Notre Dame Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman has officially named Steve Angeli as the starting quarterback for the 2025 season, bringing an end to one of the most closely watched and highly competitive quarterback battles in recent memory. The decision follows an intense spring competition that saw Angeli, a rising junior, face off against talented challengers in sophomore CJ Carr and freshman Kenny Minchey.
The quarterback position has been a focal point of speculation and anticipation ever since Riley Leonard, the 2024 starter, completed his final season. While Leonard helped guide the Irish to a 14-2 record, including victories in the Sugar Bowl and Orange Bowl, his eligibility for the 2025 season had remained uncertain, creating the need for Freeman and his coaching staff to seek out a new leader for the offense.
Angeli, who had a brief but promising stint as the starting quarterback during the 2024 Sun Bowl, emerged as a favorite for the role. The New Jersey native had shown flashes of brilliance in his limited appearances, demonstrating poise under pressure and an ability to execute Freeman’s offensive schemes. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his experience, Angeli’s leadership and familiarity with the team’s offensive system ultimately set him apart in the competition.
“I’m proud of Steve for stepping up and earning this opportunity,” Freeman stated in a press release. “The competition this spring was fierce, and Steve’s performance in practice and in game situations showed that he’s ready to lead this team. We have a lot of trust in him to carry the torch and continue the success we’ve built.”
The spring competition, which began in earnest following the conclusion of the 2024 season, saw Angeli, Carr, and Minchey battle for the starting spot. Carr, a highly-touted four-star recruit and the grandson of former Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr, was expected to be a strong contender. Having redshirted during the 2024 season, Carr entered spring camp as a promising option. His advanced football IQ and strong arm made him a dangerous challenger to Angeli’s position, but his lack of in-game experience proved to be a hindrance during key moments of the spring practices.
Minchey, a highly anticipated freshman, was also a dark horse in the race. Known for his impressive arm strength and quick release, Minchey had the potential to develop into a future star. However, his inexperience at the college level, especially when facing the elite defenses of Notre Dame’s schedule, kept him out of the starting conversation for the upcoming season.
With the decision now made, Angeli will take the reins of an offense that boasts a deep and talented roster. The Fighting Irish will rely heavily on his leadership and ability to manage the game, particularly in critical matchups against top-tier teams in the ACC and beyond. Freeman and his coaching staff will look to mold Angeli into a quarterback who can carry the team to new heights, building off the success of last season and keeping Notre Dame in contention for major bowl games.
- Angeli’s appointment also signifies a new chapter for the Fighting Irish, as the team looks to maintain its status among the elite programs in college football. The quarterback competition may have concluded, but Freeman’s job of developing Angeli and preparing the team for a challenging 2025 season is just beginning. The stakes are high, and all eyes will be on Angeli as he takes the field for his first full season as Notre Dame’s starting quarterback.
