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Palmer Prepared To Start Season Opener Against Washington State

Sept. 3, 2003

by Elizabeth Goers

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – The first time starting on your home field for your team, especially at Notre Dame, can be a daunting experience. Yet, this is the exact opportunity afforded to Billy Palmer this Saturday as the Irish face Washington State in their season opener. Although Palmer was the reserve tight end last season for Notre Dame and had many special teams appearances, starting brings a different type of feeling to this weekend than those in the past.

“I am definitely anxious,” the senior from Wyntree Heathrow, Fla., says. “The good thing is we are at home. It’s a nice place to open up the season. I’m looking forward to Saturday.”

With fifth-year senior starter Gary Godsey injured, Palmer is the one slated to step in for the starting duties at tight end. Many players would be intimitated by this task, and therefore try to make changes in their game. However, Palmer knows that consistency is what is needed, and that improving one’s skills is a continuing process.

“I just have to keep learning and evolving,” he says. “Hopefully, then I will become a better football player. All areas of my game need to be improved.”

As usual, Notre Dame always plays a solid football schedule each fall. Opening against Washington State, the defending Pac-10 Conference co-champion and a Rose Bowl participant, is no exception either. With the Cougars’ quickness on defense, Palmer knows that they will bring strong competition to the field.

“They’re a good, sound football team, and they will definitely be a challenge come Saturday,” he says.

— ND —