ESPN.com Preseason Power Rankings 2012

25. Notre Dame
Last summer, the Fighting Irish were riding the momentum of a four-game winning streak into a relatively favorable schedule, talking of BCS expectations along the way. But the 2011 campaign was sandwiched by a pair of two-game losing streaks, with quarterback controversies and turnover issues popping up across the season. Arguably the toughest schedule in the nation awaits the Irish in 2012, and the QB derby remains clouded. Can Notre Dame thrive under the radar this season? Can Notre Dame ever even be considered under the radar? Facing six teams coming off 10-win seasons, the Irish are in an unusual position in 2012, with their season opener in Dublin against Navy -- and without incumbent QB Tommy Rees, who is suspended for the opener. -- Matt Fortuna, ESPN.com Notre Dame blogger
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ESPN Video
- 00:43
High schooler with Down syndrome sinks 3-pointer
Leslie County (Ky.) High School's Ethan Wolfe, who has Down syndrome, checks into the game and knocks down a 3-pointer.
- 02:04
Hurts surprises family with donation toward a new home
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts surprises a family, whose child is battling cancer, with a $30,000 donation to go toward a new home.
- 01:25
Ron Rivera rings the bell after final day of cancer treatment
Washington coach Ron Rivera receives an ovation as he walks down the hospital hallway to ring the bell after his final day of cancer treatment.


