Greg McElroy has been closely following the ups and downs of Marcus Freeman’s Notre Dame team throughout the challenging 2024 regular season. It’s been a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected hurdles, including a stunning upset loss and a string of key injuries. Yet, despite these challenges, the Fighting Irish have emerged stronger, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Notre Dame’s Remarkable Journey to the Championship
Still, the Fighting Irish have weathered the storm, and they’re heading to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game following their victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl. This achievement is nothing short of commendable, and McElroy believes Freeman and his team deserve all the credit in the world.
Overcoming Adversity: The Fighting Irish Mentality
“Notre Dame’s ability to weather the storm is remarkable. Remarkable,” McElroy proclaimed, via his Always College Football show, following the Orange Bowl on Thursday night. “We have seen that over and over and over again. All season long, they’ve had injuries. … Yet, it never affects how well they play. Next man up mentality.”
This mentality has been a defining characteristic of the team. When starting quarterback Riley Leonard went down during the game, the Fighting Irish didn’t flinch. Instead, backup quarterback Steve Angeli stepped in seamlessly, demonstrating the depth and strength of the squad.
A Game-Changing Moment
As McElroy alluded to, Angeli entering the game for Leonard at the end of the second quarter truly epitomized what Notre Dame’s season has been all about. “First game ball I’m going to give out is to Steve Angeli, the backup quarterback thrust into the lineup when Riley Leonard goes down,” McElroy added.
It was a tense moment. Leonard had landed awkwardly, and the medical staff had to check him for a concussion. But Angeli didn’t let that pressure get to him. Instead, he led the team down the field, securing crucial points just before halftime. “That was massive, especially knowing that Notre Dame would get the ball to start the second half,” McElroy noted.
The Importance of Timely Plays
Angeli’s performance was not just a stroke of luck; it was a testament to the team’s preparation and resilience. “For 28 minutes, they were getting buried. Then it gave them a little life, a little reason to believe that they can block them, they can move the ball, and they can find some space if they can just give their quarterback a little bit of time. That was really, really impactful so I do not want to downplay the importance of that end-of-half sequence,” McElroy emphasized.
This pivotal moment exemplifies the Fighting Irish’s spirit. They have faced numerous obstacles this season, but each time, they’ve found a way to rally together. Whether it was injuries or tough losses, Notre Dame has shown an unwavering commitment to their goals.
Looking Ahead: The Final Challenge
Notre Dame’s path to the championship game hasn’t been easy. They’ve fought through a myriad of battles to reach this point, and now they stand on the brink of greatness. The Ohio State Buckeyes are the final obstacle standing in front of them, but if we’ve learned anything over the past few months, it’s that betting against the Fighting Irish is a risky proposition.
The upcoming matchup promises to be thrilling. With both teams boasting talented rosters and passionate fan bases, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Notre Dame has proven time and again that they can rise to the occasion, and this game will be no different.
The Heart of a Champion
As we look forward to the championship game on January 20, one thing is clear: Notre Dame is not just a team; they are a family. Their ability to support one another, adapt to challenges, and maintain their focus is what sets them apart. Each player, from the starters to the backups, plays a crucial role in the team’s success.
McElroy’s insights remind us that college football is about more than just wins and losses; it’s about heart, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The Fighting Irish have embodied these values throughout the season, and as they prepare for their final challenge, fans can expect nothing less than a fierce battle on the field.
In the world of college football, where every game counts and every moment matters, Notre Dame has shown us what it means to persevere. As they gear up for the College Football Playoff National Championship, one can only wonder: will the Fighting Irish continue their remarkable journey and claim the title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—their story is far from over.
