In a tense Orange Bowl showdown, Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard experienced a temporary setback, leaving the game late in the first half for medical evaluation. The incident occurred after Leonard took a hit from Penn State defenders Zane Durant and Dvon J-Thomas. At the time of the injury, Notre Dame was trailing 10-3.
Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) brings down Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard (13) during the first half of the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
Penn State tight end Tyler Warren (44) advances the ball against Notre Dame's Kevin Bauman (84). (Sam Navarro/Imagn Images)
Backup quarterback Steve Angeli stepped in for Leonard, leading the Fighting Irish to a field goal as the half expired. Prior to his exit, Leonard had completed 6 of 11 passes for 63 yards and one interception.
Penn State safety Zakee Wheatley (6) sacks Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard (13). (Nathan Ray Seebeck/Imagn Images)
Angeli, a New Jersey native who played high school football at Bergen Catholic, had previously showcased his abilities in the 2023 Sun Bowl, where he threw for 232 yards and three touchdowns in a decisive victory over Oregon State.
Update: Riley Leonard returned to the game in the second half.
