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If HC Charlie Weis can take anything from the 33-19 loss at Purdue

2007-10-05

If HC Charlie Weis can take anything from the 33-19 loss at Purdue, it’s that his team actually showed signs of improvement. Though it was another loss in what has become a dismal season, the Irish did manage to finally win a game ATS, snapping a six-game losing skid.

The play of QB Evan Sharpley in the second half was enough for Weis to say, “For the first time this year, we played a half of football where you could win.” UCLA meanwhile, also played a great second half Saturday, turning a 14-12 deficit into a 40-14 rout win at Oregon State. The Bruins are 4-1 SU & ATS in ’07, and 16-4 ATS in their L20 at home.

This sure looked like a contest of relevance back in August before Notre Dame showed this roster had no ability to play major college football. The real answer won’t be known for about two years whose fault this really was from a recruiting standpoint. Did Tyrone Willingham really leave the cupboard this bare? Or are the players Charley Weis is bringing in too slow? No matter, they will be at distinct disadvantage against UCLA team that is probably better at all 22 starting positions. This theme is becoming more redundant than a season of Matlock episodes.

This is a vexing game for the Bruins. Off last year’s unbelievable disappointment of controlling the Notre Dame offense and losing on miracle drive 20-17, redemption would certainly be sweet. With the Irish not putting up much of a fight and a genuinely more consequential home game with Cal next week, how does Karl Dorrell sell this contest to his squad? The dastardly game against Utah is now in the past and nothing is more imperative then playing for a Pac-10 title.

Notre Dame is greater then a 9-point underdog for the fifth time in a row, another first. UCLA should attack the Irish on the perimeter, seeking quick knockout punch to build big lead and turn thoughts to California. The only good news for Notre Dame is they get to play in the Rose Bowl, since that is the Bruins home stadium. UCLA is 16-5 ATS at home since 2004.

Prediction – UCLA by 24

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