The 2013 Notre Dame football season was one of both promise and disappointment. After opening the season 12-0 and earning a spot in the BCS National Championship Game, the Fighting Irish fell to the Alabama Crimson Tide 42-14. While the championship loss stung, the 2013 season was still a memorable one for the Irish, with several players going on to have successful NFL careers. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Notre Dame 2013 Roster, reminiscing about some of the standout players and key contributors.
Offense
The 2013 Notre Dame offense was led by senior quarterback Tommy Rees. While not the most physically gifted quarterback, Rees was a smart and experienced signal-caller who knew how to win games. Rees threw for 3,257 yards and 27 touchdowns that season, with his favorite target being senior wide receiver TJ Jones, who caught 70 passes for 1,108 yards and nine touchdowns.
The running game was anchored by a pair of talented backs in George Atkinson III and Cam McDaniel. Atkinson, known for his blazing speed, rushed for 943 yards and eight touchdowns, while McDaniel, a more powerful runner, added 705 yards and three touchdowns.
The offensive line was a strength of the 2013 team, with future NFL players Zack Martin, Chris Watt, and Ronnie Stanley paving the way for the Irish rushing attack. Martin, a three-year starter at left tackle, went on to become a four-time All-Pro with the Dallas Cowboys.
Defense
The 2013 Notre Dame defense was anchored by a stout defensive line led by defensive end Stephon Tuitt and nose tackle Louis Nix III. Tuitt, a dominant pass rusher, recorded 7.5 sacks on the season, while Nix, a massive run-stuffer, was a force in the middle of the defensive line.
Linebacker Manti Te’o, who had finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting the previous season, returned for his senior year and once again led the Irish in tackles. Te’o was a tackling machine, recording 111 tackles on the season, and was the heart and soul of the Notre Dame defense.
The secondary was led by cornerback Bennett Jackson, who recorded four interceptions on the season. Jackson went on to have a brief stint in the NFL with the New York Giants.
A Season to Remember
While the 2013 Notre Dame football team ultimately fell short of their championship aspirations, the season was still a memorable one. The team showcased a potent offense, a stingy defense, and a never-say-die attitude that made them a joy to watch.
Looking back at the 2013 roster, it’s clear that the team was filled with talent, with several players going on to have successful NFL careers. The 2013 season serves as a reminder of the rich history and tradition of Notre Dame football and the excitement that comes with watching the Fighting Irish take the field.