The quarterback position is often one of the most scrutinized spots on a football team, and at a prestigious program like Notre Dame, that scrutiny can feel even more intense. Head Coach Marcus Freeman, now in his second year at the helm of the Fighting Irish, has inherited a quarterback competition that is critical to the team’s success in the upcoming season. After a lengthy evaluation period, Freeman has officially narrowed down the field of potential starters, setting the stage for a pivotal decision that could shape the future of Notre Dame football.
In the world of college football, a stable and effective quarterback is the cornerstone of a successful program. With expectations high, Freeman’s decision is not just about choosing the player who performs best on the field, but also about who embodies the values and leadership qualities that are central to Notre Dame’s football culture. As Freeman’s program enters a crucial phase, the quarterback competition will undoubtedly be a defining storyline in 2025.
The Quarterback Landscape Under Marcus Freeman
Marcus Freeman took over as Notre Dame’s head coach in 2022, following Brian Kelly’s departure for LSU. Freeman’s first year at the helm was filled with promise, but it also presented challenges, particularly at the quarterback position. The team started with Tyler Buchner, a sophomore who had shown flashes of promise but was plagued by inconsistency and injuries.
The quarterback depth chart for 2025 was initially quite crowded. With the addition of new recruits and the return of several players, Freeman faced the challenge of sorting through a variety of skill sets, personalities, and potential. Entering the 2025 offseason, Freeman and offensive coordinator Gerad Parker had multiple options, including:
- Tyler Buchner: The returning quarterback from the 2024 season who had shown flashes of brilliance but had yet to fully cement himself as the long-term solution.
- Sam Hartman: A graduate transfer from Wake Forest, Hartman arrived with significant college experience, including multiple seasons as the Demon Deacons’ starter. Known for his ability to read defenses and his leadership on and off the field, Hartman quickly became a fan favorite.
- Drew Pyne: A reliable backup who had seen significant playing time in the previous season. While he had not been a game-changer, Pyne brought experience and a steady hand to the quarterback room.
- Steve Angeli: A talented young player who showed promise but lacked the collegiate experience of some of the older candidates.
From the outset, Freeman expressed confidence in his quarterbacks but emphasized that the competition would be open, as he wanted to see which player could best lead the team and thrive in high-pressure situations. As spring practice unfolded, the coaching staff closely evaluated each player’s performance, leadership, and ability to execute the game plan.
Narrowing the Field
After weeks of intense competition, Freeman and his staff decided to narrow down the field of candidates to two primary options for the starting role. While all of the quarterbacks brought unique strengths to the table, it became clear that the race would come down to Tyler Buchner and Sam Hartman.
- Tyler Buchner: Despite his struggles and injuries over the past few seasons, Buchner still represented a highly promising talent. His mobility and playmaking ability were standout features, and his strong arm allowed him to stretch the field. The question mark surrounding Buchner, however, was his consistency and ability to stay healthy. If he could put together a complete season without the nagging injuries that had affected his play in the past, Buchner could be a dynamic force in the Notre Dame offense.
- Sam Hartman: On the other side of the equation stood Sam Hartman, a player with much more experience and a proven track record at Wake Forest. Hartman had been the engine behind the Demon Deacons’ high-powered offense for several seasons, setting numerous records and leading his team to several marquee victories. His poise in the pocket and decision-making skills made him an ideal candidate for the starting job. However, Freeman and the coaching staff were also aware that Hartman had to adapt to a new system, a different conference, and a new set of expectations at Notre Dame.
The decision to narrow the competition to these two quarterbacks wasn’t taken lightly. Coach Freeman had seen positive moments from the other players, but ultimately, it became clear that Buchner and Hartman provided the best chance for the Fighting Irish to compete for a national championship in 2025. By narrowing the competition, Freeman also created a sense of clarity and focus, something essential for the team’s progress moving forward.
The Role of Leadership in the Decision
In college football, especially at a program like Notre Dame, leadership is often just as important as on-field performance. Marcus Freeman knows that a quarterback must not only be able to execute plays but must also command the respect of the locker room and set the tone for the entire team. Both Buchner and Hartman have leadership qualities, but the question was which one could best embody the values that Freeman wanted to instill in the team.
Tyler Buchner, despite his relative youth, had demonstrated significant leadership abilities, especially in the 2024 season. His ability to rally the team, even in difficult situations, spoke volumes about his potential as a leader. However, his inconsistency at times raised concerns about his ability to consistently lead a high-level team.
Sam Hartman, on the other hand, came to Notre Dame with a wealth of experience and a track record of success at the collegiate level. His leadership was often cited as one of his strongest attributes, and he quickly gained the respect of his teammates, many of whom had seen his success in the ACC. Hartman’s calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure were key factors in Freeman’s decision to seriously consider him for the starting job.
Strategic Implications for Notre Dame’s 2025 Season
Freeman’s decision to narrow down the quarterback competition is crucial for the team’s prospects in 2025. The Fighting Irish have high hopes for the upcoming season, and the quarterback position will be a critical component in determining whether those hopes materialize.
If Freeman ultimately chooses Tyler Buchner, the team will likely lean on his mobility and dynamic playmaking ability to run an offense that can stretch defenses vertically. Buchner’s ability to extend plays with his legs and keep opposing defenses off balance will be critical, particularly in games against high-powered offenses. However, Freeman will need to ensure that Buchner can stay healthy and develop more consistency, especially in high-pressure moments.
Choosing Sam Hartman, on the other hand, would bring stability to the position. His experience and ability to read defenses would allow Notre Dame to run a more methodical and balanced offense, focusing on execution and controlling the game. Hartman’s leadership and calm under pressure would provide the team with a steady hand in critical moments, especially in close games or high-stakes matchups. However, Hartman will need to prove that he can adapt to the unique challenges of playing in the tough Big Ten conference, which presents different defensive schemes and more intense competition.
No matter which quarterback Freeman selects, the decision will have a significant impact on Notre Dame’s approach to the 2025 season. With a solid core of talent surrounding the quarterback, including an experienced offensive line and a talented group of skill position players, the quarterback position remains the key to unlocking the team’s full potential.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Marcus Freeman’s decision at quarterback. The narrowing of the competition brings clarity and focus to the team, and the next few weeks will be filled with anticipation as Freeman makes the final call. Whether it’s Tyler Buchner or Sam Hartman leading the charge, the choice will set the tone for Notre Dame’s season and could have lasting implications for the future of the program.
For Freeman, the process of narrowing down the quarterback competition is more than just a football decision—it’s a reflection of the direction he wants to take Notre Dame. The quarterback must not only be a great player but also a leader who embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and excellence that define the Fighting Irish. Freeman’s approach to this critical decision shows his commitment to building a championship-caliber program, and Notre Dame fans will be eagerly watching as the quarterback situation unfolds.
In the end, whoever emerges as the starter will have a massive responsibility on their shoulders. But with Freeman’s leadership and a talented roster surrounding them, the Fighting Irish are poised to make a run at the College Football Playoff, no matter which quarterback takes the reins.
