Give Uncle Charlie A Break

I understand the criticism directed at Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. I really do. But people, they won three games last year. Three! They set an NCAA record for most sacks allowed, looked completely overmatched on defense and never had a chance to get back into games because of an inept offense. Compare that disaster to this season. Quarterback Jimmy Clausen, for the most part, has been protected by an offensive line that is pass-blocking much better. The defense has kept them in every game and has looked much more aggressive in all areas. And while the offense put up a goose-egg against BC last Saturday night, I think the Irish have wilted under the pressure of playing BC this last decade. I don't think everyone realizes just how much these two teams hate each other. The culmination was the game in South Bend in 1993 that ultimately cost ND a national title. For some reason, the Irish forgot how to beat BC, as the Eagles have won six straight. Perhaps actually running the football would provide the Irish with a better chance of success, as the preseason Weis mandate to "pound the ball" has never quite come into fruition. But the idea that Weis should get fired is ludicrous. The Ty Willingham firing was unfortunate, don't get me wrong. But he couldn't recruit. And that's in the past. Two wrongs don't make a right, so at least give Weis a chance to coach the players he's brought into South Bend. If these supposed big-time prospects don't pan out and the Irish are still mediocre? Then make the change. But for ND athletic director Jack Swarbrick to even have to answer questions about Weis are a little asinine.