FINAL: Notre Dame falls to Michigan, 41-30
By Evan Reller
Sep 7, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt (7) celebrates with teammates after intercepting a pass in the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
No. 14 Notre Dame suffered an upset to No. 17 Michigan on the road. In what will likely be their last visit to the Big House, the Irish were unable to contain Devin Gardner and lost 41-30.
Gardner beat up Notre Dame with his arm and legs, racking up 294 passing yards and four touchdowns to go along with his 82 rushing yards and TD. He did throw a bad interception that was essentially recovered in the endzone and briefly got the Irish back into the game. Stephon Tuitt had the interception on a very athletic play for a defensive lineman.
Tommy Rees completed 29-of-51 passes for 314 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw two interceptions. His final pick was batted up in the endzone and the Wolverines came down with, effectively ending the game.
TJ Jones led the receiving corps with nine catches for for 94 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Troy Niklas snagged six passes for 76 yards and a touchdown.
The Irish were very effective running the ball, but since they trailed most of the game they were unable to do so as much as they’d like. Amir Carlisle got the bulk of the work with 12 carries for 64 yards.
The game was sealed on Michigan’s final drive when the Irish committed two pass interference on separate third down plays. Those penalties set up Michigan inside the five yard line, allowing the Wolverines to score a touchdown and gain an 11-point lead.
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