Kenny Minchey, a sophomore quarterback for Notre Dame, is actively competing for the starting position in the 2025 season. Joining fellow quarterbacks Steve Angeli and CJ Carr
The University of Notre Dame’s football team is entering a pivotal phase as the 2025 season approaches, with the quarterback position at the forefront of discussions. Three primary contenders—sophomore Steve Angeli, sophomore Kenny Minchey, and freshman CJ Carr—are actively vying for the starting role. Each brings unique attributes and experiences to the competition, making it one of the most intriguing storylines of Notre Dame’s spring practices.
Steve Angeli: Experience and Poise
Steve Angeli, a 6-foot-2, 205-pound sophomore, has been with Notre Dame since 2022. He made his collegiate debut against UNLV in October 2022, appearing in two games that season. In 2023, Angeli served as the backup quarterback, playing in nine games and recording 504 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and one interception. He also contributed 27 rushing yards over eight attempts. Angeli’s most notable performance came in the 2023 Sun Bowl, where he made his first start, throwing for 232 yards and three touchdowns in a decisive 40-8 victory over Oregon State. In the 2024 Orange Bowl against Penn State, Angeli stepped in for the injured Riley Leonard, completing six of seven passes for 44 yards and aiding in securing a field goal before halftime.
Kenny Minchey: Athleticism and Potential
Kenny Minchey, also a sophomore, joined Notre Dame in 2023. Known for his athleticism and mobility, Minchey offers a dynamic playmaking ability that could add a new dimension to the Fighting Irish’s offense. His agility allows him to extend plays and evade pressure, making him a challenging quarterback to game plan against. While he may not have the same level of experience as Angeli or the high-profile status of Carr, Minchey’s adaptability and skill set make him a serious contender in the quarterback race.
CJ Carr: High Expectations and Legacy
CJ Carr, a 6-foot-3, 209-pound freshman, arrived at Notre Dame in December 2023 as an early enrollee. The grandson of former Michigan Wolverines head coach Lloyd Carr, CJ carries a legacy of football excellence. In high school at Saline High School in Michigan, he amassed 2,685 passing yards and 26 touchdowns as a junior and 2,754 yards with 24 touchdowns as a senior. Carr’s potential was evident during spring practices in 2024, where he showcased his arm strength and accuracy. Despite an elbow injury that limited his playtime in the 2024 season, Carr’s talent has positioned him as a leading candidate for the starting quarterback role in 2025.
The Quarterback Competition: A Balanced Assessment
Head coach Marcus Freeman has emphasized that the quarterback competition is open, with no clear frontrunner. This approach allows each candidate to demonstrate their skills and leadership qualities during spring practices and the Blue-Gold Game. The coaching staff is assessing not only on-field performance but also the ability to lead the team and adapt to Notre Dame’s offensive strategies.
The Blue-Gold Game, scheduled for April 12, 2025, serves as a critical evaluation point. The game will feature an adjusted format, with offenses wearing blue jerseys and defenses in white. Quarterbacks will be non-live, wearing green jerseys to prevent injury. Coaches Mike Denbrock and Chris Ash will oversee the respective units, providing fans and analysts with insights into each quarterback’s capabilities under game conditions.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the 2025 Season
The decision on the starting quarterback will significantly impact Notre Dame’s offensive strategy and success in the 2025 season. As spring practices progress, each quarterback has the opportunity to solidify their position through consistent performance, leadership, and adaptability to the team’s needs. The competition is not just about individual talent but also about fitting into Notre Dame’s broader football philosophy and goals.
The quarterback battle at Notre Dame is a testament to the program’s depth and talent. Steve Angeli’s experience, Kenny Minchey’s athleticism, and CJ Carr’s high potential create a dynamic and unpredictable competition. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching as spring practices unfold, leading up to the Blue-Gold Game, where the contenders will have their final opportunity to make a case for the starting role. Regardless of who emerges as the starter, Notre Dame’s commitment to excellence ensures that the quarterback position will be in capable hands for the upcoming season.
