Notre Dame defensive lineman Howard Cross III has been named the Bednarik Award Player of the Week for his performance in the Irish’s win over Duke.

Cross finished the game with 13 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles and 1 sack. He helped limit Duke to just 14 points on the night, including 0 in the first half.

Cross also played with a sinus infection vs. the Blue Devils, he told reporters after the game.

It was a career-best performance for Cross, who hadn’t record multiple tackles for loss in a single game since 2021. Cross’ previous career-high for total tackles in a game was 11.

This is Cross’ 5th season with the Fighting Irish and his third year as a key contributor on Notre Dame’s defense line.

Notre Dame’s defense is tied for 9th nationally in yards-per-play allowed at 4.31. Cross’ emergence has been a big reason for Notre Dame’s success this season.

The Fighting Irish will face Louisville on Saturday.