We are now in the single digit mark in the countdown to the Notre Dame football opener vs. Michigan, as we are officially nine days away. What better way to celebrate this milestone than by looking at the best players to ever wear No. 9 for the Irish?

You only have to put up with fluff off-season articles like this for NINE more days, which is a relief for everyone. Every off-season feels like the longest one you’ve ever experienced, but the anticipation surrounding the Notre Dame football season opener has made these last seven months slowly and painfully drag bye.

With there just being nine days until kickoff, why not look at arguably one of the most stacked jersey numbers in the history of the program? You might be surprised to learn that No. 75 has been worn by seven All-Americans for Notre Dame, the most of any number. Nine is tied for second with the numbers 32 and 85.

However, in terms of popular names and fan-favorites who made an impact for the Irish and in some cases the NFL, No. 9 is pretty hard to top.

Here’s a look at some of the best players to to ever wear No. 9 for the Irish.