It’s an exciting day for fans of Catholic collegiate sports. The University of Notre Dame football team will be facing off against Alabama for the BCS Championship at 3 p.m. Hawaii time. (Set your TV to ESPN.)
The game holds some significance in the Islands, especially with local boy Manti Te’o leading Notre Dame’s defense. We’re also home to dozens of die-hard ND alumni and supporters who have followed the school’s undefeated season this year.
Even if you’re not too big into football, there’s still a lot to appreciate in the many storylines of players from both teams who perform with passion and tenacity both on and off the field.
Need to brush up on the facts before the game? Below is an excerpt of a table comparison on the two championship teams — you can find the full “Tale of the tape” at ESPN.com
Good luck, Fighting Irish!!!
Tale of the tape: Alabama vs. Notre Dame
Notre Dame  |
Alabama  |
|
|---|---|---|
| Location | South Bend, Ind. | Tuscaloosa, Ala. |
| City population | 101,081 | 91,605 |
| County | St. Joseph | Tuscaloosa |
| City best known for its | Football | Ribs |
| Best postgame meal | Parisi’s | Dreamland |
| School enrollment | 11,816 | 31,747 |
| Founded | 1842 | 1831 |
| First year of football | 1887 | 1892 |
| All-time record | 865-299-42 | 826-321-43 |
| Number of times on NCAA probation | 3 | 1 |
| Colors | Blue and gold | Crimson and white |
| Home stadium capacity | 80,795 | 101,821 |
| Football graduation rate | 97 percent | 75 percent |
| Campus landmark | Golden Dome | Paul W. Bryant Museum |
| Most famous football landmark | Touchdown Jesus | Paul “Bear” Bryant statue |
01/07/2013 at 9:48 pm
High hopes but it’s still 42-14 Crimson Tide.