The Irish defense responded to the challenge, limiting Davis to 55 yards on 19 carries.

Each time they were within sniffing distance of the end zone, the Irish defense came up with the big play.

The Irish defense, however, held the Eagles for four downs to preserve the win.

Howard will operate against an Irish defense that has just two players who started against Michigan a year ago.

The Irish defense stood to the challenge as well, giving up not deep passing plays, and only 15 yards on the ground.

The Irish defense gave up 166 rushing yards and frustrated the coaches with several offside penalties.

The Irish defense stymied the Cardinal, holding them to just 111 yards in the first half.

The Irish defense, however, held the Trojans for the first time forcing a punt.

The junior free safety had scored on a 60-yard interception return in the second period as one of many highlights by a hard-charging Irish defense.

Holtz decided before the game that he would take over the Irish defense, which had been pummeled throughout the season.