Bryant breaking out: Notre Dame shuffled its three tailbacks in and out, but Greg Bryant looked like a man on a mission. He made the most of his eight carries in rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown.
What got into them? After comically struggling the last few years on punt returns, the Irish might have something in Bryant and Cody Riggs. In 2012, the Irish returned all punts for a combined 46 yards. On Saturday, they had 80.
Mixed bag for defense: Overall the defense’s first effort under coordinator Brian VanGorder was a solid one. There’s room to grow, especially in the secondary, but a lot to build on after allowing just 17 points.
Freshmen step up: The Irish are a young team and plenty of freshmen saw significant playing time, including defensive end Andrew Trumbetti, safety Drue Tranquill and defensive tackle Daniel Cage.
Looking ahead: Notre Dame and Michigan square off in the finale of their series at 6:30 p.m. Saturday.
— Chris Hine
