Postgame Thoughts for Notre Dame Blue-Gold
The 2025 Notre Dame Blue-Gold Game, held on April 12, concluded the Fighting Irish’s spring football practices with a 76–31 victory for the Blue Team. While the lopsided score favored the offense, the primary focus was on evaluating the quarterback competition and assessing the development of young talent.
Quarterback Competition
The quarterback position remains a focal point for Notre Dame, with rising sophomore CJ Carr, junior Steve Angeli, and freshman Kenny Minchey vying for the starting role. Carr, playing for both teams, completed 14 of 19 passes for 170 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Angeli started for the Blue Team, finishing with 17 of 25 completions for 228 yards and two touchdowns. Minchey, representing the Gold Team, threw for 123 yards, one touchdown, and one interception on 12 of 19 passing. Head coach Marcus Freeman expressed satisfaction with the quarterbacks’ performances, noting their decision-making and progression throughout spring practices.
Freshman Standouts
Several freshmen showcased their potential during the game. Wide receiver Micah Gilbert had five receptions for 79 yards and two touchdowns, including a 29-yard score from Carr. Running back Aneyas Williams demonstrated impressive vision and balance, scoring a touchdown on the ground. Defensively, linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa exhibited sideline-to-sideline speed and physicality, while cornerback Karson Hobbs impressed with his coverage skills. These performances highlight the depth and talent emerging within the freshman class.
Defensive Observations
The defense faced challenges against the high-scoring offense but showed promise in key areas. Linebackers Drayk Bowen and Luke Talich each recorded seven tackles, with Talich also securing an interception. Defensive end RJ Oben contributed with a strip-sack, demonstrating the pass-rushing capabilities of the defensive line. Despite the high-scoring nature of the game, these individual efforts suggest a foundation for a competitive defense in the upcoming season.
Team Development
Head coach Marcus Freeman emphasized the importance of the spring game in evaluating the team’s progress. He noted that the game provided valuable insights into player development and team dynamics, setting the stage for the team’s preparation leading up to the regular season. The performance of both returning players and newcomers indicates a promising outlook for Notre Dame football as they move forward.
In conclusion, while the Blue-Gold Game’s outcome was not the primary focus, it served as an important platform for assessing player performances and team development. The quarterback competition remains open, and the emergence of talented freshmen adds depth to the roster. As the Fighting Irish transition into the offseason, the insights gained from this spring showcase will be instrumental in shaping the team’s approach to the 2025 season.
