Notre Dame Fighting Irish Face Uphill Battle to Claim First National Championship Since 1988
Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard is determined to lead his team to their first national championship since 1988, and he is relying on his faith to guide him. Leonard led the Fighting Irish on an 18-play, 75-yard drive in the first half of the College Football Playoff national championship game against Ohio State, culminating in a 1-yard rushing touchdown.
After scoring, Leonard pointed to his arm band, which read “Matthew 23:12,” a Bible verse that says, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Leonard has previously expressed that this verse is one of his favorite quotes in the Bible and feels that it brings him back down to earth when others try to put him on a pedestal.
The Irish were two for two on fourth down during the drive, and they took an early 7-0 lead. Despite the strong start, the Buckeyes are likely to present a tough challenge, and Notre Dame will need to dig deep to emerge victorious.