Young, Williams, Te'o sit out Irish practice

Notre Dame tackle Sam Young, nose tackle Ian Williams and highly touted freshmen linebacker Manti Te'o did not participate in the Fighting Irish's second practice of the day.

The University of Notre Dame junior tandem of Golden Tate and Jimmy Clausen are two of 55 players on the "Watch List" for the 2009 Maxwell Award.

Manageable. Ugh. It's like describing a blind date as "nice." Sure, Notre Dame's 2009 schedule is "manageable."  The Irish are independent.  They, like everyone else in college football, want to play seven home games.  They, unlike everyone else, aren't constrained by a conference schedule handed down by the league. So yes, the schedule is manageable. That's by design and administrators...

Notre Dame transfer Joseph Fauria talked briefly about his decision to come to UCLA, his excitement to be out on the field again and UCLA's deep tight end competition. On his recruitment out of high school: "Looking back now, it probably should've been my first choice," Fauria said with a laugh. "I was really close to coming here. This is a blessing in disguise. I'm glad I'm here...

A battle ready unit must possess the raw ability, mission-specific potential, and legitimate proof that they will be successful come judgment day.  Three marquee Notre Dame positions have the pedigree, the potential, and enough proof to make Irish fans confident that a double-digit win season is possible in 2009. The receiving unit, the linebacker corps, and the cornerback group...