Riley Leonard praises Steve Angeli for stepping in during Orange Bowl after injury

For a small sliver of time, Notre Dame was playing without Riley Leonard against Penn State. Leonard took a big hit and had to undergo tests for a concussion. Steve Angeli was forced into the game and in a big spot — Notre Dame needed points right before half and needed to put together a drive.

Angeli stepped up and helped the Irish get a field goal, cutting Penn State’s lead to 10-3. And getting the ball back out of the break, with Riley back in the game, a touchdown tied the game up early in the third quarter. A massive momentum swing, all ignited by Angeli’s brief moment of play.

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Leonard was asked about Angeli after the game, having high praise for his backup. There appears to be some confidence if a quarterback change is ever made — certainly from Leonard himself.

“You talk about a guy that’s had my back all year,” Leonard said on the postgame stage. “Prepares like he’s going to be the starting quarterback every single week. Have so much respect for this guy. He’s an outstanding player. Everybody on our team believed he was going to go out there and drive us. We put points on the board so, shoutout to Steve Angeli as well.”

Marcus Freeman was asked a similar question about the situation but during the game. ESPN’s Molly McGrath was with the Notre Dame head coach as they went into the locker room, asking about Leonard’s status. Freeman provided the update and also stated he is confident in both guys.

“We’re confident in Steve if Steve has to go,” Freeman said. “If Riley can go, we’re confident in Riley.”

Angeli entered with just over 1:30 remaining in the first half. He wound up throwing seven passes, completing six of them for 44 yards. Notre Dame fans inside Hard Rock Stadium did hold their breath at one point as Angeli took a huge hit and put the ball on the ground. Thankfully for them, the Irish recovered and the drive continued.

Mitch Jeter then hit a 41-yard field goal as time expired, turning out to be the second biggest field goal he hit on the night.

Notre Dame likely is not hoping Angeli has to play on Jan. 20 from Atlanta. Leonard has been their guy all season and continues to come through in clutch situations. Especially when facing a team like Ohio State or Texas, Leonard could wind up being a difference maker.

Angeli proved he is ready for the moment if it comes, though. From the starter to his head coach, confidence appears to ooze.