It’s been just a little over a week since Notre Dame lost the College Football Playoff National Championship to Ohio State, and Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard is still feeling the effects of it. The sting of that 34-23 defeat lingers, not just in the hearts of fans but also in the body of the young quarterback.
Riley Leonard’s Performance Under Pressure
As the quarterback for Notre Dame, Leonard was obviously a huge part of their offensive efforts against the Buckeyes. He showcased his dual-threat capabilities, making significant contributions both in the air and on the ground during the national title game. In a high-stakes matchup, Leonard went 22-for-31 passing for an impressive 255 yards and two touchdowns. But that wasn’t all; he also added a tough 40 yards on 17 carries, scoring once on the ground. His lone rushing touchdown came on Notre Dame’s opening drive, an 18-play, nearly 10-minute march down the field, where Leonard carried the ball an astounding 11 times.
Feeling the Aftermath
Ahead of the Senior Bowl on February 1, Leonard admits that he’s still feeling sore from the national title game. “Those dudes could hit,” he remarked, reflecting on the physical toll of the championship clash. It’s a testament to the intensity of college football, where every snap counts and every tackle leaves a mark.
Determination to Compete
When asked why he was still playing despite the aches and pains, Leonard offered a simple but heartfelt answer: “If you give me a chance to play football, I’m going to play it.” This unwavering passion for the game is what sets athletes like Leonard apart. In a world where many would consider opting out for the sake of rest, he embraces every opportunity to showcase his skills.
Comparing Decisions: Leonard vs. Howard
Unlike Leonard, his counterpart from the national title game, Will Howard, decided to opt out of the Senior Bowl. But Leonard wasn’t thinking about that decision. “I never really thought about that,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to play. “I’m just trying to play as many snaps as possible. If there’s a ball game that I get invited to, I’m going to go play in it.” This mentality speaks volumes about his character and dedication to the sport.
Draft Projections and Future Opportunities
Leonard could probably use the extra reps. Though he possesses many attributes of an NFL quarterback and is coming off a career season, he still doesn’t have the best draft projections. As of now, he’s considered a Day 3 pick. But the Senior Bowl presents a golden opportunity. Should he impress scouts at Saturday’s game, Leonard could greatly improve his draft stock.
The Road Ahead
With the Senior Bowl on the horizon, Leonard is poised to make his mark. The stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable. However, this is where he thrives. The chance to prove himself in front of NFL scouts is not just an opportunity; it’s a challenge he’s ready to embrace. Will he rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but if his performance in the national title game is any indication, he has what it takes to shine.
Final Thoughts
As fans eagerly await the Senior Bowl, Riley Leonard stands at a crossroads. His journey through college football has been filled with highs and lows, but his spirit remains unbroken. With determination and grit, he’s ready to tackle whatever comes next. Will he elevate his draft stock and secure a spot in the NFL? The answer lies just around the corner, and one thing is for sure: Riley Leonard is not one to back down from a challenge. The future looks bright for this talented quarterback, and we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.
