MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Riley Leonard experienced a challenging moment but ultimately enjoyed a triumphant night, securing a pivotal victory in his college football career and paving the way towards a national championship opportunity. Leonard contributed significantly by throwing for 223 yards and rushing for an additional 33 yards, leading the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a 27-24 win over Penn State in the Orange Bowl on Thursday evening.
Leonard not only scored on the ground but also had another rushing touchdown. This performance came after he was sidelined for the final two minutes of the first half due to a concussion evaluation. He was cleared to return and will now lead his team in the championship game scheduled for January 20, where they will face either Ohio State or Texas, with the matchup to be determined on Friday at the Cotton Bowl.
“The medical staff did an excellent job,” Leonard remarked. “I got up feeling a bit unsteady, which prompted them to take me for testing. After passing all the assessments, I was cleared to return.”
Leonard entered the medical tent after being struck hard by Penn State defenders Zane Durant and Dvon J-Thomas, leading to a potential concussion scare when his helmet struck the ground. During his absence, Steve Angeli took over, leading the team to a 41-yard field goal right before halftime, reducing Penn State’s lead to 10-3.
Despite Angeli’s brief time on the field consisting of a 6-for-7, 44-yard drive, he played a crucial role. “Steve has been diligent in preparing as a starter throughout the season, waiting for his chance,” Leonard acknowledged. “His maturity and support have been invaluable; he understands the defense well and is a good friend. His contribution at the end of the half was significant.”
Leonard’s return was essential, with his evaluation based on earlier season baseline tests aiding in his return to the field. “He’s a fierce competitor,” commented Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman. “Competitors like him find ways to win, and that’s exactly what Riley and this team embody.”
After halftime, Leonard orchestrated a smooth eight-play, 75-yard drive that concluded with a three-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 10-10. In another defining moment, Leonard connected with Jaden Greathouse on a 54-yard pass, bringing the game to a 24-24 tie late in the fourth quarter, and Mitch Jeter’s 41-yard field goal with just eight seconds left clinched the victory for Notre Dame.
Leonard reflected on Freeman’s motivational halftime speech, stating, “He inspired us by saying, ‘History is made by those who conquer, and we’re the ones holding the pen.’ We had the belief and carried it through.”
Leonard also demonstrated his skills as he began the second half by finding Aneyas Williams for a crucial 36-yard gain on his first pass, with the following plays resulting in strong runs, particularly from Leonard, who had already accumulated 15 rushing touchdowns this season.
In the first half, Leonard completed six out of eleven passes for 63 yards, while in the second half, he excelled with nine completions from twelve attempts totaling 160 yards, leading the Irish to score 24 points in the last half of the game.
“We aimed to instill calm and collected energy within the team,” Freeman added. “Our running game opened up the passing options significantly in the second half. Riley executed the game plan effectively, along with contributions from the wide receivers, offensive line, and tight ends, culminating in that game-winning field goal.”
