With five receptions in a much-needed win over Pittsburgh, Notre Dame tight end Kyle Rudolph had yet another solid, consistent game that’s become his signature.
Unfortunately for the Irish, a lingering injury could sideline the junior for at least a week if not longer.
Rudolph aggravated his troublesome hamstring at some point during the game and was held of the final offensive series because of it. Following his team’s second win of the season, head coach Brian Kelly intimated that it might be time to shelve the TE and give the leg some at least a week’s worth of time to heal.
“He didn’t play the last series because he’s struggling,” Kelly said. “He’s been struggling all year. He’s a tough kid, he wants to keep going out there
“It’s probably at that point where you have to make a decision to shut him down for a week or you keep playing through it.”
Rudolph, who many have pegged as a first-round pick in the NFL draft if he decides to leave eligibility on the table after this season, is third on the Irish with 28 receptions for 328 yards. His three receiving touchdowns are tied for the team lead.
If Rudolph were to be sidelined, senior Mike Ragone would likely slide into the starting job.