Book Focused on Bowl Game Despite Decision & New OC

Notre Dame captain Ian Book knows he has a decision to make on his future, but the senior quarterback isn't focused on it as the Irish are set to begin preparations for the Camping World Bowl on Saturday. 

"It's a big process," stated Book. "You take everything into consideration. I talk a lot with my family and my mentors, I truly trust. At the end of the day, we still have one more game this season and that's what my main focus is. Just trying to focus on Iowa State and go down there to get a big bowl win for this program and team to end this year the right way." 

On the flip side, the California native is also waiting on his NFL grade to come back so he can make an informed decision on his future. 

Book also admitted some stress comes with making a call on his future, but beating Iowa State is priority No. 1. 

"I feel a lot of the pressure, but at the same time, I think I've answered the same every time," explained Book. "I'm focused on Iowa State. I'm focused on my team. 

"I hear the pressure, but I don't feel it. This season isn't over yet. I want to win a bowl game with this team. Once that's over, I'll figure everything out." 

Saturday will be different for the Notre Dame offense as offensive coordinator Chip Long will not be on the practice field. 

Long and Notre Dame parted ways and it will be on Book to make sure it's a seamless transition for whoever runs the offense. 

"We're going to prepare the same way we have," Book said. "All the coaches are going to do a great job getting us ready for this game. At the end of the day, it's all about us playing for each other and that's how we win games. 

"That's when we blow out teams - when we are playing for each other and having fun. I don't think it's going to be this huge change. Just keep doing what we're doing and playing for each other. Trust the coaches are going to get it right because they are. 

"I'm extremely excited tomorrow and execute what they want us to do." 

The Irish are close to getting over the hump and when it comes to the big picture, Book feels the next offensive coordinator at Notre Dame needs to possess leadership qualities.

"Leadership," stated Book. "Being a leader everyone trusts in. Someone all of us can go to and that's there for us. Just going to put us in the right situations. Someone we trust, especially as a quarterback. 

"There's nothing better than when I know exactly what someone is going to call and we're on the same page. Whoever it may be, we'll develop that. That's what it's all about." 

Book was also grateful for his time with Long.

It was Long who gave Book his shot last season, which the California native has run with and never looked back. 

"He's the one who gave me my opportunity," said Book. "I haven't played a game here without him. I couldn't thank him enough. When he's the one who gave you your shot, your lifelong dream to play college football, you can't short that at all."