On September 1,2012 the University of Notre Dame played their first football game of the season and started it off with a bang by defeating Navy by more than 20 points. The Fighting Irish, as they are often referred to, started the season with a new head coach, Brian Kelly, and a new quarterback, Everett Golson. Despite the changes, the team continues to perform week in and week out.

Notre Dame has been considered one of the most elite and most fascinating football teams in recent history. This season seemed to be the year of the Irish as they finished their regular season 12-0 and are now on their way to the BCS National Championship game in January.

A record of 12-0 and the opportunity to receive a title shot is a dream come true for any college team. Notre Dame’s senior linebacker Manti Te’o, the frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy Award, was a huge part of the team’s success this season. Te’o had a challenging year off the field as he lost his grandmother and his girlfriend in the span of just six hours. However, these tragedies did not stop him from playing his next game on September 22 against Michigan State. He played his heart out for his grandmother and girlfriend getting 12 tackles and the game sealing interception. This game just highlighted Te’o’s leadership, commitment, and strength of character.

Mark this day down on your calendar – January 7, 2013 when Notre Dame plays for the National Championship. Many believe they will play their hearts out from the minute the game starts until the final seconds wind down.