Notre Dame advanced to the National Championship for the first time since 1988 after a dramatic 27-24 comeback victory over Penn State in the 2025 Orange Bowl. Despite enduring injuries to key players, including starting quarterback Riley Leonard, the Fighting Irish delivered a performance defined by resilience and determination, capped by Mitch Jeter’s game-winning 41-yard field goal as time expired.
Riley Leonard’s Heroics Propel Notre Dame to Victory
Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard faced a major setback late in the second quarter when he exited the game with an apparent concussion after a brutal hit from Penn State’s 305-pound defensive tackle Dvon J-Thomas. Backup quarterback Steve Angeli stepped into the spotlight, completing 6-of-7 passes for 44 yards to salvage a 41-yard Mitch Jeter field goal, narrowing the deficit to 10-3 at halftime.
However, Leonard returned to start the second half and changed the game’s trajectory. He opened with a methodical eight-play, 75-yard drive, finishing with a 3-yard touchdown run to tie the game at 10-10. Later in the fourth quarter, Leonard delivered a perfectly placed 54-yard touchdown pass to Jaden Greathouse, leveling the score once again at 24-24 with under five minutes remaining.
“I knew I had to get back out there,” Leonard told ESPN after the game. “This team counts on me to lead, and I wasn’t going to let them down.”
Notre Dame’s Depth Tested by Key Injuries
The Fighting Irish faced significant adversity as injuries mounted throughout the game. Starting left tackle Anthonie Knapp exited in the first half with an ankle injury. Right guard Rocco Spindler and wide receiver Beaux Collins also left the game before halftime. Knapp’s absence forced graduate senior Tosh Baker into action, while sophomore Charles Jagusah, fresh off a recovery from a torn p ectoral, filled in for Spindler. Despite these setbacks, Notre Dame’s offensive line held strong against Penn State’s fearsome front seven, led by standout edge rusher Abdul Carter.
Running back Jeremiyah Love took full advantage of the improved blocking in the second half, powering into the end zone on a 2-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. This score gave Notre Dame its first lead of the game at 17-10 and shifted momentum in favor of the Irish. Love, who has dealt with injuries throughout the season, demonstrated his ability to perform in high-pressure situations against one of the nation’s top-ranked run defenses.
Penn State Battles but Falls Short
Penn State’s offense shined through the efforts of running back Nicholas Singleton, who scored three rushing touchdowns, including a critical 5-yard run in the fourth quarter that gave the Nittany Lions a 24-17 lead. Quarterback Drew Allar made key plays under pressure but ultimately faltered late in the game. A costly interception by Notre Dame cornerback Christian Gray in the final minute set the stage for the Irish’s game-winning drive.
“We had our opportunities, but we didn’t execute in the key moments,” Penn State head coach James Franklin said postgame. “Notre Dame capitalized where we didn’t.”
Mitch Jeter Delivers in the Clutch
With the game tied at 24-24 and just 33 seconds remaining, Notre Dame kicker Mitch Jeter stepped up to deliver the defining moment. Jeter calmly nailed a 41-yard field goal, securing the victory and sending the Irish to the National Championship. His teammates swarmed the field in celebration as the Hard Rock Stadium erupted in cheers.
“It’s a moment I’ve dreamed about my entire career,” Jeter said. “When my number was called, I knew I had to deliver.”
Notre Dame Eyes Historic Title Opportunity
The victory propels Notre Dame to its first National Championship appearance since 1988, when the Irish last claimed college football’s ultimate prize. Head coach Marcus Freeman, in just his third year leading the program, has reignited the Fighting Irish’s championship aspirations with a balanced offense and a disciplined defense. Freeman praised his team’s resilience after the game, highlighting their ability to overcome adversity.
“This team has shown heart all season,” Freeman said. “We’ve faced injuries, tough opponents, and high expectations, but our focus and determination have never wavered. Tonight, we proved why we belong.”
Notre Dame will now face the winner of the Texas vs. Ohio State semifinal in what promises to be an electrifying National Championship showdown in Atlanta. The Irish will have the opportunity to claim their 14th national title and end a 37-year drought since their iconic 1988 victory under Lou Holtz.
Key players like Riley Leonard, Jeremiyah Love, and Jaden Greathouse will be pivotal as the Irish look to cement their legacy. With Leonard’s dual-threat ability and the defense’s capability to step up in crucial moments, Notre Dame enters the championship game as a dangerous and determined contender.
The Fighting Irish’s path to Atlanta has been marked by grit, perseverance, and standout performances. As fans await the championship game, one question remains: Can Notre Dame reclaim college football’s ultimate prize and etch their name into history once more?
