(Notre Dame) — As a prelude to next Saturday’s annual Blue-Gold Game, Notre Dame’s football team held a 60-play scrimmage Saturday afternoon inside the Irish Athletics Center.

The defense won the scrimmage, 25-23, using the scoring system employed by the coaches.  If anything, the defense probably played to more of an advantage through the day, with several players gaining notice.

Of course, all eyes were on the three-man quarterback derby, but neither Steve Angeli, C.J. Carr or Kenny Minchey showed much separation.

“I don’t truly believe the coaches have a timeline,” said Freeman about the decision on a starter. “I think the players kind of decide when decisions need to be made. As soon as there’s a clear starter, we’ll name a clear starter.”

Fans can anticipate seeing all three in action next Saturday. Minchey led a touchdown drive, highlighted by a long tight end screen to Eli Raridon. Aneyas Williams punched in the touchdown on a fourth-and-goal after the defense extended the drive with an offsides penalty. Later, Minchey threw the only interception of the day, as Isaiah Dunn read a sideline route.

Carr always garners attention with his throws, and closed the scrimmage with a fourth-down touchdown bomb to freshman Elijah Burress.  Angeli suffered a couple drops from his receiving corps…a recurring theme from last season, but also showed good pocket presence of when to run and when to throw the ball away.

The offense became further shorthanded this week. Offensive tackle Guerby Lambert had surgery on a torn labrum that sidelines him for the rest of spring. He’s expected back for fall camp. Jeremiyah Love appeared to suffer a right hamstring injury, making a cut during a 7-on-7 drill. Freeman had no update on the severity of the injury.

As for the defense, several players sparkled. Jason Onye, returning to the lineup after sitting out 2024 with personal issues, sparkled at defensive tackle, as did Louisville transfer Jared Dawson.  Jaylen Sneed, “having his best spring” since coming to Notre Dame, has not lost any speed, making a big tackle behind the line of scrimmage.   Safeties Tae Johnson and Kennedy Urlacher also came up and made big plays at the line of scrimmage in the run game.

“I love what I saw,” said Freeman afterwards. “I’m really pleased with the offense. Defensively, we probably have more guys practicing that have played. For those guys, it’s continuing to learn the different details that (new defensive coordinator) Coach Ash is emphasizing.”

Fans can see the Irish for themselves next Saturday at Notre Dame Stadium. Kickoff for the Blue-Gold Game is set for 2 p.m. The game will also be streamed live on Peacock.