Notre Dame can finally enjoy a football offseason. The nine-bowl losing streak is over. Jimmy Clausen (5 TDs) led the Irish to a 49-21 victory over Hawaii on Wednesday night in the Hawaii Bowl. Now coach Charlie Weis can focus on replacing offensive coordinator Michael Haywood, who left for Miami of Ohio — and on his knees. He’s set to have his right knee replaced next Monday. He’ll have major surgery on his left knee in February.
(Chicago Bulls) at Miami
Friday 4 p.m., CSN, ESPN
The Bulls begin a three-game road trip Friday in Miami. They’ll look to improve on a 3-13 record away from the United Center. “We’re not real efficient to start the game,” coach Vinny Del Negro said. “We dig ourselves big holes.”
(Chicago Blackhawks) vs. Philadelphia
Friday 7:30 p.m., CSN
The Hawks play Philadelphia on Friday night at the United Center and will attempt to tie a franchise record with their eighth straight victory. NBC will air the next home game, the Winter Classic, Jan. 1 from Wrigley Field.
Independence Bowl
(Northern Illinois University) vs. Louisiana Tech
Sunday 7 p.m., ESPN
It isn’t enough, apparently, that Northern Illinois has to play a Louisiana team in its home state Sunday night in the Independence Bowl in Shreveport. They have the whole Bayou State against them after Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal declared last Friday Louisiana Tech Football Day across the state. Still, the Huskies are one of this season’s best turnaround stories, going 6-6 after a 2-10 mark in 2007.
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Wade’s big gift
When Chicago native Dwyane Wade heard the plight of a South Florida woman whose nephew had accidentally burned down her home, the Miami Heat star knew he had to do something. Wade presented Dawn Smith with the ultimate Christmas gift Wednesday — the keys to a new house, along with furnishings, clothing and gifts to make sure her family has a joyous holiday.
Dunk you very much
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard will try to defend his Slam Dunk championship at the NBA All-Star weekend in Phoenix in February. He’ll face off against Memphis’ Rudy Gay and 2006 winner Nate Robinson of New York. A fan vote will determine the fourth competitor.
Motor City Bowl
Florida Atlantic (6-6)
at Central Michigan (8-4)
7:30 p.m., ESPN
Florida Atlantic is seeking a second-straight bowl victory. Central Michigan has made three straight Motor City Bowls.
