Sept. 13, 2000
NOTRE DAME, Ind. – With all that has occurred in the past week for the Notre Dame football team, certain things have been pushed aside to address the pressing situation in regards to the quarterback position.
Besides losing the starting quarterback, the team also lost one of its captains for the season. Senior defensive end Grant Irons dislocated his shoulder in the Nebraska and will be out for the remainder of the season.
“You lose Grant Irons that has been overshadowed because of Arnaz,” Davie said. “If the Arnaz situation wouldn’t have happened, it would be huge right now, talking about Grant Irons. For our football team, it is huge. So that’s a challenge.”
Irons is a major loss for the team. He is scheduled to have shoulder surgery early next week or sooner depending on the swelling. Ryan Roberts who is no stranger to injury will replace Irons. Roberts suffered almost a career-ending back injury.
Cornerback Brock Williams sprained his knee in Saturday’s game. He will take things lightly this week but Davie expects him to recover in time. The Irish especially need the help of Williams when they face the passing powerhouse of Purdue.
Senior wide receiver Joey Getherall will more than likely play against the Boilermakers. He suffered a back contusion against the Cornhuskers but is scheduled to make his return for Saturday. The other major concern from Saturday’s game was Javin Hunter. The receiver suffered a concussion but he too is listed as probable.
“We’re a little bit beat up,” Davie said. “That’s how the chips fall.”
Davie does expect his team to recover in time to take on the Boilermakers of Purdue with a new leader in quarterback Gary Godsey.