How will the Irish respond?

By Justin Albers
basketballss132002@yahoo.com
INDIANAPOLIS- Last week it was the Wolverines from Ann Arbor, this week it is the Spartans from East Lansing. Even though the two teams are from the same state, the mindset coming into each game is completely different. Going into the game last week the Irish were the #2 ranked team in the country and were just trying to stay in the hunt for the title. This week the Irish are #12 and they are trying desperately to earn back some respect.
After losing 47-21 to Michigan last week, Notre Dame marches into East Lansing looking for respect. Charlie Weis has every motivation there to help him prepare for this game, so there should be no excuses. First, Notre Dame was beaten by this same Spartan team a year ago in South Bend. To make matters worse Michigan State planted a flag in the middle of Notre Dame Stadium, which had the University and the fans irate. And after a humiliating loss last week, everything is in place. You better believe that Notre Dame is going to be ready for the game tomorrow, and they are certainly going to bring their "A" game. I'm sure that Charlie has been preparing as hard as he ever has this week, and we should see an outstanding performance.
Personally, I do not expect this game to be close. Michigan State has an excellent offense, but Notre Dame will be much too hyped up for this game to allow the Spartans to stay in it. Expect the Irish offense to be sharp and run the ball often. They will not be embarrased again, so watch out Spartans because Here Come The Irish!
Final Score Prediction: ND 41 MSU 17