Newsstand: Notre Dame football to kick off spring practice this week
Notre Dame Football is set to commence its spring practice on March 19, 2025, marking the beginning of preparations for the upcoming season. This period is crucial for evaluating talent, integrating new players, and addressing key positional battles. Here’s an overview of what to expect as the Fighting Irish embark on their spring journey.
Spring Practice Schedule and Structure
The NCAA permits programs to conduct 15 on-field practice sessions over a 34-day period during the spring. Notre Dame’s schedule aligns with this framework, with practices commencing on March 19 and culminating with the annual Blue-Gold Game on April 12 at Notre Dame Stadium. Notably, additional practice sessions are planned post-spring game, extending up to April 23, to maximize development opportunities.
Given the extended 2024 season, which concluded on January 20, 2025, the coaching staff, led by Head Coach Marcus Freeman, has adopted an individualized approach to player development. This strategy considers factors such as player workload, recovery needs, and specific developmental goals.
Key Positional Battles
Quarterback Competition
A focal point of this spring is the quarterback position. With the departure of veteran leadership, the spotlight turns to junior Steve Angeli, sophomore Kenny Minchey, and freshman C.J. Carr. Angeli, possessing the most game experience, is considered the early favorite. However, Minchey and Carr, both highly touted recruits, are expected to challenge for the starting role, making this competition one of the most anticipated storylines of the spring.
Offensive Line Dynamics
The offensive line sees a blend of returning talent and new faces. Projected starters include Guerby Lambert, Charles Jagusah, Ashton Craig, Billy Schrauth, and Aamil Wagner. The departures of Rocco Spindler and Pat Coogan have raised questions, but insiders remain optimistic about the line’s potential, citing depth and versatility as strengths.
Defensive Front
On defense, the interior line is anchored by Gabriel Rubio and Jared Dawson, with depth provided by players like Donovan Hinish. The defensive end positions feature talents such as Boubacar Traore and Joshua Burnham. The coaching staff emphasizes the importance of depth to maintain a high level of play throughout the season.
Injury Report and Player Availability
Injuries are an inherent aspect of football, and Notre Dame enters spring practice with several players sidelined or limited. Nine scholarship players, including Jordan Botelho, Ashton Craig, and Boubacar Traore, will miss the entirety of spring practice due to surgeries. Additionally, players like Anthonie Knapp and Will Pauling will participate in modified capacities as they recover.
Coaching Staff Updates
The offseason brought changes to the coaching staff, notably the hiring of Ja’Juan Seider as Associate Head Coach and Running Backs Coach. Seider’s experience and recruiting prowess are expected to bolster the offensive backfield and enhance player development.
Anticipated Spring Game
The Blue-Gold Game, scheduled for April 12, serves as a public showcase of the team’s progress. Traditionally an intrasquad scrimmage, this event offers fans and coaches alike a glimpse into the development of players and the effectiveness of offseason adjustments. While some programs are reimagining their spring games, Notre Dame maintains this tradition, underscoring its value in player evaluation and fan engagement.
Looking Ahead
As Notre Dame embarks on spring practice, the blend of returning talent, new coaching perspectives, and strategic player development sets the stage for a promising 2025 season. The outcomes of positional battles, recovery of injured players, and integration of new strategies will be pivotal in shaping the team’s trajectory. Fans eagerly await the Blue-Gold Game, which will provide insights into the team’s readiness and areas for improvement as they march toward the fall campaign.