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Next Man Up

The 1966 football showdown between Notre Dame and Michigan State remains one of the most iconic moments in Fighting Irish lore. Backup quarterback Coley O’Brien was thrust into the spotlight early in the contest as starter Terry Hanratty was knocked out of action. We are very fortunate to have received a detailed account by Mr. O’Brien regarding his career and unique “Game of the Century” perspective through fellow alumnus Dennis Fitzgerald ’73, who provided the narrative and questions below. We also thank Mr. O’Brien for his valuable time and gracious cooperation. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.