CJ Carr shines as Notre Dame holds annual Jersey Scrimmage ahead of Blue-Gold Game

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With just three spring practices remaining, including the Blue-Gold Game on Saturday, April 25, Notre Dame took another step toward the end of spring camp during its annual Jersey Scrimmage on Saturday.

The biggest takeaway from the day was, of course, quarterback CJ Carr. Carr drew praise for a poised and polished performance, showing command of the offense and an ability to respond to nearly everything the defense threw at him. Even head coach Marcus Freeman said Carr’s value goes beyond arm talent and preparation.

“I can speak for hours about his arm talent, his film study, but he puts your offense in positions to have success,” Freeman said. “You don’t have to have a coach tell you everything. He’s able to understand a play. He’s able to see what the defense is doing and put us in a position that usually ends up in a positive play.”

Staying on the offensive side of the ball, the wide receiver room continues to offer intrigue. Much of the attention remains on players such as Mylan Graham and Jordan Faison, but several others are pushing to carve out roles heading into the fall, especially Cam Williams and Jerome Bettis Jr.

Bettis was sidelined Saturday while wearing a boot on his left foot, creating more opportunity for freshman receiver Devin Fitzgerald. And Fitzgerald did not hold back.

The freshman hauled in touchdown catches of 65 and 32 yards, turning in one of the day’s most impressive performances and continuing a strong spring.

“He’ll continue to be put in elevated positions to continue to show what he can do against better competition,” Freeman said. “He’s had a good spring. He’s made big plays like that throughout the spring. And today I wasn’t surprised. And he’ll continue to get better, and he’s getting better. But he’s doing a really good job.”

The remaining challenge for the Irish is determining the right combinations and the best way to maximize that talent before the season begins.