Ian Book Turning the Page to Stanford, Not Decision

On Saturday evening the Irish celebrated a 40-7 win over Boston College on Senior Day.

The victory was one of the final chapters of the legacy of the 2016 recruiting class as the Irish completed back-to-back undefeated seasons at home - the third-longest since Notre Dame Stadium opened in 1930.

"Everyone just believed in each other and never game up," Notre Dame quarterback Ian Book stated following the game. "The first year, we went 4-8 and had great seasons after that. This group doesn't give up. I love all these guys and it's crazy how time has really flown by. We keep working hard and we know what we can do. We've made some awesome memories." 

While the game turned one-sided, it was still an emotional night for the senior class as they took the field for the final time. 

"It was emotional and it's a night we're all going to remember," explained Book. "When you come in with a class, you bond really strong and we've gone through so much together on and off the field. It's crazy it's already been four years."

Book led the Irish once again as he completed 26-of-40 passes for 239 yards and three scores while rushing for 66 yards. 

The senior from El Dorado Hills (Calif.) found classmates Chase Claypool and Chris Finke for scores, which added to the special night.

"We wanted to get all the seniors in the end zone on Senior Night," Book stated. "It's a night we'll never forget and being able to get those two in there is awesome." 

Were the three touchdowns Book's last in Notre Dame Stadium? 

Book wasn't ready to give an answer with one more regular-season game on deck.

"We'll see," said Book. "Regardless, it's a special night to have my family and everyone's family down there. It's emotional. We'll see. We have another game to go." 

Entering the field, Book was extremely animated as he let some emotions loose while he greeted his parents. 

While he doesn't have a decision, Book did admit he took it all in on Saturday night. 

"I try to do that every game," stated Book. "I had my family down there soaking it all in. You never know what can happen, so I wanted to take it all in and enjoy it with my family."

Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly will look to keep Book on the roster in 2020 and plans to recruit him over the next few weeks. 

"You know I'm going to recruit him," Kelly stated postgame. "I want him back. But that's not my decision. But I'll certainly recruit him."

As for a decision, Book isn't focused on it.

"Beat Stanford," said Book. "That's what we have to do. We have to go do that and see who we play in a bowl game."