Ruffer beats out Tausch

Published Sep. 2, 2010 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

David Ruffer will be Notre Dame's No. 1 kicker for the home opener against Purdue on Saturday after beating out sophomore Nick Tausch.

Taush made a school-record 14 straight field goals during a stretch last season but missed the final three games after injuring his foot.

Ruffer, who transferred to Notre Dame from William & Mary after the 2007-08 school year, didn't miss a field goal in five attempts a year ago. Along with field goals, he will also kick off.

Coach Brian Kelly also listed tight end Mike Ragone as ''doubtful'' for Saturday's game. Ragone, a senior from Camden, N.J., is still experiencing headaches, vertigo issues and an ear infection. He spent the night in the hospital earlier in the preseason while recovering from heat illness.