Dec. 30--Add two more losses to Notre Dame's resume.
Four days before Notre Dame takes the field to face Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl, coach Brian Kelly was breaking the news of two subtractions: Safety Max Redfield was sent home to California for "violation of team rules" and cornerback Devin Butler broke his right foot Monday during practice.
Kelly didn't take questions as his players headed to the practice field Tuesday at Scottsdale Community College and he didn't specify which team rule or rules Redfield broke.
"He will not be with us for the bowl," Kelly said.
Redfield has not been kicked off the team, according to a Notre Dame source. Kelly said he will further address those situations Wednesday.
The news, though, is not good for the Irish, who have struggled at the back of their defense all season.
Matthias Farley likely will take Redfield's place in the lineup for Friday's game against Ohio State. Nick Watkins will start in Butler's place and will get some help from Nick Coleman, Kelly said.
Farley started in place of Redfield for the Irish's game against Pittsburgh after the later was suspended for a half after he was called for a targeting penalty against Temple the previous week.
Butler started one game for the injured KeiVarae Russell, who broke his right foot during the Boston College game Nov. 21. He has 11 tackles and a fumble recovery in 12 games.
Redfield was third on the Irish with 64 tackles, including one for a loss. He also had one sack and one interception. The former five-star recruit has struggled at times this season, though, after breaking his thumb against Texas during the season-opener.
pskrbina@tribpub.com
