Notre Dame C Dan Wenger ruled out for season after 2 concussions

Irish C Wenger out for season with concussions

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Notre Dame fifth-year senior center Dan Wenger won’t play this season following two concussions in preseason camp.

Wenger, of Coral Springs, Fla., was evaluated by a specialist at the University of Michigan on Wednesday. Neither the specialist nor the school cleared Wenger to return, coach Brian Kelly said Thursday.

Wenger, who has appeared in 29 games during his career with 19 starts, has not played this season and his career could be over. Braxston Cave is the starter at center.

Kelly said it is unclear if Wenger would apply or be eligible for a sixth year, although it has been discussed. Kelly said he would check with the school’s compliance department.

Kelly also announced Thursday that Nick Tausch will kick off Saturday against Pittsburgh, while sophomore David Ruffer will continue kicking field goals.

Ruffer, a walk-on who is 13 for 13 on field goals over two seasons, had also been handling kick-off duties. He beat Tausch out for the starting kicker’s job in camp although Tausch set the school record by making 14 straight field goals last season.