Fighting Irish Forge Ahead: Spring Momentum Propels Notre Dame Towards 2025
As the echoes of spring practice fade across the Notre Dame campus, a palpable sense of optimism and anticipation hangs in the air. Head Coach Marcus Freeman has concluded a productive spring session, laying a robust foundation for the 2025 football season. While the departure of key players to the NFL and the transfer portal always presents challenges, the Fighting Irish appear to be exiting spring with significant momentum, fueled by emerging talent, strategic coaching adjustments, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The most closely watched development throughout the spring has undoubtedly been the quarterback competition. With the graduation of Riley Leonard, a void opened at the helm of the Notre Dame offense, igniting a fierce battle among the contenders. While upperclassman Steve Angeli, who possessed some game experience, was initially considered a frontrunner, the coaching staff has seemingly narrowed the focus to the younger, yet promising duo of Kenny Minchey and CJ Carr. This decision, which led to Angeli entering the transfer portal, signals a clear direction for the program, entrusting the keys to the offense to quarterbacks with high potential.
Freeman addressed the quarterback situation directly, emphasizing that both Minchey and Carr have demonstrated the ability to lead the team. He highlighted their significant improvement throughout spring practice, noting that while limited repetitions made it difficult for one to definitively separate themselves, both have showcased the necessary skills and decision-making prowess. The coaching staff intends to continue this competition into fall camp, creating pressure situations in practice to simulate game-day intensity. This approach aims to ensure that the eventual starter is battle-tested and ready for the opening clash against Miami. Freeman specifically pointed to decision-making, ball delivery, playmaking ability when plays break down, and taking care of the football as key evaluation criteria.
Beyond the quarterback position, the spring offered encouraging signs across the board. The offensive line, a unit that boasts significant experience with returning starters like Billy Schrauth, Aamil Wagner, Ashton Craig (recovering from injury), Charles Jagusah, and Anthonie Knapp, appears to be a strength. These players, all of whom have started multiple games, provide a blend of talent and crucial big-game experience. Coach Rudolph’s recruiting efforts have also bolstered the depth of the offensive line, with promising young players who enjoyed productive springs.
Defensively, the Irish face the challenge of replacing key contributors like Rylie Mills and Howard Cross in the interior. However, Freeman expressed confidence in the depth and talent of the defensive line. At defensive end, the return of the majority of last year’s production, excluding RJ Oben, is a significant boost. While Boubacar Traore and Jordan Botelho were sidelined this spring, their past production is well-established. The emergence of players like Donovan Hinish, Gabriel Rubio, Jason Onye, Jared Dawson, Elijah Hughes, Armel Mukam, and Sean Sevillano at defensive tackle provides a collection of players capable of collectively filling the void left by Mills and Cross. Freeman emphasized that the focus is on replacing production through multiple players rather than finding direct replacements.
The spring also provided opportunities for younger players to step up and showcase their potential. Cornerback Karson Hobbs, who had a standout spring and Blue-Gold game, appears ready to take on a more significant role in the secondary. His performance demonstrated the growth and development within the program, highlighting the coaching staff’s ability to cultivate talent. The emergence of players like Hobbs provides optimism for the future and showcases the depth being built within the program.
Reflecting on the entirety of spring practice, Freeman expressed overall satisfaction with the progress made. He emphasized the team’s focus on internal improvement, urging each individual to chase their full potential. Without the direct competition of an opponent during spring, the emphasis was on self-improvement and building trust within the team – among players, and between players and coaches. Freeman believes that this elevated level of trust and camaraderie is crucial for a successful team. He noted that the football aspect of building trust comes through consistent performance and reliability.
Looking ahead to the summer, Freeman stressed the importance of physical preparation. He underscored that the team cannot afford to waste time, as the challenging opening game against Miami looms large. The focus will be on ensuring the team is physically ready to perform at a high level from the very first snap.
The 2025 schedule presents a demanding yet exciting path for the Fighting Irish. The season kicks off on August 31st with a high-profile road game against Miami. This early test will provide an immediate gauge of the team’s preparedness and potential. The schedule also features matchups against Texas A&M, Purdue, Arkansas, Boise State, NC State, USC, Boston College, Navy, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, and Stanford. This slate includes a mix of Power Four opponents and teams with strong recent track records, ensuring a rigorous test throughout the season. Notably, the schedule avoids consecutive road games, which could be beneficial in maintaining momentum.
The blend of returning experience and emerging talent, coupled with a focused and demanding spring practice, has positioned Notre Dame to build upon their recent successes. While the College Football Playoff remains the ultimate goal, the foundation laid this spring under Marcus Freeman suggests that the Fighting Irish are poised for another competitive and compelling season in 2025. The momentum generated in the spring will be crucial as they navigate a challenging schedule and strive to reach their full potential. The Fighting Irish faithful have reason to be optimistic as the team heads into the summer, ready to solidify the gains made and prepare for the battles that lie ahead.
