Marcus Freeman Makes It Clear Where CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey Stand in the Quarterback Battle
Marcus Freeman’s leadership of the Notre Dame football program has always been marked by a sense of clarity, direction, and firm decision-making. As the Fighting Irish head into a new season filled with expectation, the quarterback position once again takes center stage in the hearts and minds of fans, analysts, and players alike. With the departure of previous starting quarterback Sam Hartman, the door is wide open for a new leader to emerge, and all eyes are now focused on two promising young signal-callers: CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey. In recent comments, Freeman made it abundantly clear where each quarterback stands in the race for QB1, eliminating much of the speculation that had been swirling around the program throughout the offseason. His verdict wasn’t delivered with fanfare or dramatic flair but rather with the measured, confident tone of a coach who knows exactly what he wants and sees exactly what he needs in his next starting quarterback.
CJ Carr came to Notre Dame with considerable hype, the grandson of legendary Michigan coach Lloyd Carr, and one of the top quarterback recruits in the nation. From the moment he committed to the Irish, expectations soared. Carr is polished beyond his years, with a sharp football IQ, impressive mechanics, and a calm demeanor in the pocket. Despite being just a freshman, he has demonstrated a maturity and confidence that’s rare at this stage. Freeman acknowledged all of these qualities during his evaluation, noting how quickly Carr has adjusted to the pace of the college game. He’s impressed not just by Carr’s talent but also by his work ethic and willingness to learn. Carr has been working closely with the offensive coaching staff, spending countless hours in the film room, and making the most of his reps during practices. His ability to process information quickly, make smart decisions, and keep his composure has not gone unnoticed.
Kenny Minchey, meanwhile, presents a different profile. A year older than Carr, Minchey has had a little more time in the system, and that experience has paid dividends. He’s grown into a more confident passer, taking control of the offense and showing a better command of the playbook. Freeman spoke highly of Minchey’s development, particularly praising his arm strength, mobility, and leadership on the field. What stands out most to Freeman about Minchey is his resilience. Through the ups and downs of college football, injuries, and competition, Minchey has remained focused and dedicated. He brings a quiet intensity to every practice, and his teammates respect the way he leads by example. He’s not flashy, but he’s consistent and reliable—traits that coaches love in a quarterback.
When asked to compare the two, Freeman didn’t shy away from the truth. He was upfront in his assessment and made it clear that, while the competition is still technically open, one quarterback has pulled slightly ahead. According to Freeman, Minchey currently holds the edge, thanks largely to his experience and overall comfort in the offense. That doesn’t mean Carr is far behind. In fact, Freeman emphasized that the gap is narrow and could close quickly as Carr continues to develop. What matters most to the coaching staff is performance under pressure, and both quarterbacks have shown the ability to deliver in clutch moments during spring practices and scrimmages. Still, Minchey’s consistency and decision-making have given him a slight lead in the eyes of the staff.
Freeman also made a point to stress that this quarterback competition is healthy and productive. Both Carr and Minchey are pushing each other to get better, and the team is benefitting from the intensity of their battle. There is no animosity, only mutual respect and a shared commitment to making Notre Dame a winning program. Freeman values the way both players have handled the spotlight, the media scrutiny, and the internal pressure. He knows how difficult it is to step into the role of QB1 at a place like Notre Dame, and he’s been impressed by how both young men have embraced the challenge.
What this clarity from Freeman does is allow the rest of the team to rally around the quarterback position without the uncertainty that often clouds competitions like this. It also gives Carr a roadmap for what he needs to do to close the gap. Freeman isn’t writing him off; far from it. In fact, he went out of his way to praise Carr’s progress and potential. He views Carr as a future star for the program, someone who is going to play a big role in the team’s success. But for now, Minchey’s steadiness and experience make him the likely frontrunner.
Still, the door isn’t closed. Freeman’s message to Carr is clear: keep grinding, keep improving, and be ready. Injuries, setbacks, and unexpected opportunities are a part of football, and depth at quarterback is crucial. Carr has already proven he belongs at this level, and if his development continues at this pace, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a major factor in the Irish offense. The coaching staff has been deliberate in how they’re bringing him along, ensuring that he’s not overwhelmed but also that he’s challenged every day. Carr’s growth in such a short time has been impressive, and the staff believes he’s going to be special.
As for Minchey, the message is just as clear: this is your job to lose. Freeman’s confidence in Minchey is rooted in what he’s seen on the practice field and in team meetings. Minchey has been decisive, accurate, and composed. He’s earned the trust of his teammates and his coaches, and now the expectation is that he continues to elevate his game. With the weight of potential QB1 responsibilities on his shoulders, how he handles that pressure will determine whether he can solidify his hold on the position. Freeman wants to see Minchey take command, not just play the position but own it.
Behind the scenes, the competition is also shaping how the offense is being tailored. Offensive coordinator Gerard Parker is working closely with both quarterbacks to adapt the system to their strengths. With Minchey, there’s a bit more emphasis on pushing the ball downfield and using his legs when necessary. With Carr, there’s more timing, precision, and short-to-intermediate accuracy. These variations are helping the staff keep the defense on its toes during practices, and it’s also giving both quarterbacks a chance to show what they do best. Freeman sees this as a positive, a way to build versatility and depth within the offense.
The impact of Freeman’s clarity on the quarterback battle extends beyond just Carr and Minchey. It sends a message to the entire roster about accountability and performance. In a program where expectations are always sky-high, knowing where you stand and what’s expected of you is invaluable. Freeman’s communication style is direct but supportive, and players appreciate that honesty. Whether you’re competing for QB1 or a spot on special teams, the message is the same: earn it every day. That culture is part of what makes Notre Dame football different, and it’s why Freeman has been able to build trust so quickly in his tenure as head coach.
Recruiting is also impacted by the quarterback situation, and Freeman knows that. Other recruits are watching how he handles Carr and Minchey, especially those considering playing quarterback for the Irish in the future. By being transparent and fair, Freeman is reinforcing the idea that Notre Dame is a place where competition is respected, development is prioritized, and the best player plays—regardless of age or ranking. That resonates with families and high school coaches, and it strengthens Notre Dame’s position as a destination for top-tier quarterback talent.
Looking ahead, Freeman will continue to evaluate both quarterbacks as the team moves through summer workouts and into fall camp. Nothing is set in stone, and the ultimate decision on who takes the first snap of the season opener will depend on how both Carr and Minchey perform in the lead-up to the season. Still, with the current edge going to Minchey, it’s clear that he’ll enter the summer with a chance to establish himself as the leader of the offense. Carr, meanwhile, will continue to press forward, gaining ground and preparing for his opportunity.
Freeman’s decision to be open about the quarterback situation might not grab headlines the way a dramatic announcement would, but it reflects his philosophy as a coach: be honest, be clear, and build a team where players know what’s expected and what they must do to succeed. For Carr and Minchey, that clarity is a gift. It allows them to focus on improvement, not speculation. It frees them from distractions and gives them a clear understanding of where they stand.
As Notre Dame continues its march toward a new season filled with promise and possibility, the quarterback battle will remain one of the key storylines. But thanks to Freeman’s straightforward approach, the drama is minimized, and the focus stays where it belongs: on growth, preparation, and performance. Whether it’s Minchey under center to start the year or Carr stepping into the spotlight down the road, the Irish appear to be in good hands—now and for the future. And in a program that values tradition, excellence, and winning above all else, that’s exactly what they need.
