– Sgt Shamrock

Notre Dame defeated Rutgers 29-16 in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl played at Yankee Stadium in New York City. The Irish didn’t play their best by far but were still able to come out with the victory. Tommy Rees finished his Notre Dame career with 319 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions even though he threw into double coverage multiple times during the game. The Irish rushed for 175 yards lead by Cam McDaniel and Tarean Folston, as Notre Dame ran a primarily a two back system with George Atkinson suspended for texted at a team dinner (Yes he was really suspended for that. Brian Kelly is not messing around). The Irish defense played pretty well only allowing one touchdown and stopping the Scarlet Knights in the redzone on multiple occasions. Even without Louis Nix in the middle of the defensive line, the Irish were able to put pressure on Rutgers forcing bad passes and multiple turnovers.

The Irish finished the season at 9-4 and move into the offseason with Everett Golson back at Notre Dame. The Irish are going to be hiring a new offensive and defensive coordinator in the coming weeks, and we will all be awaiting Stephon Tuitt’s decision on whether or not to return to Notre Dame for his senior season, or declare for the NFL draft. Check back into Down the Tunnel for an in depth recap of the bowl victory, and upcoming news for Notre Dame football.