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Notre Dame Football: Top Storylines vs. Syracuse

By Connor McJunkin

EVANSTON, IL - NOVEMBER 03: Head coach Brian Kelly of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish leads his team onto the field prior to a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on November 3, 2018 in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
EVANSTON, IL - NOVEMBER 03: Head coach Brian Kelly of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish leads his team onto the field prior to a game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on November 3, 2018 in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Notre Dame
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 03: The facade of Yankee Stadium is seen prior to the American League Wild Card Game between the New York Yankees and the Oakland Athletics on October 03, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Michael Heiman/Getty Images) /

Shamrock Series

The odd uniforms, unique playing venue, and lifelong fans complaining about how the “tradition” of Notre Dame is being tarnished,” yep, the Shamrock Series is definitely back.

The Shamrock Series has been a topic of debate among many Irish fans since it was first introduced in 2009. On one side, fans argue the flashiness and deviation from the traditional helmets and uniforms takes away from their established image and prestige. On the other hand,  some argue it actually keeps Notre Dame relevant. They can show off their tradition and image at interesting venues, possibly helping with recruiting.

Whether you are for or against the series, the Irish have historically played well in this unique game. Notre Dame is 8-0 in Shamrock Series games and have won their contests by an average margin of 22 points. Only two of the eight games have been decided by less than 16 points — 2013 vs Arizona St. and 2015 vs Boston College. While Syracuse will be the highest ranked and most formidable opponent the Irish will have played in this series, it’s worth noting that they historically play well in this game.

This year’s game will take place in Yankee Stadium and will be the third time the Irish will play in the Bronx under Brian Kelly. In 2010 the Irish defeated Army 27-3 in the Shamrock Series. In 2013, Notre Dame defeated Rutgers 29-16 in the Pinstripe Bowl.

This year’s game features New York Yankee-inspired uniforms that are interesting to say the least. The pinstripe pants and iconic Yankee-block letters and cursive typography on the jersey has caused a stir of backlash, especially from the Boston-based Irish fans.

Just like in baseball, sometimes you swing and miss. There have certainly been better designs from previous Shamrock Series games, but I admire the willingness to combine two of the most hated brands in sports into one uniform.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what they are wearing, as long as they get the job done. This is a unique experience for the players and fans that is only magnified by getting to play a tough and highly ranked Syracuse team. Embrace it and enjoy it while it’s here.

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