Notre Dame Football Stat of the Day: Repeating Fourth Down Success in 2025

Notre Dame will have a new starting quarterback in 2025, and while we don't know if that'll be CJ Carr or Kenny Minchey, one thing is certain: it won't be Riley Leonard.

The hope is that Carr or Minchey helps lead Notre Dame's offensive to a better downfield passing attack, but what happens on fourth-and-short? Or on third-and-short for that matter?

Say what you want about Leonard's downfield passing ability, his ability as a runner created havoc for opposing defenses - especially in short-yardage situations. If you recall the memorable opening drive against Ohio State in the National Championship Game, Leonard took the ball himself to convert a pair of fourth-and-1 runs.

Notre Dame will have what should be one of the nation's top offensive lines to run behind, as well as the deepest and most talented running back room in the country. However, neither Carr or Minchey can be expected to be half of what Leonard was as a runner, including in short yardage situations.

Nick Shepkowski's Quick Takeaway:

Overall, I feel great about the direction of Notre Dame's offense and its ability to beat you in more ways. Short yardage appears to be a question entering 2025. Yes, having Jeremiyah Love, Jadarian Price, and a stable of quality running backs is a good thing, but not having the threat of Leonard makes the task more difficult.

Will Notre Dame be able to challenge that .733 fourth-down conversion rate again in 2025?

If so, it could be a huge difference in a potential playoff run, just like it was in last season's Sugar Bowl.

If not, it could cost Notre Dame early as battles at Miami and against Texas A&M come right out of the chute.