Notre Dame Triumphs Over Miami in Primetime Opener Behind CJ Carr’s Poise

SOUTH BEND, Ind., August 31, 2025 - In a compelling season opener on Sunday night at Hard Rock Stadium, redshirt freshman quarterback CJ Carr made his first collegiate start and guided the No. 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a hard-fought 24-17 victory over the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes. Carr, a Michigan native and grandson of former Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr, displayed remarkable composure under the prime-time pressure of his debut.

Carr, who was officially named Notre Dame’s starting quarterback on August 19 after a close competition in fall camp, balanced aggressive playmaking with careful game management. Though Miami applied its usually formidable defensive fronts, Carr’s efficient passing and sound decision-making kept the Irish offense moving at critical moments.

“We kept things simple, trusted our game plan, and executed when it mattered,” Carr said postgame. “My teammates responded every time we needed a big play, and that made all the difference.”

The Irish defense also rose to the occasion, forcing multiple turnovers on Miami’s quarterback Carson Beck, including two interceptions that set up Notre Dame’s scoring drives. Head coach Marcus Freeman praised Carr’s leadership and the collective resilience of his team: “CJ stepped into the spotlight and handled it exactly how we drew it up. Our defense gave him chances, and he delivered.”

Notre Dame will return home next week to face a non-conference opponent, looking to build on the balanced offensive attack and stout defensive effort that characterized their season opener.