Notre Dame v. Louisville ’14 – Shamrock Stickers

Notre Dame lost its third game in a row and fourth of its last five falling 31-28 to Louisville on senior day.  The Irish were marred by sloppy play yet again with offense, defense and special teams making critical mistakes.  The decision to play Austin Collinsworth and Drue Tranquill ahead of Max Redfield and Elijah Shumate continues to cost the Irish along with injuries that showcase the lack of quality depth and youth of the defense.  The following players stood out in defeat for the Irish:

Will Fuller:  Irish receiver Will Fuller has been the most consistent performer for the Irish offense this season and he put together another quality game versus Louisville. Fuller had a team-high five receptions for 109 yards and a circus touchdown catch, while also blocking well on the edge in the run game.

Tarean Folston:  Florida native Tarean Folston had yet another good game in defeat.  The sophomore rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries.  Folston ran well both between and outside the tackles, continuing to show his excellent vision.  Folston also blocked well in pass protection.

Jaylon Smith:  Linebacker Jaylon Smith wore number 38 to honor injured Joe Schmidt and played well in doing so.  Smith had a game-high 11 tackles including one for loss as well as a pass breakup where he showed his elite athleticism.  Smith was also one of the best Irish players defending the run.

Cole Luke:  Cornerback Cole Luke did a very good job of slowing down elite receiver DeVante Parker.  Luke stayed with Parker step for step consistently throughout the game with Parker’s only big play coming when he was covered by Devin Butler.  Luke had three tackles and two pass breakups in the game.