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Riley Leonard left the game late in the first half after sustaining an apparent head injury.
The hit took place on Notre Dame’s final drive of the half. After the play, Leonard appeared a bit unbalanced and was directed to leave the field by an official. He did not return to Notre Dame’s lineup during the final drive of the half.
Here’s the play in question:
At halftime, head coach Marcus Freeman told ESPN that he did not have any clarity on whether or not Leonard would be able to return for the 2nd half.
“I haven’t heard, they’re going to check him out right now,” Freeman said on ESPN. “They just told me right before the field goal they don’t have an answer yet what it’s going to be.”
Steve Angeli replaced Leonard and operated Notre Dame’s offensive very effectively on a 2-minute drill that ended with 3 points. He completed 6-of-7 passes for 44 yards on the drive. However, he also fumbled once and took 2 sacks on the drive.
If Leonard isn’t able to return in the 2nd half, ball security will be a majority priority as Notre Dame tries to erase this deficit after the break.
FanDuel lists Notre Dame as a 7.5-point underdog on the live line at halftime of the Orange Bowl.
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Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
