The play of Notre Dame's offensive line became much more significant with the loss of Arnaz Battle. Quarterback Gary Godsey needs the best protection possible to give him maximum time to get off his passes, and this is up to the offensive line.

The Irish have improved on the offensive line since last year, when they were a very young group. The extra year of experience is paying off for guards Mike Gandy and Jim Jones and tackles Jordan Black and Kurt Vollers, who are joined by center Jeff Faine. So far the line has allowed Notre Dame's quarterbacks to be sacked six times, two fewer than its opponents. The Irish have also committed far fewer turnovers than in '99.

• Irish must become road warriors to win
  
• Boiman blends fiery play with will to improve
  
• Offensive line takes the heat
  
• Spartans ready to top Irish for fourth-straight time
  
• Holtz looks to extend streak over Bulldogs
  
• Duckett's Spartan performance causes Notre Dame headaches
  
• Belles look to score for victory
  
• Irish runners host Catholic Invitational
  
• Weekend games begin with victory
  
• ND hosts UConn, Seton Hall
  
• Undefeated squad travels to West Virginia
  
• Belles host first ever Jamboree
  
• Rabid Bats seek redemption in rematch against Wave
  
• Keenan takes on Dillon in early season showdown
  
• Purple Weasels take on Shamrocks in enemy territory
  
• Teamwork, defense key as Welsh takes on Lyons