Marcus Freeman sticking with Riley Leonard in the run game

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The approach to Notre Dame's offensive game plan has always been the run game. Specifically, QB Riley Leonard and his ability to use his legs.

Coming off the bye week Notre Dame is preparing for Stanford in the annual Legends Trophy matchup. The Irish hold a 23-14 overall record against Stanford. A 56-23 win in 2023 was put Notre Dame back in the win column after a shocking 16-14 loss to the Cardinal in 2022, during Freeman's first season.

The 2023 win was a statement victory. Led by Notre Dame's 381 rushing yards and you can assume the Irish will have the same approach this Saturday. This season has been better than previous years, as the team's leading rusher is quarterback Riley Leonard with 376 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

Even against a tough opponent, don't expect the game plan to change. Stanford's defense averages 88 yards per game.

"He gives our offense a chance to have success running the ball, you know, and so we have to utilize his legs," Freeman said," Freeman said.

Notre Dame is 19th in the country averaging 214 rushing yards per game.

"We have to utilize his ability to run the ball, but also understand you don't want your quarterback getting hurt, but he wants the ball in his hands. He's a competitor, and we'll continue to utilize him in a running game where we feel necessary," Freeman added.