It started as a general statement. Notre Dame's running backs need to get more physical. But the more running backs coach/offensive coordinator Mike Haywood talked about the inconsistent Irish rushing attack�99th in the country with a 3.0-yard average per carry�the more obvious it became that the onus is on junior running back Darius Walker.

Walker, a 5-foot-10, 208-pounder who ranks sixth on Notre Dame's all-time rushing list with 2,561 career rushing yards, has been a warrior for the Irish. He's had to carry the bulk of the load the last three years due to youth and a lack of depth behind him.

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