Notre Dame football players are making their way back to South Bend Thursday to resume preparations for the National Championship game against Alabama on January 7th.

The Irish were off for six days for the Christmas holiday. It was a good time to re-charge as now the serious work begins.

"Upset to leave my family and friends so soon but thankful for the once in a lifetime opportunity to play for a national championship!," wrote Irish receiver TJ Jones on twitter.

"Didn't get to see everyone I wanted 2 see at the crib but there will always b next time. It's that time now 2 focus n get that crystal ball!" tweeted senior running back Theo Riddick.

Notre Dame will be in game week mode starting on Friday with its most important practices of the bowl season to prepare for Alabama. The Irish practice Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday in South Bend.

After a day off on New Year's Day, Notre Dame will fly to Ft. Lauderdale on Wednesday Jan 2nd. The Irish will have three practices in Florida on January 3rd, 4th and 5th.