Notre Dame is the team to beat. They've got the most depth, they're ranked the highest, and they're coming off of a Big East championship last year. It should be an awesome challenge to get up there and race against them.

I think it's a combination of nerves and excitement. If we can channel that into something positive, I think they will be fine.

We don't have the most talent, we don't have the most depth, but I think we're better than what we were a year ago. I hope they are going to prove me right.

We've had to deal with some problems, but I don't think I'll have to motivate these guys. They're disappointed about the meet [with Notre Dame], and they've really shown some resolve this week.

We're definitely not exactly where we need to be from a performance standpoint. But I'm real proud of these guys. This is a very close team, and I'm extremely confident about this weekend.

Regardless if it is a Big Ten opponent or a non-Big Ten opponent, this time of the year the focus is still to get up and race. I'm awfully excited to see where we are right now in terms of racing. I'm looking forward to see what kind of speed we have right now. There's going to be some good competition out there.