THE FIGHTING IRISH SINK FLORIDA STATE INTO THE DEPTHS WITH A 52-3 WIN
Updated: Oct 31
Welcome to Notre Dame Stadium, the home of the Fighting Irish since 1930. This stadium, steeped in history, is one of the oldest and most iconic venues in college football. With its famous view of the Touchdown Jesus mural and gothic-style architecture, it exudes a unique charm. On game days, the atmosphere here is as exhilarating as St. Patrick’s Day itself: the stands awash in green, lively Irish music, and the enthusiastic fans, who carry the energy from the tailgate right into the stadium. The seven large flower pots lining the field even add a rustic touch, enhancing the unique character of this place.
Tonight, fencing star Lee Kiefer and WNBA champion Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces were present to honor the university, a reminder of Notre Dame’s prestige, which saw 13 of its alumni participate in the recent Paris Olympics.
It’s a challenging night for Florida State. After a promising 2024 season and a wave of players drafted into the NFL, the Seminoles are in crisis: recruits are withdrawing, the coaching staff is under pressure, and results fall far below expectations. Facing the Fighting Irish, currently ranked tenth, they are hoping for a spark—or perhaps a bit of luck—to restore their reputation.
In the first quarter, Notre Dame shows its determination. Quarterback Riley Leonard opens the score with a 34-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Fighting Irish an ideal start. Florida State, meanwhile, takes some risks, successfully attempting two fourth-down conversions and covering 75 yards to end with a 23-yard field goal from Ryan Fitzgerald. 7-3 Notre Dame.
Typically calm, the South Bend press box erupted in applause tonight to celebrate a journalist covering his 500th Notre Dame college football game—a remarkable milestone!
The defenses for both teams are solid, resulting in a series of consecutive punts and keeping the score at 7-3. Finally, Notre Dame’s running back, Jadarian Price, electrifies the crowd with an impressive 65-yard touchdown run, pushing the score to 14-3 early in the second quarter.
Florida State tries to regain momentum by switching quarterbacks, handing the reins to Luke Kromenhoek, but he is quickly pressured by Rylie Mills, who registers two consecutive sacks and forces another punt.
Notre Dame responds with two successive drives, though Mitch Jeter’s 46-yard field goal attempt misses the mark. However, with less than two minutes left in the half, the Fighting Irish take control once more. Leonard connects with Jordan Faison for a 22-yard gain before finding his tight end Mitchell Evans for a 12-yard touchdown pass, sending Notre Dame into halftime leading 21-3.
In the second half, Notre Dame’s defense continues to dominate, keeping quarterback Brock Glenn, back in the game, under constant pressure. Rylie Mills shines with his third sack of the night, and an interception places the Fighting Irish in a prime offensive position. Leonard quickly capitalizes on this opportunity, scoring another touchdown and extending the lead to 28-3.
Florida State makes more substitutions, but nothing changes: Luke Kromenhoek is sacked by Donovan Hinish, and the Seminoles' overwhelmed offensive line concedes a sixth sack. Jalen Sneed adds to the tally with a blitz on an unsuccessful fourth-down attempt by Florida State.
Notre Dame keeps the momentum, adding a field goal to bring the score to 31-3.
The Fighting Irish fans fully enjoy their lead, mockingly chanting Florida State’s “Tomahawk Chop,” as the Leprechaun mascot would.
Midway through the final quarter, Coach Freeman gives his reserves some playing time. Backup quarterback Steve Angeli takes advantage, connecting with Deion Colzie for a touchdown. Notre Dame finishes strong as Luke Talich intercepts a pass and returns it 79 yards for one last touchdown in front of an ecstatic crowd. The final score is 52-3, giving the Fighting Irish a resounding victory in a festive atmosphere.
Notre Dame will host Virginia on Saturday, while Florida State has a bye week before hosting Charleston Southern the following week.
Key Performances and Statistics:
Notre Dame Fighting Irish:
Riley Leonard: 14/27 passes, 215 yards, 1 TD / 11 rushes for 70 yards and 2 TDs
Jadarian Price: 7 rushes, 95 yards, 1 TD
Jaden Greathouse: 5 receptions, 66 yards, 1 TD
Rylie Mills: 5 tackles, 3 sacks
Notre Dame Defense: 8 Sacks and 2 Interceptions
Florida State Seminoles:
Brock Glenn: 5/18 passes, 51 yards, 0 TD, 2 interceptions
Luke Kromenhoek: 5/8 passes, 37 yards
Lawrance Toafili: 16 rushes, 77 yards, 0 TD
Shyheim Brown: 5 tackles
Game Highlights:
