Marcus Freeman wants Riley Leonard to 'stay in the moment' vs. Florida State amid strong stretch of play

Riley Leonard has looked better and better for Notre Dame as the season has progressed, with the transfer quarterback seemingly settling in to his new surroundings. And Marcus Freeman doesn’t want his quarterback to step out of whatever flow he’s currently in.

Ahead of a home matchup against Florida State, Freeman told NBC sideline reporter Kathryn Tappen that he just wants his quarterback to focus on the next play and stay right in the moment.

“He’s just got to stay in the moment,” Freeman said. “And trust his preparation, trust his reads, be confident and worry about this play because the last play doesn’t matter.”

It looked good to start, as Leonard connected on a handful of passes to open the game before scampering through the Florida State defense for a 34-yard touchdown scramble to open the scoring. He started strong on the ground in general, racking up 52 rushing yards on five carries along with 61 passing yards through nearly two quarters.

And while the Seminoles have had a lowly season, Freeman came into Saturday with plenty of respect for the problems they can cause.

“We’ve got the choice to listen to the noise,” Freeman said. “All you have to do is turn on the film and realize the challenge this team presents. So we’ve got a great challenge. Our guys are excited for this great opportunity and we’re ready to roll.”

Leonard ultimately looked crisp in a blowout victory for the Irish.

En route to a 52-3 win, Leonard went 14-of-27 passing for 215 yards and a touchdown and added 70 yards and two touchdowns with his legs on the night on 11 carries.

All told, Notre Dame outgained Florida State 453-208 on the night and rushed for more than 200 yards to get to 8-1 on the season.