A Weisly Conceived Offense Will Gun The Panthers

Faithful Irish posters throughout the myriad ND messages boards have wondered "aloud"
and nervously pondered Saturday night's game on Heinz Field in Pittsburgh: Can our lads perform well under the lights? Will the last gasps of the wicked wind witch, Katrina, play a negative role? What if the untested Frosh offensive lineman have to play? Can the new defensively aligned brigade stop Palko this time? And, the big one: What if Quinn goes down? Hmm to all of these concerns and to all the intangibles.

We can instantly analyze the match-up this way: Passing game gives Pitt the edge. Running game goes to the Irish, as does the offensive line. Receivers--dead heat. Defensive lines--too close to call. Pitt gets the better of linebackers and defensive backs. Kicking game also to the Panthers; no contest here. Special teams play over-all: flip a coin.

We have a high regard for Dave Wannstedt, despite the low opinion held by most ND fans. He'll have his boys ready to play. But, he will meet his match and be surpassed by Charlie Weis and his coaching staff.

Yes, it will be the coaching staff that leads ND to victory in its first game. We believe that in the end it will be the play calling of Weis; a sturdy passing barrier by the likes of Morton, Harris, LeVoir, Stevenson, Santucci and, yes, Sullivan; Heismann-hype passing by Quinn; and great routes and catches by the receiving corps. Bombs bursting in air! (Not to mention what this does for yards gained by young Mr. Walker).

We also have a lot of confidence in Lewis, Minter and associates in having the defense rise to the occasion and send a disturbing message to other opposing passers like Henne and Leinhart.

You see, The Fighting Irish have the talent, as they have had, and now they have the mentors to direct it.

If the Irish attack shows itself early, right from the outset, this will be no contest.

Panthers bagged and hung out to dry.

--Old Shillelagh