Irish look to running back Cam McDaniel to help take on Michigan State defense

NOTRE DAME, Ind.-- Fighting Irish running back Cam McDaniel made it clear last Saturday at Purdue that little can come between him and the end zone. He talked to ABC 57 about his role in the win over the Boilermakers and what he would like to improve on this week against Michigan State.

 

McDaniel says he would like to see himself get more comfortable in the offense with their new plays and he says he would like to involve himself more in the passing game this week against Michigan State.

 

"Obviously there's stuff I need to work on individually as a back, but it was enough to get the job done last Saturday," McDaniels said.

 

He definitely got the job done against Purdue.

 

"I'm just kind of ruthless about anything that's going to get in my way, that's going to keep me from the end zone," McDaniel said.

 

Last Saturday was McDaniel's moment to shine. The running back totaled 56 yards with 16 carries against the Boilermaker defense.

 

"It was just an opportunity for me that presented itself at that moment. I just had to be ready, and I was ready in my mind. I knew that I was capable of getting the job done and just went in and executed," McDaniel said.

 

His teammates are also echoing his great performance, saying they can count on him to get the job done.

 

"He's a guy that can get those tough yards when you need it as you can see at the end of the Purdue game. He was able to close them out with some big runs and runs between the tackles," Irish quarterback Tommy Rees said.

 

Although he may lack the quickness that running backs Amir Carlisle and George Atkinson III have, McDaniel uses his strength and physical abilities to break through defensive fronts.

 

"I would describe my running style as tough and elusive," McDaniel said.

 

That running style could be the key to breaking down the number one defense in the country this weekend. McDaniel has a total of 29 carries and has rushed for 125 yards this season, putting him just behind Amir Carlisle's 30 carries.