Eric Boggs 
Jeremiyah Love was a big reason why Notre Dame opened their 2024 season with a big win on the road in the SEC.
Notre Dame pulled off a significant upset in Week 1 of the college football season, defeating No. 20 Texas A&M 23-13 on the road in College Station. The Fighting Irish, entering the game as underdogs, showcased a gritty, defense-driven performance that left a lasting impression.
The Irish defense was the star of the night, holding Texas A&M to just 246 total yards. Aggies quarterback Conner Weigman struggled mightily, completing only 12 of 30 passes for 100 yards, with two interceptions and no touchdowns. Notre Dame’s relentless pressure kept him off balance, effectively neutralizing Texas A&M’s offense.
On the other side of the ball, Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard made his first start for the Irish after transferring from Duke. Facing his former coach Mike Elko, Leonard rose to the occasion, completing 18 of 30 passes for 158 yards and adding 63 rushing yards on 12 carries. Though his numbers weren’t eye-popping, Leonard’s leadership and poise were crucial. Despite missing much of spring practice due to a foot procedure, Leonard was the steady presence the Irish needed, guiding them through a tough environment.
The game was tied at 13 with under seven minutes left when Notre Dame mounted a crucial drive. The Irish marched down the field on an eight-play, 85-yard drive, culminating in a 21-yard touchdown run by Jeremiyah Love with less than two minutes remaining. Texas A&M couldn’t respond, and Notre Dame sealed the win with a field goal in the final minute.
This victory is more than just a solid start for Notre Dame; it’s a potential season-defining win. For head coach Marcus Freeman, now in his third year, the stakes were high. His tenure has seen its share of ups and downs, including some tough losses and off-field challenges. But this win could be a turning point, setting Notre Dame on a path toward a College Football Playoff berth.
Freeman’s leadership, much like Leonard’s, was on full display. The win provides a critical boost for the program, and with it, Notre Dame is now in a prime position to make a playoff run. The Irish will need to keep this momentum, but for now, they’ve taken a significant step forward.
This was a game Notre Dame needed, and they delivered. As the season progresses, this victory could be the one that changes the narrative surrounding Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish.
About The Author
