Oct. 5, 2000

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – With local temperatures dipping to 55 degrees, the Notre Dame football team opted to stay outdoors while completing preparation for Saturday’s game against Stanford.

“I saw no reason to practice inside,” Irish head coach Bob Davie said. “We are anxious to play. It seems like a long time since we played a game”

After two weeks filled with questions about the open spot at quarterback, the attention finally shifted back to the task at hand.

“I think we all sense it,” Davie said. “There is a urgency to go play and I hope to see it on Saturday.”

VETERAN TAKES ON THE FRESHMAN QUARTERBACK

When freshman Matt LoVecchio takes the field on Saturday, he will lead a team that has confidence in his ability. Veterans of the 2000 football squad like what he brings to the field.

“Just talking to our older guys last week, they feel real good about Matt and were really impressed on the way he came into the Michigan State game,” Davie said. “That’s probably the biggest reason he will be the starting quarterback, because of the communication I have had with the older guys.”

JULIUS JONES PROBABLE FOR SATURDAY

Julius Jones has a bit of a hamstring problem leading into Saturday’s contest against the Stanford Cardinal. Also he has his hand in a cast during the weeks between games to help heal it.

“Julius thumb is ok but his hamstring is bothering him,” Davie said. “He hurt that thing in practice and he is still a concern. It may be a game time decision on whether or not he will play on Saturday.”