Keep Winning Baby

Notre Dame has won two straight games, just beat a previously undefeated team in Purdue and gained zero spots in the national rankings. It is still No. 12.

What’s the deal?

First off, the teams ahead of it continue to win, so the opportunity to rise hasn’t come. That will change, so if the Irish keep winning, and they have a great chance to do that in the next six games, they’ll move into the top 10.

Second, though, is a defense that continues to impress no one. Notre Dame ranks 88^th in points allowed and 92^nd in total defense. That’s among 119 Division I-A teams.

Yes, it’s a cliché that defense wins championships. It’s also true. So if the Irish really want to make a jump in the polls, they’ll have to play better defense.

Of course, if they win their final seven regular season games and beat USC 70-68, maybe no one will care.

Winning remains the bottom line.