SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Notre Dame tackle Brennan Curtin is not working out with the team as it prepares for the Toyota Gator Bowl, and coach Tyrone Willingham gave no reason for the absence.

"Curtin is not with us right now,'' Willingham said after practice Sunday, without elaborating.

Questions about Curtin were referred to the university's public relations office. Spokesman Michael Garvey said Monday the school had no comment. A message was left at Curtin's dorm room.

Notre Dame (10-2) plays North Carolina State (10-3) in the Gator Bowl on Jan. 1. The Irish began practicing for the game Saturday.

Curtin starts at offensive right tackle. Willingham said it's not clear whether backup Jim Molinaro would start in Curtin's place.

"We're going to see,'' the coach said. "Jim has been our substitute at both tackle spots all year, so we'll see exactly how we work it out.''