Oct. 12, 2000

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – Head coach Bob Davie is entering this weekend’s match with only one expectation, quality play from his football team.

“I am expecting us to play well,” Davie said. “They will probably play their best football game of the year and that is what I am anticipating.”

Davie feels confident about his team’s chances after such a solid week of practice.

“Right now all the signs are really positive that this team is going to be able to play a heck of a game,” Davie said. “This has always been a competitive series, but I feel good about our team and I’m anxious to see us go play Saturday.”

ISRAEL QUESTIONABLE FOR SATURDAY

Staring strong safety Ron Israel is questionable going into Saturday’s clash with Navy.

“Ron Israel is a major concern right now,” Davie said. “It has become a chronic problem with some muscle pulls.”

With Israel questionable, Davie looks for a young sophomore to take his place. Glenn Earl, a 6′ 2″ 215 lbs sophomore, competed with Ron Israel to start at strong safety before the season started.

LoVECCHIO TAKING NEXT STEP

Davie commented on the progress of quarterback Matt LoVecchio.

“I think he feels good about himself and he certainly has allot of confidence,” Davie said. “You’ll know alot after the game.”

This Saturday’s game marks the second start for the freshman. He took over the starting position for the game against Stanford.

“I think that we are capable of taking the next step as a football team,” Davie said. “Certainly after this week we will know if we are capable of doing that.”