DUBLIN - Sophomore quarterback Everett Golson made his first start Sunday, completing 12 of 18 passes for 144 yards, one touchdown and one interception. In the win, Golson extended an impressive streak for Irish coach Brian Kelly: In each of his last six games with a new starter under center, Kelly has emerged a winner. The last quarterback to win his first start under Kelly was junior quarterback Tommy Rees, who started in Notre Dame's 28-3 Senior Day victory over No. 15 Utah in 2010. Before Rees, Dayne Crist won his first start in that same season, leading the Irish to victory over Purdue in the 2010 season opener.
Opener holds many firsts
Senior linebacker Manti Te'o recorded two "firsts" in Saturday's contest. Te'o recovered a fumble for the first time in the second quarter, and after halftime recorded his first interception.
Twenty-one players made their first appearance in a Notre Dame uniform Saturday, including 14 in the first quarter. Golson was among those making their first career appearance.
Senior receiver Robby Toma scored the first rushing touchdown of his career on a nine-yard scamper with just 39 seconds left in the contest.
Offensive reversals
In 2010, Notre Dame gave up 367 rushing yards to the Midshipmen, who normally outrush the Irish due to a rush-heavy triple-option attack. Navy recorded just 149 yards on the ground in Saturday's contest, its lowest total since the 2010 season. The Midshipmen did throw for 192 yards at 9.7 yards per attempt.
The Irish rolled up 293 yards on the ground, their biggest total since a 320-yard rushing output against Stanford in 2003. They added 192 yards through the air, normally their primary method of moving the ball.
Contact Allan Joseph at
ajoseph2@nd.edu
