NDUKWHERE?

I don't know why yet--maybe they've informed you on TV, but we in the press box are oblivious--but Chinedum Ndukwe, one of the Irish' leading tacklers all season, hasn't played in the 2nd half. He's standing on the sideline right now, talking to John Carlson.

To the commenter who asked how come everyone is slipping: the grass is a little slick out there, yes, but I also think overwhelming speed can have that effect on players.

ND just made a big stop on 3rd-and-1.

By the way, I'm wondering how many Michigan fans are pointing out that the Wolverines were up 34-14 at the half on the Irish in South Bend, as opposed to SC being up 21-10 at home.

ND currently has 3rd-and-2 at SC 7. It's got to be 2-down territory.

First play: Darius just shy of first down. ND has to go for it on 4th.
Second: Hand off to Aldridge, who BARELY gets first down. In fact, USC is challenging the spot on the field.

ND wins challenge, USC loses its 2nd timeout of the half. Will that matter later? Probably not, but we'll see.