Here's what to keep an eye on Saturday when the Irish make their final scheduled trip to the Big House.
1. Atmosphere. Irish players repeatedly talked about the 2011 game-day environment being unlike anything they've ever seen. Expect a similar, emotionally-charged atmosphere again, minus the throwback jerseys and funny referee hats.
2. Rees in control. Tommy Rees is the one player Notre Dame can always count on to not get caught up in commotion. He had some very bright moments late in the 2011 game as a sophomore, and he is only better and more mature now. Look for a strong day from No. 11.
3) Kicking game. Notre Dame went 0-for-2 on field goal tries against Temple, and it cannot afford to do that at Michigan. Brian Kelly made it sound like the job will be Kyle Brindza's to lose after both he and Nick Tausch misfired in Week 1, and he said new holder Luke Massa was partly to blame for Brindza's miss.
