Notre Dame’s victory Saturday night over Michigan State moved the Irish (2-1) above .500 for the first time since the opening game of the 2003 season, when they beat Washington State 29-26 in overtime. . . .
Freshman Darius Walker already is writing his name alongside some of the best tailbacks in recent Notre Dame history. Walker’s 213 rushing yards in his first two games are the most by an Irish freshman since freshmen became eligible in 1972.
Autry Denson, Notre Dame’s all-time career rushing leader, ran for 112 yards in his first two games as a freshman in 1995. Denson is followed by Vagas Ferguson with 58 in 1976 and Jerome Heavens with 55 in 1975. . . .
Coach Tyrone Willingham said the Irish need to learn to finish opponents off. “You can’t afford to give a team life,” he said. “You can’t let them live. You’ve got to put them away.”