College Career
In 2001, Grant went to the University of Notre Dame to play football for the Fighting Irish while majoring in sociology and computer applications. He made few appearances during his freshman year, playing in just five games under coach Bob Davie during a 5–6 season. Tyrone Willingham was named head coach for Grant's sophomore season and praised Grant for his attitude:
| “ | ...he has been most pleasing in not only his performance but his attitude. I am a big person on attitude, how a young man works at doing anything that he attempts to do. Ryan really wants to be a great player, and he works every day toward that goal. So it's exciting when you have a young man that has that kind of attitude.
He's not limited by attitude. He has some ability, too. It's exciting to work with him and kind of incorporate him into our total offense. |
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—Tyrone Willingham |
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In running back Julius Jones' absence, Willingham gave Grant starts for all twelve games in 2002, and Grant rushed for over 1,000 yards with 9 touchdowns, including four games with 100+ yards. Grant's best game during his time at Notre Dame came against Air Force, as he gained 190 yards rushing and a touchdown in a 21–14 win. Notre Dame finished the season at 10–3 and ranked #17 on both the AP Poll and Coaches' Poll.
The 2003 season saw Grant split time with Julius Jones. After starting the first five games, Grant only managed 242 rushing yards before being benched.Jones took over in the fifth game and ran for 262 yards and 2 touchdowns against Pitt, a school record, in a 20–14 victory. Grant did not start any of the final seven games, and rushed for 268 yards in that time, leaving him with 510 yards for his junior year.
For his senior year, Grant was named a team captain, but he split time with running back, Darius Walker. Playing in nine games, Grant only gained over 100 yards once, with 112 yards and 2 touchdowns in a 27–9 win over Navy. After injuring his hamstring, Grant's playing time was limited and Walker took over the starting job at running back. Grant finished the year with 515 yards and 5 touchdowns. In Grant's final year, Notre Dame finished 6–6. For his collegiate career, Grant ran for a total of 2,220 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Read more about this topic: Ryan Grant
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