Notre Dame's win over Boston College helped the Irish in the polls but not nearly as much as Alabama's loss did.
Notre Dame has moved up to 3rd in the BCS standings.
Kansas State takes the top spot, Oregon is 2nd...although the Ducks are number one in the AP poll. Previously unbeaten Alabama falls to 4th. If this holds up the rest of the way, early bowl predictions have the Irish playing in the Rose Bowl, not in the National Championship.
Notre Dame is 10-and-0 for the first time in 19 years after the win over B-C.
The Irish brought a balanced offensive attack, rushing for 184 yards and receiving for 200. Everett Golson finished 16-of-24 with two passing and one rushing touchdown.
And the defense did not allow a touchdown, giving up just 6 points. The Eagles rushed for 54 yards.
Brian Kelly said in his weekly teleconference that he voted Notre Dame number one in the Coaches Poll. He he doesn't typically "campaign" for his team because he says the defense speaks for itself.
"The distinction of this football team is it's the No.1 scoring defense in the country. We've proven that against very good teams all year. ... If you look at national championship-caliber football, you've got to look at defense. That's why we feel strongly our football team has put itself in the discussion. We'll let others decide, but we've put ourselves in the discussion."
No matter how it plays out, the Irish are proud of their effort.
