Notre Dame up for the challenge against Virginia Tech

When there's a high-profile game like Notre Dame vs Virginia Tech, you often hear the cliche 'it's just another game.' Both teams are approaching it that way, but there's definitely confidence on both sides of the match up.

As Notre Dame and Virginia Tech run into Lane Stadium, they both know just how impressive the other teams have proven to be.

"The most complete and talented team we've played to date. They really have things clicking in all areas of the game. So it's going to be a tremendous challenge," said Justin Fuente, VT head coach.

The X's and O's are only part of the equation.

The rest comes down to execution from athletes playing in front of an electric crowd at Lane Stadium and a national audience watching at home.

But for the Hokies all that attention only makes it more exciting.

"It's less nerves because at the end of the day it's just football. A lot of people been playing football for a long time. But we're definitely excited to smother them," said Caleb Farley, defensive back for Virginia Tech.

"I know the Hokies are going to be jumping so it's going to be tough for them. We're used to it here, so it's going to be a good game," said Javonn Quillen, defensive back for Virginia Tech.

Though the Hokies have as much confidence as you'd expect the Irish welcome it because they bring the same mentality, even on the road.

"It's about our competitive nature. It's about wanting to be the better team in a stage like that. You want everybody to be going against you. You want everybody going against you so you can prove everybody wrong and have everybody shut up. That's where you want to be. You want to be in that pressure because it's a privilege," said Troy Pride, Notre Dame defensive back.

"Focus on running our plays and running our stuff, and eliminating the noise at the same time. We know it's going to be loud, but it's going to be fun and it's going to be energetic. It's going to be a great college football night," said Ian Book, Notre Dame Quarterback.

The players can't wait for the opportunity to see who is best under the biggest pressure, but everyone involved knows this ranked matchup will come down to composure and preparation.

"The stage shouldn't change how we prepare or play. We've played some really good people on big stages and we'll be ready for this one," Fuente said.