Fighting Irish following Weis' lead

Updated: October 6, 2005, 5:35 PM ET

A look at the non-BCS schools

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By Adam Rittenberg
Special to ESPN.com

The season might not end with a BCS berth, and glory hasn't reserved its room in South Bend. But Notre Dame has turned a corner under new coach Charlie Weis. Summoned for his attitude, his pedigree and his untouchable offense, Weis has roused the Notre Dame program in his brief tenure. Players have absorbed the wealth of information thrown their way and executed the new schemes on game days.

The No. 12 Irish (4-1) are on pace for their best offensive performance in years, and several players -- QB Brady Quinn, RB Darius Walker and WR Jeff Samardzija -- already have set records. A win against two-time defending champion USC on Oct. 15 might be farfetched, even for these Irish, but Weis is rightfully encouraged by the team's direction.

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