Holy Crist: Can Dayne Crist Save Notre Dame?

Come fall, the hopes of a nation of sorts will rest on the shoulders of one man. More singularly, the right shoulder. Missing only the "h", Dayne Crist will soon embark on the season that could either wake up echos of fading glory or add to torment of a recent troubled past.

Crist, a 6'4", 235lb true junior with three remaining years of eligibility, will begin this pivotal season recovering from a torn ACL and having only thrown 20 passes at the collegiate level.

He is expected to pick up where Jimmy Clausen left off, completing passes at a high percentage, limiting turnovers, routinely finding Michael Floyd open for electrifying touchdowns, and keeping the scoreboard moving to make up for a still emerging Irish defense.

In other words, he is expected to be a savior.

Is that fair?

Granted there will be focus on first year head coach Brian Kelly and whether his recent successes at Cincinnati and Central Michigan follow him to South Bend. But even the light of Kelly won't diminish the spotlight shining on the young man under center.

Still, Crist has several factors working for him that his predecessor did not. For starters, the Irish have a load of offensive talent returning. A full stable of running backs, a deep pool of receivers, and what should be a quality offensive line will offer the inexperienced Crist much more help than was afforded Clausen.

Crist will also have the benefit of spending two years in the program. He's seen exactly how bright the spotlight can shine.

He also has the benefit of staunch mediocrity. Clausen took over for Brady Quinn following back-to-back BCS bowl appearances and seasons when the Irish were ranked throughout. Crist takes the reigns following 7-6 and 6-6 seasons, wrapping up the worst three-year period in program history.

It seems fitting that at Notre Dame, home of Touchdown Jesus, that in this year of rebirth the pivotal player would be named Crist.

Despite only appearing in 4 games, completing only half of is 20 attempts for 130 yards with a touchdown and an interception, he showed both the foot speed and arm strength to excel in Brian Kelly's spread offense.

All the tools are in place.

Only time will tell if we will anoint him our savior.

Or crucify him.