Tag: CJ Carr

CJ Carr is Named The Starting Notre Dame QB

irishranter August 19, 2025 2025 Games Tagged CJ Carr

Notre Dame football enthusiasts at last received the announcement they had been waiting for on August 19, 2025: redshirt freshman CJ Carr has been named the opening-day quarterback of the Fighting Irish, beating out sophomore Kenny Minchey in a closely battled competition that ranged from spring ball to fall camp. This news, officially announced by head coach Marcus Freeman on the team’s social media account, marks a turning point for Notre Dame in its quest to a 2025 season of national championship aspirations. Let’s consider the implications this decision has on Carr, the team, and the long-term trajectory of the program.

The Rise of CJ Carr

CJ Carr, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound quarterback from Saline, Michigan, brings with him the pedigree that screams promise. The grandson of legend Michigan coach Lloyd Carr and son of former Wolverines quarterback Jason Carr, CJ has a football legacy that’s hard to ignore. A four-star signee and No. 45 overall for the class of 2024 on 247Sports, Carr was Notre Dame’s highest-rated quarterback signee since Brandon Wimbush in 2015. His high school career at Saline High was characterized by accuracy, poise, and a big-play presence, completing 68.1% for 2,685 yards and 26 touchdowns his senior year.

Despite having a limited amount of college action—Carr saw playing time in just one game last season, a clock-killing stint in a 66-7 thrashing of Purdue—he has flashed brilliance. At the 2025 Blue-Gold Game, he was 14-for-19 for 170 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, beating out his competition in the highlight-reel practice setting. His release out of the blue, upper-level arm talent, and ability to throw off-platform have folks drawing parallels with NFL legends such as Patrick Mahomes, though coaches note he is still a raw tool, having only four snaps in his career.

The Quarterback Battle: A Tight Race

Calling Carr the starter wasn’t necessarily predetermined. Kenny Minchey, a sophomore dual-threat with a little more athleticism, pushed Carr to the edge. Reports from fall camp had Minchey trending toward QB1 just last week, with his ability to add a running dimension to Mike Denbrock’s offense giving him the advantage. But Carr’s more-developed pocket presence, decision-making, and long-term upside ultimately got the better of Freeman and his coaches. A key scrimmage on Sunday, in which Carr reportedly showed grit after early adversity with interceptions, perhaps had the tipping point.

This fight wasn’t over selecting a starter quarterback; it was over setting the tone for Notre Dame to come. The Irish are beginning with a homegrown quarterback for the first time since Ian Book’s tenure here (2017-2020) rather than a transfer option like Jack Coan, Sam Hartman, or Riley Leonard. This shift is all about adhering to building from within, which is a recruiting selling point to players who crave a clean line to the field. But it also places tremendous pressure on Carr, who takes a position previously occupied by proven veterans.

Impact on the Team

Notre Dame is immediately and forever changed by Carr’s designation as QB1:

Offensive Identity: Carr’s skill set is primarily founded on his passing ability, with quick, compact delivery and precise accuracy. Unlike Riley Leonard, who led the 2024 offense in rushing yards with 866 and touchdowns with 16, Carr is a pocket passer who has good mobility but not as much dual-threat ability. So that means Denbrock will craft the offense to play to Carr’s strengths—quick reads, intermediate throws, and the odd deep post—while using a stout ground game featuring Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. The offensive line, ranked among the country’s top units, and receiver corps that includes Jaden Greathouse and transfer Malachi Fields, should help smooth Carr’s transition.
Early Challenges: Carr gets a baptism by fire. Notre Dame starts on August 31 at No. 10 Miami and then hosts No. 19 Texas A&M. These highly ranked opponents have stout defensive lines, and Carr’s inexperience might be challenged under pressure. His knack for avoiding turnovers—something he had trouble with in initial camp drills—will be paramount. Freeman has prioritized decision-making over sheer statistics, and Carr’s football mind will have to come through if the Irish are to remain competitive in these high-pressure games.
Leadership and Trust: Carr, just 19 years old, will be called on to lead a veteran-laden locker room that played in the national championship game a year ago. His leadership has been impressive, and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock has admired his toughness and resilience when rebounding from mistakes. Gaining the trust of his teammates, particularly the huddle, will be important. Former Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn compared the first game as a whirlwind where “everything feels faster,” and Carr’s ability to get the game to slow down in his head will be his first success.
Long-Term Ceiling: Carr’s ceiling is what truly won Freeman over. Analysts like ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit have called him a “put-the-franchise-on-your-back” quarterback, and his five-star potential has the ability to propel Notre Dame’s passing attack to new levels. If he adapts well, he can be the multi-year starter the Irish have not had since Book, providing stability and a blueprint for future classes. But if he’s unable to adapt, Minchey assures Freeman has a talented backup to challenge Carr to become better.

The Bigger Picture

Notre Dame’s decision to pledge to Carr is a going young bet on the massive potential that he has. After a 14-2 season with the Irish advancing to the College Football Playoff and national title game, expectations are high. The 2025 schedule is ferocious, with Miami, Texas A&M, and then USC being huge tests. Carr passing these tests will determine if Notre Dame can stay a title contender or fall off.

The move also shows a shift of culture on the part of Freeman. By resisting the urge to dip into the transfer portal, Notre Dame is showing belief in its pipeline. Carr’s arrival might also help incentivize future recruits since it would show that a blue-chip recruit can take the starting job as a sophomore. Yet the ghost of Minchey does loom large. If Carr does struggle in the early stages, Freeman’s willingness to go to Minchey might keep things on track but risks unleashing controversy.

Looking Ahead

When Notre Dame opens against Miami in Hard Rock Stadium, all eyes will be on CJ Carr. The redshirt freshman carries the weight of a storied program, a demanding fan base, and a legacy bound up in his last name. His evolution from heralded recruit to QB1 has only just begun, and the coming weeks will determine if he is ready to drive the Irish to glory.

For now, the CJ Carr age has come, and it’s going to be a ride. Buckle up, Notre Dame faithful—South Bend’s newest quarterback is set to take the wheel.

Notre Dame’s Quarterback Conundrum: CJ Carr or Kenny Minchey?

irishranter April 23, 2025 Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Kenny Minchey

As the Notre Dame Fighting Irish gear up for the 2025 season, one question looms larger than any other: who will take the reins as the starting quarterback? With the departure of Steve Angeli to the transfer portal, the competition has narrowed to two highly talented but relatively untested players—freshman CJ Carr and sophomore Kenny Minchey. Both quarterbacks bring unique strengths, high ceilings, and the promise of a bright future, but only one can lead the Irish onto the field against Miami in the season opener. Let’s break down the battle, their backgrounds, and what this decision means for Notre Dame’s championship aspirations.

The Contenders

CJ Carr: The Prodigy with a Pedigree
CJ Carr, a freshman from Saline, Michigan, is no stranger to the spotlight. As the grandson of legendary Michigan coach Lloyd Carr, football runs in his blood. Ranked as the No. 2 pocket passer and No. 36 overall recruit in the 2024 class, Carr arrived at Notre Dame with sky-high expectations. Despite battling an elbow injury that limited his throwing last season, he showed flashes of brilliance in the 2025 Blue-Gold Game, going 14-of-19 for 170 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His performance earned praise for its poise and precision, with observers noting his ability to move the offense more effectively than his competitors.

Carr’s strengths lie in his polished pocket presence and accurate arm. His ability to deliver touch passes, as seen in connections with tight ends Jack Larsen and Kevin Bauman, highlights his potential as a classic drop-back passer. However, his limited game experience—only four snaps in a blowout win over Purdue—raises questions about his readiness for high-stakes matchups like Miami and Texas A&M early in the season. Additionally, his recovery from injury remains a point of caution, though recent reports indicate positive progress.

Kenny Minchey: The Dual-Threat Dynamo
Kenny Minchey, a sophomore from Hendersonville, Tennessee, brings a different flavor to the quarterback room. A former No. 5 dual-threat quarterback recruit in the 2023 class, Minchey combines a rocket arm with dynamic athleticism. In the Blue-Gold Game, he went 6-of-14 for 106 yards, adding a 4-yard rushing touchdown and a celebratory backflip that showcased his flair. While his passing stats were less gaudy than Carr’s, his ability to extend plays with his legs adds a dimension Notre Dame hasn’t consistently had at the position.

Minchey’s limited experience—three career pass attempts and two runs across four games—mirrors Carr’s, but his spring performance surprised many who initially saw the competition as a Carr-Angeli duel. His growth within offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock’s system has been notable, and his dual-threat capability could be a game-changer against mobile defenses. However, his lower completion rate in the spring game suggests he’s still refining his consistency as a passer.

The Context: A High-Stakes Decision

Notre Dame is coming off a historic 2024 season, reaching the College Football Playoff national title game behind transfer quarterback Riley Leonard. With Leonard now headed to the NFL, head coach Marcus Freeman faces a pivotal decision. Unlike the past two years, when Notre Dame leaned on veteran transfers, Freeman is betting on youth, signaling confidence in Carr and Minchey’s upside. But with a brutal early schedule—road games at Miami and home against Texas A&M—the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Freeman and Denbrock have emphasized that both quarterbacks “have the ability to be the starting quarterback,” but the decision won’t be rushed. The Blue-Gold Game provided a glimpse of their potential, but spring practice reps were split three ways, limiting evaluation. Now, with Angeli’s departure, summer workouts and fall camp will be critical for both players to prove they can handle the pressure of leading a title contender.

Comparing the Two: Strengths and Challenges

Arm Talent: Carr’s accuracy and touch give him an edge in the passing game, particularly on intermediate and deep routes. Minchey’s arm strength is undeniable, but his completion percentage needs improvement.
Mobility: Minchey’s dual-threat ability makes him a wildcard, capable of turning broken plays into big gains. Carr, while not immobile, is more of a pocket passer, relying on quick reads and footwork.
Experience: Both have minimal game time, making this a virtual toss-up. Minchey’s two seasons in the program give him a slight edge in system familiarity, but Carr’s recruiting pedigree suggests a higher floor.
Intangibles: Carr’s football lineage and calm demeanor point to a high football IQ. Minchey’s energy and athletic swagger could galvanize the offense but may require tempering to avoid risky plays.

What’s at Stake for Notre Dame?

Notre Dame’s 2025 roster is loaded with talent, from a stacked running back room featuring Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price to a stout defense led by emerging stars like Bryce Young. The offensive line and running game should ease the burden on the new quarterback, but the early schedule demands a signal-caller who can perform under pressure. A misstep in choosing the starter could derail Notre Dame’s playoff hopes, while the right choice could propel the Irish back to the title game.

The decision also has long-term implications. Both Carr and Minchey are young, with multiple years of eligibility. Naming one as the starter risks pushing the other toward the transfer portal, a common outcome in today’s college football landscape. Freeman’s ability to manage egos and maintain depth will be as crucial as picking the right player.

The Case for Each Quarterback

Why Carr? If Notre Dame prioritizes a polished passer who can distribute the ball efficiently, Carr is the likely choice. His Blue-Gold performance showed he can handle a simplified game plan, and his recovery from injury suggests he’s ready to take on a bigger role. For a team with a strong running game and reliable tight ends, Carr’s precision could be the perfect fit.
Why Minchey? If the Irish want to add unpredictability to their offense, Minchey’s dual-threat skills make him intriguing. His ability to escape pressure and create off-script plays could be a weapon against aggressive defenses like Miami’s. His spring surge also indicates he’s closing the gap on Carr’s hype.

Prediction: Who Wins QB1?

While both quarterbacks have the talent to start, CJ Carr appears to have a slight edge based on his spring game performance and recruiting pedigree. His ability to move the offense consistently and connect on key passes suggests he’s closer to being game-ready. However, Minchey’s athleticism and growth make this far from a done deal. Expect the competition to extend into fall camp, with Freeman likely naming Carr the starter unless Minchey makes a significant leap in passing consistency.

Final Thoughts

The CJ Carr-Kenny Minchey battle is a microcosm of Notre Dame’s broader aspirations: blending tradition with a bold, youth-driven future. Whoever emerges as QB1 will inherit a program on the cusp of greatness, with the tools to compete for a national title. For now, Irish fans can take solace in knowing that both quarterbacks bring excitement and potential to the table. As the summer heats up, all eyes will be on South Bend to see who takes the first snap against Miami.

A Spring Showcase Under the Golden Dome: Reviewing the 2025 Notre Dame Blue-Gold Game

irishranter April 12, 2025 2025 Games, Practice Tagged CJ Carr, Kenny Minchey, Steve Angeli

On a crisp April afternoon in South Bend, the 94th annual Notre Dame Blue-Gold Game unfolded at Notre Dame Stadium, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse into the Fighting Irish’s 2025 season. With the echoes of last year’s National Championship near-miss still lingering, the 2025 spring game wasn’t just a scrimmage—it was a stage for emerging talent, renewed hope, and, most notably, a heated quarterback competition that promises to shape the Irish’s future. Under partly cloudy skies and with an electric crowd of over 30,000, the Blue team edged out the Gold team 31-27 in a contest that showcased offensive firepower, defensive grit, and a trio of quarterbacks — Steve Angeli, Kenny Minchey, and CJ Carr — vying to replace the departed Riley Leonard.

The Quarterback Spotlight: Angeli, Minchey, and Carr

The biggest storyline heading into the game was the three-way battle for the starting quarterback role, and none of the contenders disappointed. Each brought a distinct flavor to the field, giving head coach Marcus Freeman and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock plenty to ponder as they look toward the season opener against Miami.

Steve Angeli, the senior with the most experience, played with the poise of a veteran. Taking the first snaps for the Blue team, Angeli orchestrated a methodical opening drive, completing 8 of 11 passes for 108 yards, including a crisp 22-yard touchdown strike to tight end Eli Raridon. His performance echoed his clutch moments in the 2023 Sun Bowl and last year’s Orange Bowl, where he stepped up when Leonard was sidelined. Angeli’s strength lies in his accuracy and decision-making—he rarely forces throws, and his command of the huddle was evident. However, some fans noted his tendency to favor short, safe passes, leaving questions about his ability to stretch defenses deep. Still, Angeli’s steady hand makes him the frontrunner, at least for now.

Kenny Minchey, the junior known for his dual-threat potential, brought a spark of athleticism to the Gold team. Minchey’s mobility was on full display, as he scrambled for a 13-yard gain on a broken play and later punched in a 7-yard rushing touchdown. Through the air, he completed 6 of 14 passes for 106 yards, showing flashes of a big arm but struggling with consistency—two overthrown passes to open receivers drew groans from the stands. Minchey’s raw talent is undeniable, and his ability to extend plays could align well with Denbrock’s dynamic scheme. Yet, his decision-making under pressure needs refinement if he’s to leapfrog Angeli.

CJ Carr, the sophomore and former four-star recruit, stole the show for many onlookers. Splitting time between both squads, Carr looked like a star in the making, going 14 of 19 for 170 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His first scoring pass—a perfectly placed 28-yard dart to Jaden Greathouse—had the crowd buzzing, and his second, a 15-yard fade to KK Smith, showcased his touch. Carr’s interception came on a risky throw into double coverage, a reminder of his youth, but his ability to read defenses and push the ball downfield set him apart. Fans on social media were quick to anoint him the future, though his limited experience makes a Week 1 start a bold proposition.

Beyond the Quarterbacks: Offensive Fireworks and Defensive Standouts

While the quarterback race dominated headlines, the rest of the roster didn’t disappoint. The Irish offense, bolstered by transfer receivers Will Pauling and Malachi Fields, showed depth and versatility. Pauling, despite limited snaps due to a lingering injury, hauled in a 30-yard catch that hinted at his potential as a WR1. Junior Jaden Greathouse continued his ascent, finishing with 5 receptions for 82 yards and a score, cementing his role as a go-to target. Running back Jadarian Price dazzled with a 45-yard touchdown scamper, finishing with 96 yards on just 8 carries.

Defensively, the Irish flashed the aggression that defined their 2024 playoff run. Sophomore linebacker Kennedy Urlacher led with 7 tackles, including a sack, while transfer safety Jalen Stroman broke up two passes. The defensive line, anchored by Jared Dawson, generated consistent pressure, though the secondary showed occasional lapses on deep balls—a point of emphasis for new defensive coordinator Chris Ash heading into fall camp.

Game Flow and Key Moments

The game itself was a seesaw affair. Blue jumped out to a 10-0 lead behind Angeli’s touchdown pass and a field goal, but Gold answered with Minchey’s rushing score and a 26-yard field goal before halftime, narrowing the gap to 10-10. The third quarter belonged to Carr, whose two touchdown passes gave Gold a brief 24-17 lead. Blue rallied in the fourth, with Price’s long run and a late 35-yard field goal sealing the 31-27 victory.

Penalties and turnovers—three total, including Carr’s pick and a Minchey fumble—kept the game from being a clean showcase, but the intensity was palpable. Fans roared for every big play, and the sideline energy suggested a team hungry to finish what it started last season.

What We Learned

The 2025 Blue-Gold Game didn’t crown a starting quarterback, but it clarified the stakes. Angeli offers reliability, Minchey brings unpredictability, and Carr exudes star potential. Freeman’s refusal to set a timetable for naming a starter suggests the competition will stretch into August, and with a brutal opener at Miami looming, the decision carries massive weight.

Beyond the quarterback room, Notre Dame looks loaded. The offensive line, led by Charles Jagusah and Billy Schrauth, held up well, and the skill positions are as deep as they’ve been in years. Defensively, replacing stars like Xavier Watts and Howard Cross won’t be easy, but the young talent stepping up—Urlacher, Stroman, and Dawson—offers hope.

Looking Ahead

As the Irish wrap up spring practice, the Blue-Gold Game leaves fans optimistic but curious. Who will take the first snap in Miami? Can this team, so close to glory in 2024, climb the final step? One thing’s certain: the journey to those answers starts with Angeli, Minchey, and Carr, each fighting not just for a job, but for a chance to etch their name in Notre Dame lore.

For now, the Golden Dome gleams a little brighter, and Irish faithful are counting down the days to kickoff. Go Irish!

Check out the Blue-Gold Game highlights:

2025 Notre Dame Football Spring Practice – Rising Stars and a QB Showdown

irishranter March 19, 2025 Practice Tagged CJ Carr, Kenny Minchey, Steve Angeli

As the crisp March air settles over South Bend, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish kicked off their 2025 spring practice on March 19, marking the beginning of a new chapter following their thrilling run to the National Championship game in January. With a roster brimming with talent and a quarterback competition that promises to shape the season, this spring session offers a tantalizing glimpse into what lies ahead for the Irish in 2025. After a grueling 14-2 campaign last fall, Notre Dame is reloading—not rebuilding—and the early practices have already spotlighted players who could define the team’s fortunes. Let’s dive into the standout performers and the brewing battle under center.

Players Who Stood Out

Spring practice is a proving ground, and several players wasted no time making their presence felt. Sophomore running back Jeremiyah Love, already a household name after a breakout 2024, showcased his electrifying speed and improved patience in drills. Despite battling an MCL injury during the playoffs last season, Love looked fully recovered, weaving through defenders with a burst that hints at a potential Heisman-caliber year. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield added another layer to an already dynamic skill set, suggesting Notre Dame’s offense will lean heavily on his versatility.

On the defensive side, Jason Onye emerged as a force to watch along the defensive line. The senior defensive tackle, who briefly stepped away from the program last fall, returned with a vengeance. His quick first step and relentless energy disrupted drills, signaling he’s ready to fill the massive shoes left by departing stars Howard Cross III and Rylie Mills. Onye’s performance could stabilize an interior line that needs new anchors in 2025.

Another name generating buzz is sophomore wide receiver Jaden Greathouse. Limited contact due to his heavy workload last season didn’t stop him from flashing his crisp route-running and reliable hands. Greathouse’s chemistry with the quarterbacks in 7-on-7 work stood out, hinting at a larger role as Notre Dame reshapes its receiving corps. Meanwhile, freshman linebacker Madden Faraimo turned heads with his instincts and physicality. The early enrollee’s ability to read plays and deliver jarring hits suggests he could crack the rotation sooner rather than later.

The Quarterback Situation: A Three-Way Tug-of-War

If there’s one storyline dominating spring practice, it’s the quarterback competition. With Riley Leonard off to the NFL, Notre Dame is turning to its in-house talent for the first time since 2022, setting the stage for a fierce battle between Steve Angeli, Kenny Minchey, and CJ Carr. Each brings a unique flavor to the table, and the opening practice offered a snapshot of their potential.

Steve Angeli, a redshirt junior, carries the edge in experience. With 21 game appearances, including a start in the 2023 Sun Bowl and a clutch relief effort in the Orange Bowl semifinal, Angeli exudes poise. His arm strength and decision-making shone in early drills, particularly on intermediate throws. He’s the safe bet—a steady hand who knows the system—but his ceiling remains a question mark.

Kenny Minchey, a redshirt sophomore, is the wildcard. Known for his athleticism, Minchey dazzled with his mobility, scrambling effectively and extending plays during team sessions. His arm talent is raw but tantalizing, and if he can refine his accuracy, he could unlock a dual-threat dimension the Irish haven’t had since Leonard’s departure. Minchey’s upside is sky-high, but consistency will be his proving ground this spring.

Then there’s CJ Carr, the redshirt freshman and former four-star recruit. Fully recovered from an elbow injury that sidelined him last fall, Carr looked confident and composed. His footwork was sharp, and his deep ball had zip—evident in a perfectly placed pass to Greathouse that drew murmurs from the sidelines. Carr’s pedigree and growth suggest he’s the future, but his limited game experience means he’ll need a standout spring to leapfrog the veterans.

Freshman Blake Hebert rounds out the room, though he’s not yet in the mix for QB1. His participation in drills showed promise, but he’s likely a year away from contention. For now, the spotlight remains on Angeli, Minchey, and Carr, with no clear favorite emerging after day one. Head coach Marcus Freeman has hinted this battle could stretch into fall camp, and with a compressed spring schedule leading to the April 12 Blue-Gold Game, every rep counts.

Looking Ahead

Notre Dame’s 2025 spring practice is about more than just finding a quarterback—it’s about building on a foundation that nearly delivered a national title. The Irish return a stout offensive line, led by Aamil Wagner and Charles Jagusah, and a defense poised to reload with players like Onye and Faraimo stepping up. Yet, the QB decision will ripple through every facet of the team. Can Angeli lock down the job with his reliability? Will Minchey’s flair steal the show? Or does Carr’s potential catapult him to the top?

As spring unfolds, these questions will sharpen into answers. For now, Notre Dame fans can savor the promise of a roster blending proven stars like Love and Greathouse with hungry newcomers like Faraimo—and a quarterback race that’s as unpredictable as it is exciting. The road to August 31’s opener at Miami starts here, and the Irish are already off to a roaring start.

Check out the 2025 practice highlights: