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Notre Dame Football: The Best Irish Players To Wear No. 9

By Connor McJunkin

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 07: Jaylon Smith #9 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates by wearing the hat of team mascot, Lucky The Leprechaun, following their 42-30 win against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Heinz Field on November 7, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 07: Jaylon Smith #9 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates by wearing the hat of team mascot, Lucky The Leprechaun, following their 42-30 win against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Heinz Field on November 7, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images) /
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SOUTH BEND, IN – NOVEMBER 12: Tom Zbikowski #9 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish runs with the ball after intercepting a pass intended for receiver Jason Tomlinson #87 of the Navy Midshipman on November 12, 2005 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated Navy 42-21. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Tom Zbikowski, FS/PR, 2004 – 2007

To most of the older fans — or at least those older than 18 — Zbikowski might be the first name to pop in their heads when they see No. 9. He was by far one of the biggest fan favorites during the Charlie Weis era. His quiet demeanor and blue-collar attitude made him an easy player to gravitate towards and love.

Aside from being loved by most Irish fans, his play warrants him as one of the best safeties to ever play for the Irish — not just one of the best players to wear No. 9. He tallied 230 total tackles in his career, including 127 solo, nabbed 8 interceptions, and had four defensive touchdowns. On special teams, Zbikowski had 757 punt return yards and three punt return touchdowns.

His breakout season came in 2005 when he recorded 71 total tackles, five interceptions, two pick-sixes, and two punt returns for scores. He was named a captain in 2006 and during his senior season in 2007, he posted a career high in tackles with 80. Zbikowski was named a 3rd Team AP All-American after his 2005 and 2006 seasons.

Zbikowski was taken in the 3rd round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens and also played for the Colts and Bears during his six year career. Zbikowski will forever be remembered for his hard-hitting, go-to-work attitude. Combine that with the production he had on the field, and he is easily one of the best to ever wear No. 9 for the Irish.

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