Why Notre Dame Fans Should Be “Stoked” if Kenny Minchey Wins the Quarterback Battle: Analyst Weighs In on Rising Star in South Bend

As Notre Dame continues its fall camp under the watchful eyes of head coach Marcus Freeman and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, all eyes are locked in on the most crucial competition of the offseason — the quarterback battle. With a deep and talented room that includes veteran transfer Riley Leonard and redshirt freshman Kenny Minchey, the question of who will lead the Fighting Irish under center in 2025 remains unanswered. But while Leonard may bring experience and poise to the position, a growing number of analysts are sounding the alarm in a good way: if Kenny Minchey comes out on top, Notre Dame fans should be “stoked.”

That’s the word used by one national college football analyst this week, and it’s a statement that’s starting to carry weight inside and outside the Notre Dame locker room. Far from a generic endorsement, the analyst’s enthusiasm stems from what he and others have observed in Minchey’s development — both physically and mentally — since arriving in South Bend. The former four-star recruit out of Tennessee is no longer the wide-eyed freshman learning behind the scenes. He’s a confident, polished, and increasingly assertive quarterback who might be on the verge of taking the reins of one of college football’s most iconic programs.

To understand why this buzz is gaining steam, it’s important to trace Minchey’s journey to this point. Coming out of Pope John Paul II High School in Hendersonville, Tennessee, Minchey was a late riser in the 2023 recruiting cycle. His arm talent, accuracy, and high football IQ made him a coveted prospect, ultimately flipping his commitment from Pitt to Notre Dame. When he enrolled, it was clear the Irish saw him as a long-term piece, someone to groom slowly into a potential starter. But sometimes, talent matures faster than expected.

That’s exactly what seems to be happening now.

Minchey spent his freshman year largely in the shadows, learning the playbook, adjusting to the speed of the college game, and gaining valuable reps in practice. But in spring ball and early fall camp, the leap has been undeniable. Coaches have noted his improved command at the line of scrimmage, his ability to read defenses post-snap, and his sharp decision-making in live drills. More than that, he’s showing confidence. Not the loud, look-at-me kind of confidence, but the quiet, steady, unshakable type that coaches love in a young quarterback.

The analyst who delivered the “stoked” comment elaborated by saying that if Minchey beats out a proven Power Five quarterback like Leonard, it’s not a sign of weakness in the room — it’s proof that Minchey is already special. Leonard, the highly regarded transfer from Duke, was brought in for a reason. He’s tough, experienced, mobile, and battle-tested in the ACC. But Minchey, without that same college game log, is making a serious case to lead this offense — and that’s no small feat.

From a talent perspective, Minchey checks nearly every box. He has a compact but quick release, delivers the ball with velocity and touch, and shows advanced accuracy on intermediate throws. He’s also more athletic than some give him credit for, able to escape the pocket when needed and extend plays with his legs. But what truly sets him apart is his ability to process quickly and anticipate windows in coverage. These aren’t common traits for quarterbacks his age, and they’re part of why coaches are so intrigued.

If Minchey were to win the starting job, it would also signal a long-term investment in the offense’s future. Notre Dame has been seeking sustained continuity at quarterback for several seasons — something that has eluded the program with recent transfers and short-term starters. With Minchey, there’s the opportunity to build a system and an identity around a quarterback who could be under center for multiple years. That stability could translate into a more cohesive offensive unit and allow younger skill position players to grow alongside their quarterback.

The excitement around Minchey is not lost on his teammates either. Reports from camp suggest that receivers trust him. He throws a catchable ball, delivers on time, and isn’t afraid to take shots downfield. He’s also stepping into a leadership role, taking ownership of huddles and commanding attention in team meetings. These are intangibles that can’t be coached — and they matter, especially in tight games when confidence and trust are tested.

For fans wondering what a Minchey-led offense might look like, there are plenty of reasons for optimism. With Notre Dame’s offensive line expected to be strong once again, Minchey wouldn’t need to play hero ball every down. He’d be operating behind protection and with a talented stable of running backs, allowing the offense to stay balanced. More importantly, offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock has a track record of tailoring schemes to fit his quarterback’s strengths. With Minchey’s quick release, precision, and timing, expect an offense that leans into rhythm passing, quick reads, and play-action concepts.

There’s also the matter of trajectory. If Minchey is already pushing for the starting role as a redshirt freshman, what does that say about his ceiling? Many believe that with continued growth and experience, he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in college football. That’s not hype — that’s projection based on tangible development and measurable skill.

Of course, it’s important to note that the competition isn’t over. Riley Leonard is not backing down, nor should he. The battle could go well into the final weeks of camp, and the coaching staff is taking a measured approach. They want the best player on the field in Week 1, regardless of age or hype. But the fact that Minchey is even in this position speaks volumes about his growth and potential. It’s not about forcing a youth movement — it’s about putting the best player under center. And if that player happens to be Minchey, fans should be excited.

The analyst’s use of the word “stoked” may seem casual on the surface, but it carries weight when you unpack it. It’s not just about being optimistic — it’s about recognizing that something special could be happening in South Bend. For too long, Notre Dame has been searching for a true franchise quarterback, someone who could not only win games but elevate the program. Kenny Minchey, if he wins this battle, could be that guy.

The buzz around Minchey is no longer just about potential. It’s about performance. And as he continues to make his case with every practice rep, every throw, and every read, the Notre Dame staff, his teammates, and now the media are all beginning to see the same thing: a star might be emerging.

For Notre Dame fans who have endured seasons of quarterback uncertainty, the rise of Minchey should feel like a breath of fresh air. He’s young, yes — but he’s sharp, driven, and unfazed by pressure. If he wins the job, it won’t be by default. It will be because he earned it. And that’s exactly the kind of quarterback fans should be stoked about. Not just for this season — but for the seasons to come.