Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard has spoken openly about his faith and belief in God throughout his college career.
On Wednesday, Leonard told reporters before the national championship game against Ohio State that he believes the open faith players have in each team is the reason they compete for college football’s top prize.
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Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard, #13, points a pass during the first half of the Orange Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff semifinal game against Penn State on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
“I really believe things happen for a reason. Not just us, but Ohio State. I think we’re the top two teams that publicly show our faith the most,” he said via Sports Michiana. “I don’t know if this is some divine teaching, you know, who put us here.
“I truly believe Jesus was looking over our shoulders all season long and put these two teams on a pedestal for a reason.”
Leonard has been open about his faith, especially in the College Football Playoffs.
OHIO STATE PLAYER, TIKTOK STAR FIRED BEFORE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME AGAINST NOTRE DAME
Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard, No. 13, throws oranges to his teammates after winning the Orange Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game against Penn State on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Florida. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
He was asked what changed in the second half of their victory over Penn State in the semifinals.
“Wow, I just started trusting the Lord. I looked up and said, ‘Jesus, whatever your will is for my life, I trust it 100%.’ This offense and this team trust in Jesus and his plan for this season,” he said via The Deseret.
He also thanked God after the Fighting Irish’s victory over Georgia.
“First of all I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without him, I would not be here and we would not be here as the whole group,” he said.
Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard, No. 13, celebrates after a quarterfinal game against Georgia in a College Football Playoff game Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Notre Dame will play Ohio State for the title on Monday night.
