Notre Dame, Ind (UHND) - Last season four freshmen played for the Fighting Irish - Maurice Stovall, Rhema McKnight, Mike Richardson, and Anthony Fassano. In year two under Tyrone Willingham, five freshman have already played in we are only one game deep into the season. Against Washington State this weekend, quarterback Brady Quinn, receivers Chinedum N'dukwe and Jeff Samardjiza, defensive back Freddie Parrish, and defensive end Victor Abiamiri all saw action in a close, hard fought battle.

Parrish and Quinn saw action in part due to injuries. Jason Beckstrom and Dwight Ellick both went down with injuries at different points in the game and Parrish saw action in their abscesses. Parrish came in and played fine and showed he is capable of making a contribution this year. Quinn came in for a series when Carlyle Holiday landed funny on his leg.

The other three freshman who got in the game were there by design. Chindeum N'dukwe was said to be impressing the coaches all summer long. That translated into playing time for the freshman receiver in his first game. Jeff Samardzija also was said to be impressing the coaches all summer and he too got in and made a catch for a 5 yard gain right by the sideline.

Victor Abiamiri was one of the most heralded recruits to come to Notre Dame this year. He showed great skill in the Army All American game and was regarded by many as the jewel of Notre Dame's recruiting class. He has so far not disappointed. He is listed as the back up defensive end behind Justin Tuck and got into the game in the third quarter this week. As he continues to get experience, his role will expand. He is going to be an outstanding defensive end and will no doubt be starting at least by next year when Kyle Budinscak graduates.

There was, as always, a lot of talk about who people thought would see the field first for the Irish among the freshmen class. Before summer camp N'Dukwe and Samardjiza were not near the top of that list. Ambrose Wooden was the more common pick among the receivers because of his speed. On defense, Parrish and Abiamiri were two of the more common names, especially Abiamiri.

The fact that five freshmen played in the first game of the year shows another blaring contrast between Tyrone Willingham and former coach Bob Davie. Willingham showed that he is not afraid to play the players he feels are the best and not just who has more experience. It also shows that the coaches feel this freshman class has increased the talent level of the team. It also shows that the coaches have a lot of confidence in these freshmen.

There are still a number of freshmen who could see the field this year. Trevor Laws at defensive tackle posses a world of talent. Mitchell Thomas could play at linebacker with the relative level of inexperience behind the starters. Ambrose Wooden could be another receiver to see playing time this year with the speed and athleticism he possess. Defensive back Tom Zbikowski is yet another player who could see the field this year for his athleticism.

When Brady Quinn went into the game, Pat Hayden made the comment that if they just plan on handing the ball off he thought they should put Pat Dillingham in the game. I however, loved to see Willingham put his confidence in his freshman quarterback who is the future for Notre Dame. Quinn then proceeded to go in and be cool under pressure. He was playing his first college game in front of 80,000+ with his team trailing in the fourth quarter. On the only pass play called, their was a false start and Notre Dame did not pass again with Quinn in the game.

This freshmen class is the real deal and will make things happen while they are at Notre Dame. Look for them to continue to see time as the season progresses.