Recruiting Consequences

Yes, there might have been some recruiting consequences in the wake of Notre Dame's Sugar Bowl blow-out loss to LSU.

Three heralded recruits -- defensive end Ben Martin, linebacker Chris Donald and offensive lineman Chris Little -- passed on the Irish. Martin and Donald both chose Tennessee. Little chose Florida State. All three made their announcements during Saturday's U.S. Army All-America Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. The event featured some of the country's top high school prospects.

It wasn't all bad. Notre Dame did get an oral commitment from 6-6, 270-pound offensive lineman Matt Romine from Oklahoma.

The bowl also featured California quarterback Jimmy Clausen, a Notre Dame commitment who will enroll at the university for the second semester. He completed 6 of 11 passes for 58 yards. He did throw an interception.

Don't let that performance depress you. This was an all-star setting with minimal practice time, so it's not a true indication of potential. Wait until Irish coach Charlie Weis gets a chance to work with Clausen.

As far as the overall recruiting, Notre Dame is still positioned to have an outstanding class, and likely will land a few more studs before the February signing period. The Irish should reap those consequences for years to come.