The 1953 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team represented the University of Notre Dame as an independent during the 1953 college football season. Led by Frank Leahy in his 11th and final season as head coach, the Fighting Irish compiled a record of 9–0–1. John Lattner won the Heisman Trophy although he did not even lead the Irish in passing, rushing, receiving or scoring. Lattner held the Notre Dame record for all-purpose yards until Vagas Ferguson broke it in 1979.

Schedule

Roster (Asterisk * Denotes Offensive Starter)

Game Summaries

Oklahoma

Don Penza blocked and recovered a kick to set up one touchdown and recovered a fumble that led to another Notre Dame score.

Team players drafted into the NFL

The following players were drafted into professional football following the season.

Awards and Honors