Debunking Misconceptions: Analyzing the Notre Dame Quarterback Battle
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s quarterback competition for the 2025 season has been a topic of intense discussion among fans and analysts alike. With the departure of Riley Leonard to the NFL Draft, the team finds itself at a crossroads, seeking a new leader under center. While various narratives have emerged regarding the contenders, it’s essential to critically examine these perspectives to understand the dynamics of the competition.
The Contenders
Notre Dame’s quarterback room for the 2025 season comprises four individuals:
- Steve Angeli – A redshirt junior with experience, having played in 21 games and started in the 2023 Sun Bowl, leading the team to a decisive victory over Oregon State.
- CJ Carr – A highly touted recruit from the 2024 class, known for his strong arm and potential.
- Kenny Minchey – A redshirt sophomore with a dual-threat capability, offering mobility and a strong arm.
- Blake Hebert – A true freshman entering the program with promise but lacking collegiate experience.
Each of these quarterbacks brings unique strengths to the table, making the competition intriguing.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
1. “Steve Angeli is the clear frontrunner due to his experience.”
While experience is invaluable, it’s not the sole determinant for the starting position. Angeli’s familiarity with the system and past performances, such as his Sun Bowl victory, showcase his capabilities. However, the coaching staff must also consider the potential and upside of the younger quarterbacks. As noted by ESPN, while Angeli has experience, the team may opt for a quarterback with a higher ceiling .
2. “CJ Carr is the future and should start immediately.”
Carr’s potential is undeniable, and he represents the future of the program. However, thrusting him into the starting role without adequate preparation could be detrimental. As highlighted by Fighting Irish Wire, while Carr has shown promise, the team must balance his development with the immediate needs of the program .
3. “Kenny Minchey lacks the polish to be a starter.”
Minchey’s dual-threat ability and strong arm make him a compelling candidate. His mobility adds a dynamic element to the offense, and with proper coaching, he could refine his skills to become a formidable starter. As noted by One Foot Down, Minchey’s athleticism and potential should not be overlooked .
4. “Blake Hebert is too inexperienced to compete.”
While Hebert is a true freshman, his high school accolades and potential suggest he could be a future star. The coaching staff must evaluate his progress during practices and scrimmages to determine if he’s ready to contribute sooner than expected.
The Coaching Perspective
Head coach Marcus Freeman and quarterbacks coach Gino Guidugli have emphasized the importance of evaluating all quarterbacks on the roster. As Freeman stated, the team will not pursue a transfer quarterback, focusing on developing the current talent . Guidugli has expressed interest in seeing how the competition unfolds, noting that each quarterback brings something different to the table .
The Notre Dame quarterback battle is far from settled, and it’s crucial to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. While experience plays a role, the potential and development of each quarterback are equally important. The coaching staff’s commitment to evaluating all options ensures that the best decision will be made for the team’s success in the 2025 season.
