Riley Leonard reacts to Sugar Bowl win: 'This is why I came to Notre Dame'

On Thursday, Riley Leonard continued to live out his childhood dreams, leading Notre Dame to 23-10 win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl to advance to the College Football Playoff semifinals. After the game, Leonard raved about the victory.

“It’s incredible. I kind of always say this is why I came to Notre Dame,” Leonard said. “We got a lot of work left to do. It was an ugly one, but we got it done. Once again, shout out to the defense. They played outstanding, and that was a really good team we played. So, man, I’m just so grateful for this opportunity. This is a beautiful thing and a dream come true.”

Leonard transferred to Notre Dame this offseason after spending three years at Duke. Although he’s only been at Notre Dame for one season, he embodies the Fighting Irish spirit, always willing to put his body on the line for his team.

Leonard’s fearless attitude paid dividends on Thursday evening, as the standout QB recorded 80 rushing yards on 14 carries. Leonard was also solid in the passer’s pocket, completing 15-of-his-24 pass attempts for 90 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception.

Following the victory, Leonard discussed his willingness to take a hit for a few extra yards.

“When you’re struggling in the passing game, you got to put your body on the line and whatever it takes to win. That’s what I tell these guys all the time,” Leonard said. “I try to lead by example. I put my body out on the line. Hopefully, that lets these guys know how much I care about them, how much I care about this university.”

It hasn’t always been easy for the Fighting Irish to be so optimistic. After suffering a stunning upset loss against Northern Illinois in Week 2, countless outsiders wrote off Notre Dame. Nonetheless, Riley Leonard and Co. kept their noses to the grindstone.

“When you trust in the Lord, anything can happen,” Leonard said. “This team fought every single week. I mean, that [loss] was the lowest of the low. We didn’t know, but we had to trust beyond knowing. We trusted this group, trusted our fans, and week in and week out, we fought, and it’s finally paid off, so hard work does pay off.”

Now, Notre Dame will have another chance to show off the fruits of its labor. On Jan. 9, the Fighting Irish will square off against Penn State in the Orange Bowl with a chance to advance to the national championship on the line. Leonard is excited for the opportuntity.

“We need to do what we’ve been doing the past 13 weeks or so,” Leonard said. “Our superpower is in the preparation and the character of this locker room. So, we’re not going to change a thing. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”