The Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback battle just got a lot clearer, but what is the next step in this race?
After the conclusion of spring practice, many have hypothesized that the Notre Dame quarterback battle had gained a lot of clarity. Veteran signal caller Steve Angeli entered the spring as one of the favorites for the position, bringing a level of consistency, and game experience that some liked. He was tasked with trying to hold […]
After the conclusion of spring practice, many have hypothesized that the Notre Dame quarterback battle had gained a lot of clarity. Veteran signal caller Steve Angeli entered the spring as one of the favorites for the position, bringing a level of consistency, and game experience that some liked. He was tasked with trying to hold off CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey, both being younger quarterbacks who bring more physical tools to the table.
It appears that the redshirt junior wasn't able to do so, and now Angeli plans to enter the Transfer Portal with two years of eligibility remaining. The writing appeared to be on the wall, and Marcus Freeman and the Irish staff was honest with Angeli. He has been a tremendous member of the Notre Dame program, and now has a chance to go find a new opportunity to make his mark.
Originally a member of the 2022 recruiting class for the Irish, Angeli has spent the last couple of seasons as a key backup for the team. In 21 games played, he has thrown for 772 yards and 10 touchdowns, while completing over 72 percent of his passes and only throwing one interception. The 6-2, 208-pound signal caller will be most well known for his second quarter drive against Penn State this past season, and his performance against Oregon State in the Sun Bowl during the 2023 season.
Now that Angeli is moving on, this becomes a two-horse race between Minchey and Carr. Each brings something very unique to the table. For Minchey, he is billed as the more athletic of the two and perhaps has a higher upside. Carr, in comparison, is the more consistent decision maker with natural arm talent. That battle will rage on into Fall camp.
For insurance purposes, don’t be surprised if the Irish staff chooses to move former starting quarterback Tyler Buchner back under center after spending his entire time at wide receiver since he returned to the program last offseason. Buchner brings a level of experience and athleticism that could prove valuable in an emergency situation.
Notre Dame also has true freshman Blake Hebert on the roster, as well as walk-on Anthony Rezac. There is enough talent to soften the blow with the loss of Angeli, even if there is still a lack of experience. This is, both unfortunately and fortunately, the result of a higher level of recruiting at the quarterback position. You never want to lose good football players, but this is a compliment to the level of talent in the room.
Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock and head coach Marcus Freeman will now be moving on with a first-year starting quarterback heading into 2025. Will Minchey or Carr win out in the end? That question will be answered this fall.
Notre Dame offensive players that are set up for much bigger roles heading into the 2025 season following stellar spring showings
Notre Dame offensive players set for bigger roles in 2025
