Following its worst loss ever to USC on Saturday, the Irish are now 1-7.

The 38-0 shutout officially eliminated Notre Dame from bowl contention.

Now the Irish will have a week off to regroup before playing its final four games.

Head coach Charlie Weis says playing younger guys over seniors is always a consideration towards building towards next season.

But Weis says its also unfair to bench 5th-year seniors who are giving everything on the field are amongst the team's best players.

He says there is a fine line between planning for the future and treating the seniors the right way.

Notre Dame will resume its schedule against Navy in 12 days at the Stadium. It will be the first of three straight home games.

Weis believes despite the team's record everyone has something to play for. He says 5th year senior who are trying to make it to the NFL, clearing have a lot to prove.

He also says those within the program are playing for the future of the program and still have a lot of motivation themselves.