Love those Fighting Irish, I went to Texas A&M, both schools have great colors to quilt with. Your quilt is wonderful!
I think ND in alternating blocks & rows like this would be subtle & classy.
ND X ND X ND
X ND X ND X
I would use a gold metallic thread & thinly embroider the ND to make it pop. The circles have a life of their own due to the pattern & need no highlights. IMHO
hugs,
dj