An ‘extremely tough’ disclosure regarding the next starting quarterback is made by Notre Dame’s OC.

In the world of college football, the announcement of the starting quarterback is a moment that commands attention, sparks debates, and often defines the trajectory of a season. For Notre Dame, one of the most storied programs in college football history, this decision is even more impactful, as the Fighting Irish consistently aim for championship contention. Thus, when Offensive Coordinator (OC) Jared Parker referred to the decision regarding the next starting quarterback as “extremely tough,” it not only caught the attention of fans and analysts alike but also opened up a deep discussion about the program’s current quarterback situation, team dynamics, and future aspirations.

In this article, we will explore the ramifications of such a disclosure, looking at the factors that led to Parker’s characterization of the decision, the candidates involved in the quarterback battle, the broader implications for Notre Dame football, and the possible outcomes of the decision moving forward. Understanding the challenges in naming a starting quarterback at a high-profile program like Notre Dame, especially under such a tough and uncertain process, is key to appreciating the significance of this moment for the program.

The Weight of the Decision: Why It’s ‘Extremely Tough’

When a team is deciding who will lead the offense, the consequences of the decision are far-reaching. In a program like Notre Dame, where expectations are always high and the pressure is constant, the quarterback position is perhaps the most critical. The choice of the starting quarterback can have a profound impact on team morale, offensive strategy, and overall season performance. For OC Jared Parker, the decision was made even more difficult by the talent and potential of the candidates in the running for the role.

Notre Dame has long prided itself on its ability to recruit and develop elite quarterbacks, with several former players going on to have successful careers in the NFL. The position is one of the most scrutinized in all of college football, and when the stakes are high, making the right choice becomes a near-impossible task. Parker’s comment about the difficulty of the decision likely reflects several factors, from the depth of the quarterback room to the specific challenges faced by each candidate.

A key aspect of this decision is the fact that Notre Dame is entering a season with championship aspirations. The Fighting Irish have the potential to contend for major bowl games or even the College Football Playoff, and a wrong choice at quarterback can derail these ambitions. Additionally, Parker and Head Coach Marcus Freeman are likely considering both short-term and long-term outcomes—balancing immediate needs with the development of the program’s future.

The Candidates: A Look at the Contenders

In many high-profile programs, the decision about who should be the starting quarterback comes down to a battle between multiple highly touted recruits, transfers, or established players. For Notre Dame, the quarterback room in the lead-up to the 2025 season featured a mix of experienced players and new talent. Let’s explore the major candidates vying for the starting role and the strengths and weaknesses that made the decision so difficult for Parker and Freeman.

Sam Hartman (Transfer from Wake Forest)

One of the most significant names in the quarterback race for Notre Dame in 2025 was Sam Hartman, the transfer from Wake Forest. Hartman had an incredibly successful career at Wake Forest, where he developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC and set numerous school records. His experience, leadership, and big-game performances made him an attractive option for Notre Dame, which was looking for stability and production at the quarterback position.

Hartman’s experience was one of his greatest assets. His time in the ACC prepared him for the bright lights of a program like Notre Dame, where expectations are high, and the pressure is relentless. He brings with him a wealth of experience in running a high-powered offense, which would be crucial for Notre Dame’s chances at competing in a tough schedule. However, Hartman was not a perfect candidate.

One potential concern was his ability to adapt to Notre Dame’s offensive scheme. While his experience was a major advantage, it was also possible that the system at Wake Forest, with its unique style of play, was very different from what Parker and Freeman wanted to implement at Notre Dame. Additionally, Hartman’s age and previous injuries could factor into whether the coaching staff felt confident he could maintain a high level of performance throughout the season.

Tyler Buchner (Sophomore)

Tyler Buchner, the promising sophomore quarterback who had been on Notre Dame’s roster for a couple of years, was another strong contender. Buchner showed flashes of brilliance during his time in limited action, particularly with his ability to run the football and create plays with his legs. However, there were concerns about his consistency as a passer, which had yet to fully develop.

Buchner had a great deal of potential, but he had yet to prove he could lead an offense consistently at the college football level. His ability to stay healthy, improve his passing accuracy, and read defenses were key areas that needed development. However, his mobility and playmaking ability made him an exciting prospect for the future. His chemistry with the team and his familiarity with the playbook were also strong points in his favor.

Buchner’s young age and potential for growth made him a solid option for the future of the program, but the question remained whether he was ready to lead a team with championship aspirations this season. His lack of starting experience, combined with his inconsistencies, made the decision a difficult one for Parker.

Steve Angeli (True Freshman)

Steve Angeli, the true freshman quarterback, added another layer of complexity to the situation. As a highly touted recruit, Angeli’s talent and high ceiling made him an intriguing option. However, his inexperience and lack of college-level competition made him an unlikely choice to start right away, especially on a team with such high expectations.

Angeli’s recruitment was part of Notre Dame’s long-term vision for the quarterback position. His natural talent and strong arm were undeniable, but there were significant questions about whether he could make the transition to college football so quickly. Starting a freshman at quarterback is always a risk, especially when competing against experienced players like Hartman and Buchner. However, Angeli’s development could also represent the future of Notre Dame football, and the coaching staff may have seen something in his growth that made him a potential candidate in the long run.

The Challenges of the Decision: Balancing Experience vs. Potential

As Parker admitted, the decision regarding the starting quarterback was “extremely tough” because of the unique attributes of each candidate. Hartman’s experience and leadership, Buchner’s mobility and upside, and Angeli’s raw talent all presented compelling arguments for why each player could be the one to lead the Fighting Irish.

For a program like Notre Dame, where the season’s goals are clear—championship contention and national recognition—the need for immediate results is critical. In this case, Parker and Freeman had to weigh the benefit of starting an experienced quarterback like Hartman, who could provide an instant upgrade, against the potential future development of a player like Buchner or Angeli. If they went with Hartman, they were betting on stability and leadership, but if they went with Buchner or Angeli, they were betting on long-term growth and potential.

The coaching staff had to carefully consider how each player fit into the team’s overall strategy and how they would handle pressure in big games. It wasn’t just about choosing the most talented player; it was about determining who would give Notre Dame the best chance to win now, while also setting the team up for the future.

The Broader Implications for Notre Dame Football

The decision about the starting quarterback has broader implications for the direction of the Notre Dame program. In a program where success is measured by national championships, bowl games, and NFL draft picks, choosing the right quarterback is paramount. The right choice could catapult the team to new heights, while the wrong one could lead to frustration and missed opportunities.

In addition to the on-field impact, the decision will also have a significant effect on team morale and the locker room. Quarterbacks are not just leaders on the field; they are often the emotional and vocal leaders in the huddle. The player chosen will need to command the respect of his teammates and handle the pressure that comes with being the face of the program. This leadership dynamic is essential to the success of the entire team, and any discord or lack of confidence in the starting quarterback could create issues behind the scenes.