Irish Overcome Pesky Syracuse

A three touchdown explosion just before halftime propelled Notre Dame to a 45-21 victory over an inspired but outmanned Syracuse team on Saturday. The Fighting Irish trailed by 7-3 with five minutes remaining in the second quarter, and seemed to be sleep walking through the sunny afternoon. Then lightning struck. The victory lifted the second-ranked hosts to 10-0 as the regular season comes to a close.

Notre Dame appeared to be headed for another three and out offensive series when a roughing the passer penalty gave them new life. Ian Book completed two passes downfield before scrambling for the final 28 yards to retake the lead by 10-7. The Irish then turned up the defensive intensity as…