Little Guy Steals the Show in Notre Dame’s Big Victory

Trailing, 10-0, Notre Dame got some big help from the shortest guy on the Knights’ roster--Corey Franzini.

Franzini, a 5-foot-5 senior defensive back, intercepted two of Jason Brennan’s passes in the second quarter to set up two touchdowns and help the Knights to a 28-10 Mission League victory over Bishop Montgomery.

Notre Dame plays host to Chaminade next Friday night with the league title on the line.

Brennan completed 25 of 52 passes for 298 yards, but he threw four interceptions and was sacked six times.

Notre Dame’s John Garcia rushed for 152 yards in 24 carries and scored on a four-yard run following Franzini’s first interception. Garcia also scored on a 12-yard run late in the fourth quarter.

Notre Dame took a 14-10 lead with 30 seconds left in the half when Ryan Bowne hit Troy Garner with a 13-yard pass.

Bowne, who completed 10 of 16 passes for 92 yards, connected with Robbie Brewster on a 16-yard scoring pass play to give the Knights a 21-10 lead in the third quarter. Brewster caught six passes for 74 yards and had Notre Dame’s other two interceptions.

Bishop Montgomery’s Omar Smith caught 12 passes for 141 yards.