Notre Dame was not too far from winning a national championship last year. Marcus Freeman‘s squad lost to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff title game, ending what was a magical run. Previous years would show the Irish would need a couple of cycles to reload but this go-round might be different. Phil Steele […]
Notre Dame was not too far from winning a national championship last year. Marcus Freeman‘s squad lost to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff title game, ending what was a magical run. Previous years would show the Irish would need a couple of cycles to reload but this go-round might be different.
Phil Steele recently explained why he believes Notre Dame is once again a national championship contender. Quarterback is a question; however, the talent everywhere else is among the best in the country. Steele is high on nearly every single position group in South Bend.
“They’ve got a new quarterback this year in CJ Carr but he’s surrounded by talent,” Steele said via The Herd. “I love the (Jeremiyah) Love, (Jadarian) Price combo at running back. It’s my No. 2 running back core in the country. No. 3 offensive line. I like the additions they got at receiver and defensively, each unit is rated inside my top five. And they’re solid on special teams.
“I’ve got the Irish favored in all 12 games this year. Tough opener… but I think Notre Dame is a legit national championship contender and I think Marcus Freeman is doing a tremendous job.”
To this point, the quarterback competition has not been fully decided. Carr is one of the candidates, going up against Kenny Minchey. On3 | Rivals’ Blue & Gold Illustrated recently provided an update on where things stand between the two, even providing a timeline of when Freeman could name the starter.
As Steele mentioned, a tough season opener is ahead. He might have Notre Dame favored but going down to Coral Gables to face off against Miami is no easy task. Mario Cristobal believes his program is ready to take the next step forward. Step one for them is going out and starting the year 1-0 with a statement victory.
Texas A&M will then come to town, a rematch from last season’s thriller in College Station. From there, you could argue Notre Dame will have the talent advantage in every game they play.
The last national championship for the Irish came in 1988. A drought spanning nearly four decades, Freeman appears to be on a mission to bring glory back to the program. Close last season in the expanded 12-team CFP, another opportunity will present itself in 2025. Steele considers himself a believer, liking what Notre Dame brings to the table.
Category: General Sports
