Riley Leonard’s tenure as Notre Dame’s quarterback has been nothing short of transformative, leading the Fighting Irish to remarkable victories and earning accolades that underscore his pivotal role in the team’s success. Since transferring from Duke, Leonard has showcased exceptional skill and leadership, guiding Notre Dame to an impressive 11-1 regular-season record and a berth in the College Football Playoff National Championship.
In the 2024 season, Leonard’s performance was instrumental in Notre Dame’s offensive dominance. He accounted for 30 touchdownsβ16 through the air and 14 on the groundβdemonstrating his dual-threat capabilities. His completion rate of 66.2% marked a significant improvement from his previous tenure at Duke, reflecting his development and synergy with the Irish offense. This stellar performance earned him the team’s Most Valuable Player award at the annual “Echoes” Awards.
Leonard’s resilience has been equally commendable. Overcoming multiple injuries in 2023, including an ankle injury against Notre Dame and subsequent surgeries that sidelined him during spring practice, he made a triumphant return to lead the Irish. His perseverance and impact on the field did not go unnoticed, as he was named a semifinalist for the 2024 Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Throughout the season, Leonard’s clutch performances have been pivotal. In the Orange Bowl semifinal against Penn State, he completed 15 of 23 passes for 223 yards, earning Offensive MVP honors and setting the stage for a dramatic 27-24 victory. His ability to perform under pressure was further evident in the College Football Playoff National Championship against Ohio State, where he threw for 255 yards and two touchdowns, and added a rushing touchdown, showcasing his versatility despite the team’s 34-23 loss.
Leonard’s leadership extended beyond his on-field statistics. His presence galvanized the team, fostering a culture of resilience and determination. This was particularly evident after an early-season upset loss to Northern Illinois, where Leonard’s guidance helped the team regroup and embark on a 13-game winning streak, culminating in a national championship appearance.
His contributions have also been recognized on national platforms. Leonard was named to the Davey O’Brien Award watch list, highlighting his status as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. Additionally, his performance against Army, where he led the team to a 49-14 victory by completing 10 of 13 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns, exemplified his efficiency and command of the offense.
Beyond individual accolades, Leonard’s impact is evident in the team’s offensive metrics. Under his leadership, Notre Dame’s offense ranked second nationally in turnover margin and fourth in scoring offense, reflecting a balanced and potent attack. His 14 rushing touchdowns tied the school record for most in a season by a quarterback, showcasing his threat on the ground.
Leonard’s journey has been marked by overcoming adversity. In the national championship game against Ohio State, he demonstrated toughness by returning to the game after a brief exit due to injury, exemplifying his commitment and resilience.
As Leonard’s collegiate career draws to a close, his legacy at Notre Dame is firmly established. His leadership, resilience, and exceptional play have not only led to team success but have also endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His final game at Notre Dame Stadium was a testament to his impact, leaving an indelible mark on the program.
In recognition of his outstanding season, Leonard was honored as the Capital One Orange Bowl MVP, a testament to his pivotal role in leading the team to the College Football Playoff Championship. This accolade reflects his performance on one of the sport’s biggest stages and cements his status as a key contributor to Notre Dame’s success.
In summary, Riley Leonard’s tenure at Notre Dame has been a beacon of hope and excellence. His on-field achievements, coupled with his resilience and leadership, have propelled the Fighting Irish to new heights, earning him a place among the storied program’s most impactful players.