<p>The decision to grant President Obama an honorary degree has apparently paid off big. Despite being beaten by a Michigan team that lost twice and barely beating teams with losing records like Nevada and Purdue, the Irish are ranked number 25 in each poll this week. I think the voters wanted to make sure that they didn't offend Doctor of Laws holder Obama. When President Obama is awarded the Heisman Trophy in December he will be Notre Dame's eighth winner and will pull the Irish back ahead of Ohio State.</p>
<p>Seriously, the Irish have to be on a mission and deal with USC this week. As the Irish's only ranked opponent, this is the barometer of whether the program will remain relevant. As a long time fan, I hope the Irish can win and restore their competitiveness. Win, and the Iish could be in a BCS game. Lose and even if all the other unranked "invalid" teams are dispatched, the Irish might not finish with a rank of their own.</p>
<p>That was the strangest attempt at stirring Obama controversy I’ve ever heard. </p>
<p>Three teams dropped out of the top 25. We had a number of players with minor injuries (Jimmy and Armando come to mind), and with two weeks for these to heal, as well as to prepare for USC, I think 25 may be just the slightest bit inflated, but not unfair. We’ll see after this weekend. </p>
<p>Huge game. If Clausen can come up with a huge W, he takes a comfortable lead in the Heisman race. Without Floyd, it’s going to be tough; I’m worried about the defense. But I wouldn’t be surprised if the Irish pull out with a victory.</p>
<p>And, no… Their rating has absolutely nothing to do with Obama. Sorry.</p>
<p>Actually I like the Obama winning the Heisman line. Won’t be the first award he receives that he actually doesn’t do anything to earn…</p>
<p>Offensively, the Irish are as good as any team in the country. Defensively, not so much. They beat Michigan on the field, and should have won the game outright. They should be ranked a little higher, and will leap up with a win against USC.</p>