Khalid Kareem Ready To Put On The Blue & Gold One Last Time

Practicing the right way has been a theme for Notre Dame football in 2019. 

The Irish haven't been a team that has a reputation for taking days off on the practice field, but it's one who wants to be pushed and pushed hard. 

Notre Dame has had its full attention on Iowa State this week as exams are over and there was a complete focus on the Camping World Bowl. 

"We're practicing the right way," stated captain Khalid Kareem. "Early on, it was finals week. Guys had their attention elsewhere and that was definitely understandable, but with that out of the way, we're full steam ahead. 

"We're focused on Iowa State and focused on beating them." 

The senior defensive end started the year with classmates Daelin Hayes and Julian Okwara teaming up on the other side to form one of the nation's most feared pass rushes. 

However, both players sustained season-ending injuries and the last four games have been played without both players.

The good news for the Irish is they haven't missed a beat. 

"That kind of goes to our preparation," explained Kareem. "Since camp and spring ball, everyone has worked on their craft and their role. Unfortunately, some guys went down and since those guys were preparing the way they should have been the whole time, there was really no drop-off. 

"Credit to their work ethic as to why we are so successful still. It shows our young guys are mature enough and ready to step in."

Kareem might not be the most vocal leader, but he has set the standard all year. 

He'll do that again on Saturday as he won't be sitting out of the bowl game.

"I feel like if you love football, I don't know why you wouldn't be playing," said Kareem. "This is my last opportunity to play with my brothers, who I started this with. I wouldn't give that opportunity up for anything. I guess that's my motivation to keep going."

It's not a shock the future NFL Draft pick is playing on Saturday as he's continuing to set the bar that was set for him.  

"You look back - Q (Quenton Nelson) and Mike (McGlinchey) were two top 10 draft picks. I don't think they questioned not playing. If guys like that didn't sit out, then why should we?"

Kareem admitted there was risk involved, but that's not what leaders do. 

In addition to the reasons Kareem mentioned, Saturday will be a chance to put out one more game of good film. 

"It's in the back of my mind, but if you're playing with the idea of getting hurt, then you'll probably end up getting hurt," Kareem said. "It's still another opportunity for me to put out film for scouts and people out there watching me play." 

Notre Dame has already locked down its third consecutive season of 10 wins, but getting an 11th win is important. 

"As far as the team, I think it will help carry on to next season and give them a little bit of momentum going into that," explained Kareem. 

"For me, it's about putting the cap on an amazing journey here. I've been through the ups and downs. To go out on top would be amazing."