-time guy with a proven record of wins and respect as a head coach, who also can pick a staff that develops its players into champions, not naysayers and apologists.

Believe me, a guy like this won't have trouble recruiting top-notch talent, who are also top-notch students.

Go Irish!

--Wee Leprechaun

Miscellany Meanderings

2009-11-05T14:34:00.002-05:00

God bless the Naval Academy. The young men from Annapolis will give Notre Dame their toughest struggle, win or lose, and that includes the game against USC. We've seen them play twice this season and they are good on both sides of the ball. Fortunately for The Fighting Irish, the Midshipmen won't be good enough, but messrs. Clausen, Tate and Floyd will be. ND 35 Navy 10 (hey, we did well projecting last week's score: Irish 42 WSU 17).

More Projections since we will have to watch the game on a small screen at the track, between the Breeder's Cup racing card: Zenyatta in the Classic with some long-shot bucks on Richard's Kid and Einstein. Interactif all the way in one of the lesser races. If you're so inclined and parochial Mine That Bird (once owned by a couple of NDAlums) is in the Classic.

Fate is the hunter. Dayne Crist is down and who knows what that means come Spring and, for that matter, long term. Watch Mike Anello closely, he's just not there anymore. There is chatter that either Hendrix or Rees will enroll early. But, you know, don't count out John Goodman. He could be the guy come next fall.

Once again, we looked at the 2010 schedule and once again got a retinal hemmorhage and sour stomach. The good folks from NDNation had it right: Greed and Cowardice. Jack Swarbrick should be ashamed.

We keep hearing from a friend of recruit Chris Martin that the big guy will be in a ND uniform for the 2010 season despite rumors to the contrary. Queries also suggest that Brandon Linder and Matt James are very high on the Irish and are leaning toward South Bend.

Watch special teams closely and you'll come to the same conclusion as this perch--Zeke Motta is an outstanding athlete and player. Big and bright future ahead.

One last point to ponder: There is a horse, fleet of foot, named "Midshipman" in one of the Breeder's Cup races. Drop a double-sawbuck on this good looker. What the hell!

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

Cougars or Pussy Cats Against ND Defense?

2009-10-26T15:55:00.004-05:00

Yup, another close one.

Also same scenario: BC QB shreds ND Secondary; this from a 25-year-old freshman who has the arm strength of tossed linguini and the spiral of a wobbly duck shot in flight. Nevertheless, the Irish DBs, with the help of a timid Tenuta pass rush, gave praise to yet another opposing no-name Quarterback. Schminskie, or whatever.

The upcoming thrower from Washington State--Tool, Tuel, Tuoel, Towel (something like that)--is on the threshhold of greatness thanks to NDs pass defense, which is still mired with the bottom-dwellers.

Notre Dame is now back in the Top 25 (why?) and WSU is 1-6 with over-all stats that are the collective laugh on the Pacific Coast.

Don't count the boys from Pullman out of the San Antonio contest (and a small crowd, no less).

NDs Pass Defense should keep the Cougars somewhat close to at least the fourth quarter.

Also, let's hope that Kyle Rudolph "returns" to action; Shaq Evans and Deion Walker get a few passes thrown their way; Matt Romine gets an opportunity to sub for Paul Duncan when the latter continues to block poorly; Mike Anello regains 2007 form on STs; and, finally, Charlie Weis admits some embarrassment over the 2010 schedule.

Score Prediction: The Cougars should put a couple of pass TDs on the Scoreboard and come close enough for a field goal. The Irish offense should be in full mode with at least 5 Tds.

Notre Dame: 41 Washington State: 17

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

NDs Defense Makes For No Gimmes

2009-10-21T13:33:00.001-05:00

It was predictable: Notre Dame's porous-of-the-porous defense allowed yet another opposing QB to perform like a Heisman candidate. Matt Barkley, we salute you (and young Mr. Shinskie, Schminskie, or whatever the hell your name is, there is no reason why you won't shine against this bunch when Boston College comes to South Bend.

It is a good thing that the Irish were dropped from the top 25; they didn't belong there in the first place.

The Notred Dame pass defense, which has been ranked with the bottom-feeders since game one, continues to stink up the playing field, especially the once-heralded secondary with fingers pointed at Harrison Smith and Darrin Walls. There are no kudos either for the DLine or LB Cadre (why do we keep praising BSmith and Teo?).

It would be embarrassing if the Irish were ranked up there with the good teams, the complete teams, the well-coached teams.

Notre Dame faithful and other well-meaning, but wishful-thinking, fans predict a 10-2 season despite the onfield performance. Ah, "to see ourselves as others see us."

There are no gimmes remaining, including Washington State. They have a quarterback, don't they?!

Hats continue to go off to Jimmy Clausen for his stellar play, despite a shaky, often-struggling offensive line. By the way, folks are asking where Shaq Evans was for the USC game. Good question, but here's a better one: why wasn't Matt Romine subbed for the often-beaten Paul Duncan?

Well, to hell with it. The Irish just can't win the big one, beat the elite, or stay relatively high in the rankings. So far that's the story. Unless he's canned, Charlie Weis' salary remains intact. There are a lot of "unlesses, ifs, and buts" about this team and its coach.

Let's add a "Maybe." The Irish beat the Eagles, which hasn't happened for sometime, then maybe, just maybe, Notre Dame football faithful can start looking up with heads held high.

Maybe.

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

Do USC What I Mean?

2009-10-14T14:00:00.003-05:00

If the Men of Troy are to be beaten by the Lads of South Bend, Notre Dame must score a helluva lot of points and somehow, someway hold the University of Southern California from not scoring a helluva lot of points.

Fair Assessment?

The Irish defense, which so far has been very offensive, needs a strong dose of luck from the get-go rather than mustering it in the waning minutes. No mean feat for this side of the ball.

Charlie Weis will tell you that the Trojans have the best offensive line in the country. Brain and brawn. How can that be when Pete Carroll is said to recruit giants like:

Abdul Hasheen Abba Ali (formerly Richard Smith until he found religion, although listing
6'9" 325 Pounds OL his church preference as "red brick").

Abdul thinks Sherlock Holmes is a housing project, and that Taco Bell is a Mexican Telephone Company. On his entrance form, he lists his IQ as 20-20. He insisted, but failed, to get the number 32 on his jersey to match the score on his college entrance exam.

Just kidding!

Despite not having the services of the great Michael Floyd, the Irish have the best chance in several years to whip USC, backed by the accurate arm of Jimmy Clausen and the "good hands man," Golden Tate. Add Allen and Rudolph to the mix, as well.

Final note: Messrs. Tenuta and Brown, it's about time for showtime. Wadda ya got fer us?

Nothing more to be said...nothing more to be asked.

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

The Luck (and Pluck) of the Irish

2009-10-04T10:32:00.005-05:00

They erect a statue of Knute Rockne for all to see on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. Holy Mary, Mother of God, is that a smile/smirk on his face saying farewell to the faithful leaving the IrishHusky football game--a contest that gave all who watched it a retinal hemorrhage and atrial fibrillation.

This year's installment of ND gridsters recalls the glory days, the near misses and victory in the dying seconds, which would prompt reporters to later write: "The Luck of the Irish!" (for better or worse).

This great tradition has been revived.

It's exciting, it's exhaustive, it's all the damn ex's you can think of when watching ND play.

On the one hand, Notre Dame should have won this game going away, but ended up with field goals after knocking on the door five times. Yet, Washington had this game won in the waning moments and gave it away to remarkable goal line stands by a not-very-good Irish defense (check national stats and rankings this week).

Go figure!

The Fighting Irish did not stop Jake Locker, but, wait, they did stop him...when it mattered.

Forget it.

The Irish are 4-1 with a big round of applause to messrs. Clausen, Tate, and Rudolph. Charlie Weis did find someone to step up, following Michael Floyd's injury.

It's Golden.

This team deserves a bye and so do all the fans of the lads from South Bend.

There's no reason why ND should beat USC come October 17.....but they probably will.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

FORECAST: Lotsa Rain, Cold, and Locker

2009-09-28T13:42:00.006-05:00

We told you last week that the Notre Dame football team is not very good, not bad, just not very good, with the exceptions of Jimmy Clausen, Golden Tate, Armando Allen (when he's playing), Kyle Rudolph, the offensive line (from time to time), and Darius Fleming and Kyle McCarthy (from time to time).

The pass defense stinks. Charlie Weis really never discusses it and the tame news media do not bring it up??

Truly, they are heading for a 7-5 season if Weis and his defense mentors don't find a way to rush the passers and cover the receivers, thus potential losses to Washington, USC, Pittsburgh, and Boston College; and, possibly 6-6 with another upset by Navy.

The Irish are so far down in the national pass defense rankings that only whale shit and one or two teams are lower. The DL, LBs, DBs are constantly out of sync and have been since the first game. Why they are so easily schemed, adjusted to, and put up big yardage against by virtually anonymous QBs falls not only on the talent but on the coaching.

In Washington, the Irish will face the best quarterback on their schedule: Jake Locker, who can do it all.

Basically, this is a one man team, the Huskies; where goeth Locker so goes the lads from Seattle.

The weather forecast at this point for Saturday is rain and cold in South Bend, nothing new for Washington. It rains and it's often cold year-round in the Pacific Northwest. No problemo!

We'll see what it means for the pass-happy Irish and AA on the ground.

This game is easy to handicap--rain or shine, wethinks.

Stop Jake Locker and win big; fail to do so and go to the locker room losers.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

Half a Pint is Better Than None?

2009-09-20T12:56:00.006-05:00

Please, no more talk about being in the top 25 or a BCS bowl. Keep your fingers crossed that Notre Dame will better last year's 6-6 regular season mark.

First of all, the Irish football team is not very good. If it was, then we would applaud the lads' performance on both sides of the ball, not just the offense and, let's face it it, over-all, the coaching is suspect, too.

Notre Dame's defense stinks. It's an embarrassment. And, the high and mighty Jon Tenuta, with enabling from Charlie Weis, should step down from the box, stand and stomp on the sideline, and show some play-calling prowess.

Hey, where's the argument: save, Kyle McCarthy, the secondary is pretty piss poor, as well.

After three games, the special teams in all facets are below average.

Thank God for the offense, especially Jimmy Clausen and Armando Allen, not to mention the offensive line when that bonehead Sam Young isn' being penalized (Lou Holtz would have jerked him immediately and shouted him down to size).

Charlie Weis has shown real skills as an offensive coordinator (probably where he belongs fulltime), but a bust as a head coach; to wit, team's lack of discipline, team's lack of adjustments to opponents offense, and a lack of guts to yank players for mistakes and penalty miscues.

Hell no, we're not calling for his ouster, that would be too advantageous to Charlie. It is laughable that fans say he is on "the hotseat." Shit, he's in the cat-bird seat, pulling in four big ones annually and 20 million if bought out. Welcome to the sun and surf of South Carolina.

Yes, The Irish beat the Spartans and the Wolf Pack, but we remain empty of spirit and enthusiasm. The absence of Michael Floyd (let's hope he is not injury-prone) leaves a very, very big hole in the ND offense.

Sure, Golden Tate is still a threat, but can you always count on his hands? Cause for concern?!

As for the Purdue game under lights, we hope Weis and company can read the field of play, offensively and defensively, and stop once and for all, making no-name quarterbacks big-game performers.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

IT WAS MU's TATE, NOT ND's TATE!

2009-09-13T07:58:00.003-05:00

A familiar scenario was played out in Ann Arbor. With three minutes to play, the game belonged to Notre Dame, and the Irish instead gave it to Michigan on both sides of the ball. Yes, Charlie Weis' coaching, with a lot of help from his players (especially those on defense guided by Jon Tenuta) crumbled in the clutch. No excuses!

Some would say that the game was won by UM when it ran back a kick-off for a touchdown. Why was there not a safety back there for ND (and we don't mean Tausch).

And, it was clear for all to see that the small, skinny Wolverine freshman QB, first name of Tate, outfoxed Jon Tenuta and his defensive charges time and time again. Sure, Jimmy Clausen had a pretty good day, but nothing compared to Forcier.

ND's front four were pathetic and, like the Nevada game, could not find ways to make tackles at the line, or behind the line of scrimmage. The linebacking corps was non-existent for the most part. Is it fair to assume that Te'o went home after the first Michigan play? And, God bless 'em, the heralded secondary simply put was "outgunned" by young Forcier and his receivers.

This was the most important game on the schedule in our judgment and on the road, as well. Much to prove by the "Number 18" Irish.

And the proof was there, very familiar, Charlie's teams can break your heart if you're an Irish fan.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

QUICK TAKE: Wolf Pack Trapped And Bagged; Now Irish Hunt The Wolverines

2009-09-08T21:24:00.001-05:00

A Wolf by any other name is, well, a wolverine (actually, not the same animal family); but, what the hell, they're both on Notre Dame's endangered/threatened list of opponents. However, the Pack won't be back, They are now extinct, having been shot down 35-0 by a high-powered aerial assault by the Irish. By the way, we of The Irish Brogue feel pretty good about our pre-game analysis (ND passing attack wins the game) and by our score prediction (ND 31 UNR 10).

We left that game with only one concern and it can be rectified this weekend against the University of Michigan. The DL rarely made a tackle or assisted in one. If that flaw is corrected, the Wolverines will go down like the Wolf Pack.....no excuses, just apologies.

(Side Note: Listening to excerpts of Ohio State's current QB, following the Buckeye's narrow and unconvincing win over Navy, we are reminded of a satirical essay James Thurber wrote decades ago and became must reading in freshman English texts. It was called University Days about a Buckeye football player, and apparently not much has changed since then. OSU players not only fracture opponents bones, but syntax as well and these fellas are not masters of rhetorical sophistication and, in some cases: The English language in thought and action, as well).

It is a bit of a surprise that Western Michigan performed poorly against the Wolverines, but make no mistake Nevada has a better team on both sides of the ball than does UWM and category by category ND ranks over UM. The Irish are catching the Maize & Blue early, before they show their real winning colors.

There is no stopping the Irish passing attack, the running game is very promising, and the defense--with some adjustments--may bend, but there is too much talent to ensure it won't break.

We'll give Michigan a pair of touchdowns and Notre Dame four. ND 28 UM 14.

Let's end this with an Irish Ditty.

So Paddy asks Murphy: "Why do scuba divers always fall backwards off their boats?"

To which Murphy replies, "Well, if they fall forward they'd still be in the fuckin' boat!"

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

INSTANT EDITORIAL: Don't Be Afraid Of The Big Bad Wolves

2009-09-02T08:16:00.000-05:00

"Football must succeed at Notre Dame!"

Thus spoke Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick to the Chicago Tribune and beyond the Windy City.

A word to the Weis is sufficient. Charlie knows for whom the bell tolls. He need not ask.

So much for ND sports politics.

It is our opinion and that of our western correspondent who makes frequent treks from his home in Lake Tahoe to the "Biggest Little City in the World" that, if the Irish can keep Nevada's QB Colin Kaepernick scrambling and seized behind the line of scrimmage, and RB Luke Lippincott et al struggling and stopped short of the line, tell Fergus O'Casey it's time for a pint and celebration talk.....the wolf hunt is over.

Yes, the Reno community hasn't been this excited about football since the decades-ago days of QB Heath and most of the other University of Nevada starters who kept winning until it was alleged that most of them never attended classes, yet got good grades and a whole helluva lot of money to spend in the casinos and those beckoning houses with the little red lights.

Now, UNR is back to football prominence and everything is on the up and up and very laudable since Chris Ault has been head coach these many years. This is a damn good team and no one should be ashamed that the Irish are opening the season against them. There will be some 3,000 Pack fans to cheer their team on.....but to no avail.

The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame have re-united with pigskin tradition long out of grasp. Make no mistake, the lads are ready to play like champions and, by God, be coached like champions.

This is a talented squad, deep and determined. They have speed and strength where they're needed and a cadre of good hands men who will be open and looking for balls tossed by Jimmy Clausen, not of limousine fame, but of leadership and dead aim.

Okay, Charlie Weis is on the hot seat, and that is where he deserves to be. A big win that's impressive on both sides of the ball, will bring him down to a much more comfortable place.

Notre Dame: 39 Nevada: 10

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

Six And Six - Got New Tricks

2009-08-19T10:15:00.000-05:00

Last season there were many times when Charlie Weis' platter of plays smelled so much like old folks odor that even vultures wouldn't land.

Also, the Notre Dame coach was so transparent, through his assistant Mike Haywood, in his play-calling that opposing players never had to dance in the dark. They just cut in, as it were, and confused our OL and tripped the light fantastic over our runners. President Obama would like to have such a see-thru policy. Oh, Knute, wherefore were thou?

There are realistic ripples of recovery coming out of training camp and even elsewhere. Touchdown Jesus paid well for those so-inclined thoroughbred racing handicappers (we were among them) at Louisiana Downs over weekend. A setback, according to some purists came a few days ago, however, when an ESPN scribe named Weis one of College Football's top five villains, principally because he's an arrogant bastard. He is, in our judgment, far from villains top shit heads, but right up there with the rude, crude and socially unacceptable mentors, headed by messrs. Meyer and Paterno. Hey, their doing alright!

We continue to be impressed with the coaching and chattering of Charlie's assistants, and the low key approach he is taking to voicing forecasts, forebodings and forewarnings. Notre Dame has a damn good team that can run and pass the field and defend it from foes, beginning with Nevada.

Wolfpack coach Chris Ault's vaunted Pistol offense, which is designed for quick strikes, can be forced to draw blanks by simply stopping one player Period! Yes, they have some good rushers and receivers, but the Pack wins or loses with quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who can pass, run, and receive. He is a good one, yes, maybe the best the Irish will face this year. Nevada is counting on a weak Notre Dame defense. That's the word from the Reno campus.

Enter Jon Tenuta and his cunning plots. The stars are aligned, his charges are into the schemes, and the Pistol offense meets gun control in the form of relentless blitzes.

Faithful, we are going to take a break from quick strikes and give you a quick bit of levity:

Two Mormon mission men go up to a house in South Bend and knock on the front door
of this Irish Catholic home.
It's opened by little Fergus, a ten-year-old boy who has a lighted cigar in one hand, a glass of whiskey in the other, and a Penthouse magazine tucked under his arm.
One of the proselytizing adults says, "son, is your mom or dad home?"
The loaded lad replies: "now, what the fuck do you think!"

Notre Dame's offense, including that much-maligned line corps, looks less like a 6-6 team and more like a solid group with a bag of tricks on both sides of the ball. While Jimmy Clausen was saved from handsomeness by a small pie-face, he has a very nice looking passing arm, evidenced in camp and a fine bunch of receivers to catch those tosses. Bombs away! It is going to be hard to keep Shaquelle Evans on the sidelines and John Goodman, as well, so predicts NDs offensive guru, who also is very pleased with Jonas Gray if the running game stalls with Armando Allen in the lead.

Yes, this is the best camp ND has had for years. Barring significant injuries, the lads and coaches have an attitude and focus that can't be denied: The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame are going to kick some ass this fall.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

The Echoes Are Much Closer

2009-08-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

"Balls," cried the Queen, "if I had two, I'd be King!"

The King only laughed and said, "show me." (That sounds familiar).

Enter Prince Shembo. Well, next year, and we're delighted. (BTW, we're still pissed that Fauria left without a fight from Swarbrick and Weis...and they sure as hell didn't).

This season, it's all about The Schedule. At least, it seems to be, with a smattering of chattering about the offensive line, the running game, and Jimmy Clausen's leadership.

As for the schedule, it is not a cupcake. Remember this Notre Dame team was 6-6 in the regular season. They have a lot to prove and 12 opponents who are capable of proving that the Fighting Irish are about the same as last year. If you want to see a soft schedule, certainly outside the conference, take a look at Florida's opponents, beginning with Charleston Southern.

Friday, Charlie Weis opened preparation, leading to the Nevada game; don't take the Wolfpack lightly, they can throw and run with the best of 'em.

Coach Weis was more subdued, less expectant, without themes or predictions and, frankly, the look and actions of a hot-seater. These are all good characteristics for a mentor whose abilities so far have been outshone by his arrogance.

That said, don't be so humble and modest, Charlie, you're not that great.

We think, however, he's ready to get into the college game, bigtime!

And, he has the manpower to do just that.

This from an e-mailer, Boots Malone: "I think the stars are finally aligned in Notre Dame's direction (it's been more than 20 years since I've seen that formation). Weis seems to be ready to take this team to the next level, a legitimate shot at the Big Casino, an excellent cadre of coaches backing him up, and a helluva lot of experience and talent, the likes of which we have not seen for many years. What's your take on the coming season?"

Irish Brogue: We have no argument with your comments. It was clear to the media and anyone listening in and observing that the assistant coaches are coaching with considerable latitude, the players know they have a real chance to run the table, and CW is acting like a head mentor who also just happens to be the playcaller.

Look, we don't have to tell our readers and the ND faithful that the Irish passing game should be "bombs away," and that opponents who pass against the blue and gold secondary do so at their own peril. Those two components will match any similar tandems in the country.

Well, not all are believers.

Another e-mailer, Mexican Hat, writes: "I just don't see a better than 8-4 or 9-3. The OL has been an embarrassment and the same guys are in the trenches. The DL is too young and there are too many questions regarding the linebackers. Also, I am not convinced of Clausen's leadership capabilities nor his positive passing game after game behind Young, Olsen, et al.

I think this is going to be a real downer of a season. How am I wrong?"

Irish Brogue: Ah, Sombrero, you of little faith. Your out-of-touch comments make us wonder if you think cooking and fucking are cities in China. Talent trumps experience on the DL; both are present in the linebacking crew; and the offensive line, all beefed up and focused (not to mention under the right kind of coach) will help JC on a path to stardom.

We also feel that either of the freshmen kickers, especially Turk, can move right in and handle those duties like what you expect from, but have not seen in years, a Notre Dame kicking game.

Our big surprise players for the coming season: walk-ons Bobby Burger and Matt Hernandez. These guys can flat-out compete with the regulars and will see mucho PT ; James Aldridge, a position where he belongs and will perform; and Sergio Brown, when he's in the secondary, things happen. Positively!

Scuttlebutt from our guy who remains in South Bend: Keep your eye on Anthony McDonald and Deion Walker. If they don't see some light at the end of the proverbial tunnel, one heads west and the other goes east. That's news we don't like to hear. Fingers crossed.

--Wee Leprechaun and Old Shillelagh

We'll Be Out Of Commission For A Few Weeks

2009-05-24T09:25:00.001-05:00

ND Did Not Spring Forward; Will They Fall Back?

2009-04-24T08:38:00.001-05:00

Sorry, we're tardy, but we detoured via West Virginia and onto the Charles Town Classic....not to mention the fishing streams of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. If Researcher is a late entry into the Kentucky Derby, put a few dollars on this sleek thoroughbred; hold the big bucks for I Want Revenge or Quality Road.

Be that as it may, the million-dollar race in the arms of Mountain Mama was a helluva lot more fun and better to watch than Charlie Weis' chicken-shit "please-don't-get-injured" scrimmage, masquerading as a college football ball game. It would have been a better test, certainly more entertaining, if Charlie Weis' youngsters played Lou Holtz's geriatrics; old folks odor vs. Duck, Duck, whatever!

Look, talk to two folks and you'll get three opinions about the B-G "game." They are all valid, and none is worth a plugged nickel. Frankly, the game format told us very little about the over-all quality of the team. Sure, Robert Blanton and Ethan Johnson were outstanding, but we already knew that. The running game should not be gauged until the Wolfpack lines up against Allen and company. Too many players were held out; most should have been practicing from the outset of camp. Mike Ragone is still in need of healing, but Fauria is ready for downs. The offensive line is, well, a "wait-and-see." Come fall, we're going to learn a lot about Latina and Verducci.

This team has a lot of talent, speed, and mucho experience. It all adds up to Depth. How Charlie Weis handles and directs these lads is the big question we have, and we did not get an answer at the spring event. Add quality assistant coaches to quality player depth, however, and ND will have an impressive winning season and Weis will hold onto his job. We are still not sold on his ability to head coach, and truly believe that CW and the team would fare much better if he calls plays from the upstairs booth. He just does not interact and manage effectively from the sidelines. What better reason--or, excuse--to head to the top of the stands than standing (and hurting) on the grass with bum knees!

The Defense will stand the test of time over 12 games. No question. The offense will be governed by these keys:
--Clausen's arm
--Tate's hands
--Allen's legs
--Walker's foot

One last note: despite Weis's humiliation of Montana during practice by "trying out other non-QBs for the third signal-caller slot", Joe's boy showed up Charlie during the B-G test, looking better than either Clausen or Crist!

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

A Lad Brought Up Right

2009-04-09T11:56:00.003-05:00

While shopping in a food store, two nuns happened to pass by the beer. The first nun said it sure would be nice to enjoy a beer. The second nun answered that indeed, yes, it would be very nice to have one, but that she didn't feel comfortable about buying it.

The first nun replied that she could handle that without a problem and picked up a six-pack and took it to the cashier.

The cashier had a surprise look on his face, so the nun said, "we use beer for washing our hair, a sort of shampoo, if you will."

Without blinking an eye, the cashier reached under the counter, pulled out a package of
pretzel sticks and placed them in the bag with the beer, saying "the curlers are on the house."

xxxxxxx

--We'll be back after the Easter holiday.

--Keep your eye on Bobby Burger; this walk-on will work into game play.

Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh

SPRING Into Action

2009-03-23T18:43:00.009-05:00

March 26, 2009

One colleague returns from South Bend, the other remains after day four. Here's a few observations about the daily comings, goings, and doings at Notre Dame's spring sessions:

--There is no question that the new coaches (not to mention Bryant Young) are making a big difference in the attitude and aggressiveness of the players under their charge. Make no mistake, and it is a long time coming, that the lads, be they offense or defense, finally complement in hunger and desire the ascent in the win column and the polls that the new mentors expect and have projected. It's there; it wasn't last year. Watch out, USC!!

--The three Smiths--Brian, Toryan, and Scott--are listed as the Saturday Saints at LB. That should change when Fleming and Te'o are ready to go (also Filer and Motta).

--Don't have a good feeling for Mike Ragone's comeback at least through spring. He just doesn't have that look, that gait, that aura; Kyle Rudolph surely does!

--Ethan Johnson, looking as though he was sculpted for all-American honors, will be a force to be reckoned with regardless where he ends up on the D-line. The D-line, under the new command, promises to be a big--and pleasant--surprise. Lewis-Moore another good looker. John Ryan, hard to believe, is listed as starting DE, but Kerry Neal's return (soon, we hope) will change that.

--What to do with Deion Walker and the all-arounder John Goodman. These guys look good and can play the wide receiver post. The question is: will they? And, if not, what then? Hope they will be around come September. There is so much talent at WR.

--When Darrin Walls gets up to speed and Gary Gray returns this summer, the secondary will be terrific. There are so many good players vying for so few positions. What competition! Watch Jamoris Slaughter!

--The fullback position seems to be a cause for competitive concern: Paskorz, Aldridge, Hughes? The hard-working, well-liked JC will win out in the end, with Steve P getting his share of minutes. One astute coach allowed as how ND could do nicely without a fullback!!

--Paul Duncan has caught Verducci's eye for the LT slot. It's clear to everyone. Duncan, a great high schooler from a great FB state, has been a big disappointment so far. If he can make the turn from outcast to outstanding, then we know a helluva lot about John Latina.

--He's getting no chatter, but Braxton Cave is going to push Dan Wenger very hard for the numero uno center position. Verducci likes the sophomore, as well.

--Privately, the majority of those on the field believe that Charlie Weis should be in the booth during games. He's a strategist and uncanny accurate in appraisals WHEN LEFT ALONE. He is not a players sideline coach. Unfortunately, he won't go upstairs because his pro-mentors think it is a bad idea. Kinda pathetic on CW's part.

--Golly, Molly, that Dayne Crist looks good and, what a great attitude. Clausen has the starting nod, but the other Californian is ready to go if JC slips.

XXXXXXXXX

(Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh)

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T14:41:00.002-05:00

One of our lads will be out in South Bend for Spring Practice. Check back for those reports.

Here's a little ditty to see you through:

An Irishman walks into a bar.

The bartender observes "you've got a steering wheel down your pants."

"Yeah, I know," says the red-headed fellow, "it's driving me nuts!"

Q&A With Sports Analyst Scott Christopher

2009-02-08T16:22:00.004-05:00

While I was trashing Charlie Weis two weeks ago for making himself unavailable to the media,
East Coast analyst and Notre Dame advocate Scott Christopher told me he believed it was because the embattled coach of the Irish was sitting on "something big" like possibly nabbing Manti Te'o from the clutches of USC on national signing day. But before we get into that matter with Chris, here's my first question:

The Irish Brogue: What-the-hell is going on with the ND basketball team.

Scott Christopher: First of all, when Brey lost his defense-minded assistant to Toledo, he lost his defense. Mike can't coach defense so it sticks. Also, what is clear to all, the team is not athletic, physical--they lack speed, as well. Brey is not a very good bench coach and the Irish don't have a very good bench, mostly untested for significant playing time. Hell, you can't start three white guys and win consistently! If Harangody stays, which he should, and the two transfers--along with Nash and Carleton step in and step up--ND could fare quite well in the Big East. Hopefully that so-called incoming freshman plays to his billing. As far as the rest of this year goes: 17 wins an 13 losses, enough of a margin to get them into the NIT.

The Irish Brogue: What's your take on the recruits?

Scott Christopher: With or without Te'o, I feel this is a good crop, under-rated by the "star"
gazers and ND faithful. Manti, Motta, Calabrese, and Fox are a stellar LB crew, perhaps the best freshmen tandem in many, many years. Stockton, Riddick, Watt, and Evans will see a lot of PT.
I think Stockton will be the big surprise impact. My "prediction" that ND would get Te'o was based on information from, of all sources, a non-Mormon player at BYU. He told me to go to the bank with it! Te'o, of course, will start at LB and NOT go on a mission after his freshman year.

The Irish Brogue: Who is the DL coach?

Scott Christopher: I don't have a clue. I have heard that Weis has lost out on two candidates. Shit, I wish that Zorich could handle that assisgment. He is one nasty bastard. I also hear that Charlie would be delighted if Aaron Taylor came aboard as OL/GA. No way, but Aaron would love to have that post if he could break free; he will have input. Look for a former ND O-player of recent vintage to fill that gap real soon.

The Irish Brogue: How does Notre Dame look going into spring practice?

Scott Christopher: Look, there is a lot of talent and experience on this squad. I think that the new hires on the offensive side will make a big difference, with Charlie calling plays from the booth (I hope). It's a damn shame that Sam Young is a bust at this level, but he is. Robinson looks like a big timer to me, and I think Wenger will come of age.
Tere is going to be some fierce and fine competition for O-line starting spots and at running back. You can't go wrong at TE and wide receiver. If the D-line performs in the spring, they will in the fall. I like Hafis Williams and that Lewis-Moore kid to move in. The LBs and DBs look solid to me--no matter who starts, and I see an All-American effort from Harrison Smith. This kid moves into the spot he was destined to play.

The Irish Brogue: Can ND get a wide margin of victories from its 2009 schedule?

Scott Christopher: Many feel this is a soft schedule. I don't. The Irish are coming off a 7-6 record against many of the same teams they played in 2008. However, I believe that this team can do the job and, by God, give USC a real run. I will have a better feel for wins and losses after the Blue-Gold game, but at this point: Y2009 - Notre Dame 9w/3l and a big bowl victory.

XXXXXXXX

--Old Shillelagh

Can Spring Be Far Behind?

2009-01-18T14:19:00.006-05:00

Charlie Weis remains distant from the media. If he were not faced with the responsibility of announcing personnel changes, the Irish coach would be in hiding altogether. It's probably where he belongs, however, after another dismal season, despite the "winning" record.

It isn't easy rooting for Charlie after the past two seasons of his promises unfulfilled, his arrogance that exceeds his ability, and his excuses when there are none.

But, we live and die with Notre Dame and look past CW to better days, with or without him.

Hayden Fry's positive assessment of Frank Verducci, his assistant coach some years back and now the new offensive line coach, is good enough for us. Hopefully Weis will let him do his job
in a way that will benefit the OLiners. Tony Alford also should have a positive impact on the running game if Charlie runs interference for the guy and not interference of his tutelage.

The possibilities of Bryant Young and Tom Grunhard (shaky however) as graduate assistants might be the best moves of all, thanks to Chris Zorich, who's not only thinking ahead but also thinking about what needs to be done now. The big Z, by the way, would probably make a damn fine DLine coach.

There's a lot of positive buzz on campus, among veterans toiling in the Gug, that EE Zeke Motta is going to see a lot of action in the Fall and will prove it in the Spring. Here's a projected starting line-up on Offense if you buy into what these guys are saying and, to a large extent, we do:

Jimmy Clausen, QB, and Jonas Gray, RB

Trevor Robinson, Eric Olsen, Dan Wenger, Braxton Cave, Sam Young (big year, they say) in the trenches.

Michael Floyd, Golden Tate, Deion Walker, Kyle Rudolph catching the passes.

(Mike Ragone playing a little TE and a little WR).

These same Gug-Ugh Guys couldn't agree on a starting D, but all allowed as how NDs secondary should be among the best in the nation: KMcCarthy, HSmith, Blanton, Walls and, yes, Gray and Jamoris Slaughter getting their share of PT, along with McNeil (keep your eye on Dan McCarthy).

Look for Sergio Brown and Mike Anello to form a terrific tandem besting opposing receivers on kick-offs and punts. "Excuse me, sirs, I thought you were charging water buffaloes!" They say that Anello will have a blitz just for him against the rush, designed for his speed, savvy, and devil-may-care attitude (We have been waiting for a such a defensive move. This kid's got grit).

Look for soph LBs Filer, Posluszny, and McDonald to surface way up the depth chart this Spring,
competing along with Flemming and Motta (Brian Smith will rule the linebackers).

Kapron Lewis-Moore and Sean Cwynar will start on the DLine when the Blue-Gold game ends, and don't be surprised to see hefty Brandon Newman getting his share of PT at nose tackle.

Weis has a lot of support from these young men. They do not seem to care if Charlie calls the plays from the upper deck. He does not mix much with the players on the sidelines. Corwin Brown, they say, can kick-ass from that venue.

This could be the most exciting Spring practice of Charlie Weis' ND career and one thing is certain according to a sampling of his players: He won't be mouthing thematic mottos this time around. It will be business!

--Wee Leprechaun & Old Shillelagh