Rece Davis predicts CJ Carr wins Notre Dame’s QB job, but the competition isn't over.
Rece Davis Reveals Who He Thinks Will Win QB Battle At Notre Dame originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish's quarterback battle is one of the more compelling storylines entering the 2025 college football season. With Steve Angeli transferring after spring practice, the competition is down to two names: Kenny Minchey and five-star freshman CJ Carr.
ESPN’s Rece Davis said he believes Carr is the favorite to win the job, though he emphasized it’s just speculation based on public perception.
“I think most believe it will be Carr, ultimately,” Davis said. “That’s not Pete Thamel news breaking it. ... I’m just saying the outside perception for those of us who watch think it will probably be Carr.”
Carr, the son of former Michigan Wolverines QB Jason Carr and grandson of ex-Wolverines coach Lloyd Carr, made headlines after a strong showing in the spring game. But ESPN insider Pete Thamel added some nuance to the situation, revealing that those inside the program have been impressed with Minchey throughout the offseason.
“Everyone saw Carr crush the spring game, and I think that’s where sentiment and perception came from,” Thamel said. “But Minchey is an impressive guy, and he hits better with what [offensive coordinator] Mike Denbrock has done.”
Minchey, a redshirt freshman, brings more mobility to the table, something Denbrock has used to his advantage in past offenses with Jayden Daniels of the LSU Tigers and Riley Leonard of the Duke Blue Devils.
Carr, meanwhile, is a polished passer who fits the mold of a traditional pro-style quarterback. Denbrock previously coached at Notre Dame twice (2002 to 2004 and 2010 to 2016).
Notre Dame's new offensive coordinator may influence the final decision, but the schedule adds pressure. Head coach Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish open the season at Miami, in what could prove to be their toughest opponent during the regular season.
Davis says nothing’s off the table: “I asked Marcus that. His response... was ‘I will do whatever it takes to help this team win football games.’” Whether that means a two-quarterback system or not, Notre Dame needs a clear leader at the helm if it wants to stay in the playoff hunt.
The Fighting Irish visit the Hurricanes at 7:30 p.m. ET Aug. 31.
Related: Marcus Freeman Reveals His Biggest Regret from Notre Dame’s National Championship Loss
Related: Grandson of Legendary Michigan Head Coach Projected To Win Notre Dame QB Battle
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
