Every spring in South Bend, anticipation builds to a fever pitch. While some programs across the country might treat their spring game as little more than a glorified scrimmage, at Notre Dame, the Blue & Gold Game carries weight. It’s more than just an opportunity to evaluate early depth charts or check out the freshmen—it’s a celebration, a tradition, and a symbolic kickoff to another season of hope. This year’s edition didn’t disappoint, and the reactions from fans were as passionate, thoughtful, and occasionally over-the-top as one might expect from one of college football’s most storied fanbases.
Held under blue skies and crisp Indiana sunshine, the 2025 Blue & Gold Game offered more than just a sneak peek at Marcus Freeman’s latest squad. It showcased storylines, surprises, and standout performances that sent social media into a frenzy. From quarterback play to defensive dominance, from fresh faces to returning stars, fans had plenty to digest—and they didn’t hold back.
Perhaps the most talked-about element of this year’s spring game was the performance under center. All eyes were on early enrollee freshman quarterback Deuce Knight, the highly touted dual-threat from Mississippi who generated major buzz during recruiting. Knight, flashing the raw talent that had Irish fans dreaming of national titles, didn’t disappoint. Though he didn’t play extensive snaps, every throw, every scramble, and every sideline huddle he participated in was dissected online. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Deuce Knight is HIM. The poise. The arm. This kid is going to be special. Already more confident than most freshmen we’ve had in years.”
Knight’s performance, while encouraging, didn’t overshadow the current quarterback battle between veteran signal-caller Steve Angeli and Duke transfer Riley Leonard. The two quarterbacks split reps with the first team, each flashing moments of control and command. Leonard, in particular, impressed fans with his athleticism and leadership, attributes he developed during his time in the ACC. However, Angeli had the more efficient afternoon, threading a touchdown pass between two defenders in what many fans described as the best throw of the day. “QB1 needs to be Angeli,” another fan posted. “I love Riley, but Steve looked sharper today. Decisions were quick, throws were crisp. That TD? A dime.”
Not everyone agreed. Some felt Leonard was still adjusting to the playbook and just needs time to gel with his new teammates. “We’re lucky to have both,” said another fan. “Let them compete through fall camp. Iron sharpens iron.”
Outside of the quarterback room, it was Notre Dame’s defense that drew the most praise. From the opening whistle, it was clear the Irish defense hadn’t lost a step from last season. The pass rush was relentless, the secondary aggressive, and the linebackers flew to the ball. Fans erupted on forums and comment sections over the performance of rising star linebacker Jaiden Ausberry, who not only recorded a sack but also tipped a pass that led to an interception. “Jaiden Ausberry is a DAWG,” one fan said. “Dude plays like a veteran. Give him the keys to the defense.”
Freshman safety Ivan Taylor also turned heads, delivering a bone-rattling hit that reminded longtime fans of Kyle Hamilton’s early days. “Ivan Taylor is going to be a problem for the next three years,” a user posted. “That hit? Filthy. He’s got instincts and isn’t afraid to lay the wood.”
Even with the impressive defensive showing, the offense managed to make its share of noise—especially in the run game. Gi’Bran Payne and Jeremiyah Love each broke off significant gains, with Payne showcasing improved vision and burst. Love, on the other hand, looked even more explosive than he did in limited action last season. “Our RB room is DEEP,” said one excited fan. “I don’t care who starts—they’re all gonna eat.”
Fans also raved about the offensive line, a unit that continues to uphold Notre Dame’s reputation as “O-Line U.” While there were a few protection breakdowns—inevitable in a spring setting—the unit held up well, especially in the run game. Returning starter Blake Fisher looked dominant, pancaking defenders and setting the tone. Youngster Peter Jones, an early enrollee, also received praise for holding his own against the first-team defense. “The next great Irish lineman,” someone declared. “Peter Jones is the real deal.”
Perhaps one of the most heartfelt reactions came when former Irish great and NFL veteran Harrison Smith served as an honorary captain and was seen mingling with players on the sideline. His presence brought a nostalgic edge to the day, and fans took to social media to express their admiration. “Once a Domer, always a Domer,” one user wrote. “Harrison Smith being back on campus gives me chills. He represents everything great about ND.”
Beyond the Xs and Os, fans also praised the overall atmosphere of the event. With nearly 40,000 in attendance, the energy inside Notre Dame Stadium was electric for a spring game. Families, students, and alumni filled the stands, many donning the classic navy and gold. The crowd was treated to musical performances, pregame tailgates, and postgame autograph sessions. It was, as many fans put it, “a perfect Notre Dame day.”
“Only at Notre Dame does a spring game feel like a reunion and a sneak peek into destiny all at once,” one fan wrote on Facebook. “It’s not just about football—it’s about the community, the history, the pride.”
Some fans, of course, couldn’t help but get ahead of themselves. Predictions about a College Football Playoff appearance, Heisman candidacies, and undefeated seasons started to swirl online before the final whistle blew. “If this is what we’re bringing in April, imagine what we’ll look like in October,” read one overzealous post. Another added, “Marcus Freeman’s third year is the charm. I’m calling it now: 13-0.”
Others took a more measured approach, reminding fellow fans that it was just one scrimmage and that plenty of work lies ahead. “Love the energy, but let’s stay grounded,” a user commented. “We looked good, but there’s always a difference between spring and fall football. Let’s see how things shake out in camp.”
Still, optimism was the dominant emotion, and understandably so. The talent on display, particularly among the younger players, gave the sense that the future is not only bright but perhaps nearer than previously imagined. The coaching staff’s energy, the cohesion of the roster, and the physicality on both sides of the ball impressed even the most skeptical fans. “There’s something special brewing,” a longtime season-ticket holder wrote. “You can feel it. We’re not just reloading—we’re building.”
Even recruits in attendance posted rave reviews of their visit, with a few hinting at potential commitments in the days following the game. Photos of high school prospects posing in Notre Dame jerseys, standing in front of Touchdown Jesus, and taking in the game from the sideline only added to the fan frenzy. “If you’re a recruit and you saw today’s vibe, how could you not commit?” one fan asked rhetorically. “This is college football heaven.”
When the dust settled and the stadium emptied, one truth remained: Notre Dame fans care—deeply, passionately, and unapologetically. Their reactions to the Blue & Gold Game were less about stats and more about emotion. It was about seeing signs of growth, glimpses of greatness, and reasons to believe. For a program with national championship aspirations and a fanbase hungry to return to the pinnacle of college football, the spring game was more than a formality. It was fuel.
As fans filed out, many were already making plans for the fall. Season ticket purchases, away game road trips, and hotel bookings started to fill message boards. One fan may have said it best: “The Blue & Gold Game always reminds me why I love this program. It’s the tradition. The pride. The fight. And after today? I’m all in. Let’s go win a natty.”
From cautious optimism to outright exuberance, Notre Dame fans made one thing clear with their reaction: the Irish aren’t just preparing for another season—they’re preparing for greatness. And they’re ready to march every step of the way, shoulder to shoulder, from April to January.