Matt Cashore – US Presswire
Brian Kelly and his No. 9 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-0) squad will play the Miami Hurricanes (4-1) on prime-time television, at Soldier Field in Chicago this upcoming Saturday. The Irish are lead by line-backer Manti Te’o, who is currently writing an impressive resume to become the second defensive player to win the Heisman trophy. This is definitely must-see TV!
The Irish have been tearing through the Big 10 this year, as they have wins over the Purdue Boilermakers, Michigan State Spartans and Michigan Wolverines.
Te’o has lead the Irish in tackles the past two seasons and has 15 solo tackles through four games this year. He also has 3 interceptions on the season, two of which came in their win over Michigan.
Charles Woodson lead Michigan to a National Championship in 1997 and he too was the heart of the defense. Te’o has a path to the trophy, but that path would have to mirror Woodson’s campaign, which included an undefeated season and big prime-time moments.
Te’o does have seniority in his favor as well. The Samoan has also shown extreme strength and courage this season as he recently lost his grandmother and girlfriend in a 24 hour span. His girlfriend, Lennay Kekua lost a long battle with Lukemia. For Te’o to not miss a game or beat is impressive to say the least.
The stage will be set in Chicago at Soldier Field, under the lights on NBC. Two A-list schools. If Manti Te’o can lead the Irish to a win over the Canes, his name remains amongst the Heisman candidates.
Paul Bentley is a contributor to Rant Sports
Follow Bentley on Twitter at @KKingBentley
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