CJ Carr Named Notre Dame Starter: A New Era for the Fighting Irish

QB Battle

Carr battled Kenny Minchey throughout camp in what was a true competition. Some don’t want to admit how close the race really was, but both QBs pushed each other. From what I saw in the spring game, Carr separated himself with his arm talent and ability to process quickly.

He wasn’t flawless. Carr threw interceptions, just like Minchey. But facing one of the top three defenses in the country, that’s expected. I’d rather my QB make those mistakes in practice than in a live game.

Freeman summed it up perfectly.

“They’re both really good players,” Freeman said. “They both have a short-term memory, able to move forward from mistakes. They’re both coachable. They work outside the NCAA-mandated hours. There’s not much negative I ca n say about them. Those dudes are improving and doing a really good job.”

That tells you either quarterback can play when called upon.

Carr’s Strengths

Carr is still unproven, but his skill set fits Notre Dame’s offense. He processes information at a high rate, when he has his cleats in the ground, he makes sound decisions and the ball arrives on time. Last but not least, his ability to be aware of the pocket. Carr isn’t considered a dual-threat but is sneaky athletic. He can extend plays with his legs when necessary. This gives the Irish a foundation to build consistency at quarterback.

Baptism By Fire

Carr’s first start comes with no warm-up as Notre Dame opens on the road against Carson Beck and No. 10 Miami in prime time. It’s as tough of a debut as you’ll find—hostile crowd, top-10 opponent and high stakes.

It’s a baptism by fire, but also an opportunity. If Carr proves himself on that stage, Freeman’s decision will look brilliant from day one.

Naming Carr the starter is about more than the 2025 opener. It’s about investing in the program’s future. Developing Carr now avoids the patchwork approach that has slowed Notre Dame in recent years.

If Carr delivers, Notre Dame not only finds stability but also strengthens its recruiting pitch. Young QBs will see that the Irish develop their own—and that they can start, grow and shine in South Bend.

Bottom Line

The challenge ahead is massive, but the upside is bigger. If Carr settles in quickly, he could finally give Notre Dame the steady hand at quarterback it’s been missing. For Irish fans, the future doesn’t feel distant anymore—it starts now.