A Blue-Gold Game for the Ages

Notre Dame has announced the dates and times of ticket sales for the 2007 Blue-Gold game, to be held on April 21st. One of the biggest frustrations about living out here in California is that road trips to events like this just aren't possible most of the time, unless you just happen to have an extra $1,000 laying around for airline tickets, rental car, and hotel room. I'm reminded of the bumper sticker that says "Driver carries no cash. He's married." It's too bad, because this year's Blue-Gold game could be one for the ages. Think about it. The public debut of Jimmy Clausen, who could very well be the next Brady Quinn, or better. The debut of a new defensive coordinator and a new defensive scheme. The first meaningful look at a lot of young players who will be counted on in the Fall. And to top it all off, Ara Parseghian and Lou Holtz prowling the sidelines of Notre Dame Stadium on the same day as honorary coaches. The "Era of Ara" was when I came of age as a Notre Dame fan, and for me it will be pretty emotional to see Coach Parseghian back in the stadium. And Lou was no slouch either, although I blame him and his quirky offense for our long-term difficulties recruiting talented players to the skill positions.

Heck, I may have just talked myself into buying those plane tickets after all.