Proven by play, loyalty, and consistency, Steve Angeli has earned the right to be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback.

In the high-stakes world of college football, the starting quarterback is often the face of the program. This position demands not only exceptional talent but also leadership, poise under pressure, and the ability to execute in clutch moments. For Notre Dame, a program with a storied history and high expectations, selecting the right quarterback is of paramount importance.

In recent seasons, the Fighting Irish have had their fair share of quarterback uncertainty, with a rotating cast of players under center. However, one player has shown through his consistent play, dedication, and loyalty that he is more than ready to step into the role of starting quarterback for Notre Dame: Steve Angeli.

A 6-foot-2, 215-pound sophomore from New Jersey, Angeli came to Notre Dame as a highly touted recruit with a reputation for being a steady and reliable presence in the pocket. While he might not have been the flashiest or most high-profile recruit when he arrived, Angeli’s commitment to the program, his steady development over the past few years, and his performance when given the opportunity have made him the natural choice to lead the offense in 2025 and beyond.

Early Struggles and the Path to Consistency

Steve Angeli’s journey to the starting quarterback role at Notre Dame has not been without challenges. Like many quarterbacks who come to elite programs, Angeli had to adjust to the speed and complexity of college football. He arrived on campus in 2022, just as Notre Dame was undergoing a transition with a new head coach, Marcus Freeman, taking over the reins. The atmosphere was one of change and adaptation, not just for the coaching staff but also for the players, including Angeli.

In his freshman year, Angeli didn’t immediately see playing time as he was behind more seasoned quarterbacks on the roster. However, this period of waiting and learning was invaluable for his development. While he was often relegated to the sidelines, Angeli’s work ethic and commitment to improving were never questioned. He consistently put in the hours in the film room, studied the playbook, and took every opportunity to learn from his more experienced teammates. The few practice reps and occasional mop-up duty he received helped him gain a deeper understanding of Notre Dame’s offensive system, even though his role on game day was limited.

Throughout this period, Angeli displayed a maturity and resilience that many didn’t expect from a freshman. He wasn’t content just being a backup; he knew that to truly earn the starting role, he would have to prove himself on the field. His ability to maintain focus and dedication while waiting for his chance reflected a level of discipline and patience that is often rare among young quarterbacks, particularly at a program like Notre Dame where competition for the starting role is always fierce.

The 2023 Season: First Opportunities and Solid Performances

As the 2023 season unfolded, Steve Angeli began to see more significant opportunities on the field. The starting job was still up for grabs, and the coaching staff was evaluating every quarterback on the roster. It wasn’t long before Angeli was given his shot during a critical point in the season, providing him with the chance to prove that he was more than just a backup.

While Angeli didn’t have the flash or the immediate success of some of the more hyped recruits, his performances were marked by consistency and poise. He didn’t try to force plays or make risky decisions, but instead, he demonstrated a level of maturity that belied his age. On several occasions, he stepped into difficult situations with the game on the line and performed admirably, maintaining the offense’s rhythm and showing that he could execute under pressure.

One of the key moments for Angeli in 2023 came during a key game against a ranked opponent. Notre Dame’s starting quarterback was forced to leave the game due to injury, and Angeli was called upon to lead the offense in a hostile environment. Despite the nerves that would understandably accompany such a scenario, Angeli remained calm and collected. His decision-making was sharp, and he showed confidence in leading his team to a crucial victory. While his stat line may not have been the flashiest, it was his poise and ability to manage the game that stood out to the coaching staff and fans alike.

This performance—and others like it—showed that Angeli could handle the pressure and could step in when needed without being rattled. His ability to execute simple yet effective plays demonstrated his understanding of the offense and his commitment to doing what was necessary for the team to succeed.

Loyalty to the Program: A Player Who Loves Notre Dame

In addition to his play on the field, one of the most compelling reasons why Steve Angeli deserves to be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback is his loyalty to the program. It’s not uncommon for players to transfer when they feel like they are not getting the playing time they believe they deserve, especially at the quarterback position. However, Angeli has shown a level of dedication to Notre Dame that speaks volumes about his character.

Since arriving at Notre Dame, Angeli has expressed nothing but admiration for the program, the coaching staff, and the university. He didn’t seek to transfer when his opportunities were limited; instead, he embraced the process and trusted that his time would come. His loyalty has been an important element of his development as a player. In a time when the transfer portal is increasingly becoming a major factor in college football, Angeli’s commitment to staying and developing at Notre Dame stands out.

“Notre Dame is the place I’ve always wanted to be,” Angeli said in a recent interview. “I’ve put in the work, and I’m just waiting for my opportunity. I love this program and everything it stands for, and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to help this team win.”

This commitment to Notre Dame’s mission and values is exactly what the program needs in a leader. Angeli has displayed the type of loyalty that can serve as a foundation for long-term success. A starting quarterback who is fully committed to the program and its goals is a powerful asset, and Angeli has proven time and again that he has that level of dedication.

The 2024 Spring Game: Angeli’s Coming-Out Party

One of the most significant moments in Steve Angeli’s career came during the 2024 spring game, when he was given the opportunity to showcase his skills in a competitive environment. As the program evaluated all potential starting quarterbacks, Angeli stepped up and put together a solid performance that confirmed what many had suspected: He was more than ready to take on the starting role.

In front of a packed crowd and in a pressure-filled situation, Angeli displayed the steady play and leadership that have become his trademarks. He demonstrated his arm strength, accuracy, and ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Most importantly, he showcased his leadership skills, commanding the offense with confidence and poise. His performance in the spring game solidified his standing as the team’s most reliable and consistent quarterback option.

While Angeli’s numbers in the spring game weren’t necessarily the most dazzling of the group, it was clear that his leadership and ability to make smart, decisive plays had elevated his candidacy for the starting job. He wasn’t trying to be flashy; he was simply executing the game plan and leading his teammates in the way that a starting quarterback should.

The Case for Steve Angeli as Notre Dame’s Starting Quarterback

As the 2025 season approaches, Steve Angeli has earned the right to be Notre Dame’s starting quarterback. His consistent play, loyalty to the program, and steady growth over the past few seasons have made him the natural choice to lead the Irish into the next chapter.

Unlike some quarterbacks who rely on flashy plays or a strong arm to make a name for themselves, Angeli has proven that he can be successful without trying to do too much. His leadership and understanding of the offense allow him to manage the game effectively and help his teammates execute the plays they need to win. His consistency and decision-making are exactly what Notre Dame needs in a quarterback.

Additionally, Angeli’s loyalty to the program and his dedication to improving over the past few seasons have earned him the respect of both his teammates and the coaching staff. Notre Dame’s starting quarterback isn’t just someone who can throw the ball well; it’s someone who can lead with integrity and serve as the face of the program. Angeli embodies those qualities.

With the experience he has gained, the trust his coaches have in him, and the steady leadership he provides, Steve Angeli is more than ready to take on the role of starting quarterback at Notre Dame. As he steps into this role, he will undoubtedly face challenges, but with his proven track record of loyalty, consistency, and performance, he has shown that he is up to the task.

In the end, Steve Angeli’s journey to the starting quarterback position is a testament to his dedication, his work ethic, and his belief in himself and the Notre Dame program. He may not have the flashiest resume or the biggest recruiting pedigree, but through his play and loyalty, he has earned the right to lead the Fighting Irish. As the 2025 season approaches, Notre Dame fans should be excited for what’s to come under the steady hand of Steve Angeli.