Irish Senior Bound

The Notre Dame fighting Irish have made a decision about the opening day starter on Saturday September 3rd against the University of South Florida. The quarterback drama has finally concluded and produce enough results to name a starter in senior Dayne Crist.

The battle was extremely tight and was ultimately a coaches decision. Crist and Tommy Rees had incredible off season improvements but it was his (Crist) toughness that put him over Rees.

Toughness Crist had to obtain was an un-forgettable experience. Not only did he have a season ending knee injury on October 30th last season against Tulsa (A game in which the Irish) but he also had that knee also got infected.

This set back only determined Crist to rehab harder and complete his goal. The rehab for anyone is increasingly painful but had to be even worse for Crist, who is 6"4 and 235 pounds. Putting enormous pressure on his knees every-time he takes the snap.

This choice wasn't any easy decision, "but one I was excited to make" says Head Coach Brian Kelly. As this choice carries some heavy weight, it can carry massive influence on the future.

The immediate future; the season to be had. The upcoming future; recruiting classes. The legacy of the Kelly tenure, whether its retuning the Irish and returning to glory or bringing back the toughness, competition, and crowds that shake down the thunder.

We all must wait and see if Kelly's decision will pay off, but the anxiety of fans are gradually being increased. Just the anxiety of fans is enough pressure for anyone to handle, but if your the quarterback Crist, you must excel in that pressure and lead your team to victory.

The Irish fans are shaking down the thunder. Its up to the players to wake up the echos and bring the past of winning with honor and tradition. The play like a champion sign will be hit again and the helmets will shine will golden redemption.

The stadium will shake and roar with cheers. The bands will sound, coaches sounding off, and players standing humble before the students. As the Irish march down the line and the players leave and take glory. Ol' Notre Dame will return to glory.

By: Eric Monahan
CollegeSports-fans.com Notre Dame Correspondent