It was a historic win for the Irish, defeating No. 1 Clemson at home in double overtime.
Some prospects, including those committed to Notre Dame, were in South Bend over the weekend on their own accord given recruiting visits aren’t available. Most others watched at home, some with their families huddled around their living room television.
After Notre Dame pulled out the thrilling victory, Irish Illustrated connected with many recruits and commits for their reactions to Notre Dame’s big-statement win.
2021 tight end commit Cane Berrong
“It was awesome. We live right in the middle of the Clemson area so I’ve had to listen to it all week, about how they were going to beat us. I’m so happy for the guys. They played their hearts out.
“I can’t wait to get there to keep building this program…I can’t wait to be a part of the blood, and sweat it takes to put on that gold helmet on Saturdays in the fall.”
2022 offensive line recruit Carson Hinzman
“Yeah, it was an awesome game to watch with the two big heavyweights trading blows. I wish they could play two more times this year because, man, it was just one of those games that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Huge win though, lot of respect going to Notre Dame for that!!”
2021 cornerback commit Chance Tucker
“Not many people thought Notre Dame was gonna come out on top. But in Coach (Brian) Kelly’s pre-game interview, he said they wanted to be physical with Clemson, and Notre Dame delivered. Especially the D-line in OT, when it mattered most. Also, Coach (Clark) Lea took away Clemson’s run game. Everyone contributed on offense. Ian Book showed real leadership running the offense the whole game. When they won, I ran around my house yelling.”
2022 quarterback recruit Steve Angeli
“I really thought it was a great game played by Notre Dame and Clemson. The ND offense played really good as well as Ian Book. I really liked what I saw on the offensive side of the ball for ND. I thought the ND team as a whole played really tough and wanted to be in that situation to go make plays.”
2021 tight end commit Mitchell Evans…
“Incredible. Honestly one of the best games I’ve ever watched on TV.”
2022 linebacker recruit Langston Patterson
“Man, the culture there is something else. The fan base is really something crazy, and they have some very elite players playing for them right now, and coach (Clark) Lea has something special going on right now, and has a great defense as they held a Heisman contender to, like, 28 yards. And I love the whole campus. It was super nice.”
2022 linebacker commit Nolan Ziegler
“I think it was an awesome win for us and I am very proud of how they kept fighting throughout the game all the way to the end. It shows what our team is made of offensively and defensively. The defensive coaches did a great job from the scouting, the game plan, and the execution. We held them to 34 yards rushing which is a championship-winning defense. Now, like coach Kelly said, we just have to focus on Boston College next week and keep improving.”
2022 linebacker recruit Sebastian Cheeks
“Those guys absolutely fought to the end! Watching coach (Clark) Lea in that box was something special. The defense fought to the wire after a shaky second half. Ian Book proved tonight that he is a first-round talent. I mean this was truly a statement game for them, such a great win!”
On how his junior year is coming along without a season: “Honestly great. I’ve been continuing to train and stay on top of my work. Look to visit south bend before the year ends.”
2022 running back recruit Dallan Hayden
“That’s the type of win that attracts recruits nowadays.
“Feeling really good about the Irish…And they are in a good position to make a college football playoff spot.”
2022 tight end commit Jack Nickel
“It was super exciting to see them pull it out. I don’t even think they played the best they could have. Down here a lot of people thought Clemson was for sure going to win so I’m happy they could prove a lot of people wrong.”
2022 defensive line recruit Isaac Hamm
“I mean, it was an absolutely electric game, one of the best college football games that I’ve ever watched. I think last night the two best teams in the country played and ND came out on top, so make what you want of that. Definitely a great game to watch.”
2022 safety recruit Terrance Brooks
“I feel like Ian Book went stupid this game, and Kyren Williams did too. They started off strong and fast in the first half letting Clemson know what it is and then the rest is history.”
2021 defensive tackle commit Gabriel Rubio…
“It was a well-played game by both sides and it came down to who wanted it more. In this case, it allowed the defense to shine. Ecstatic. Man, just an absolutely baller way to win. I can’t even wait to be a part of it.”
2022 safety recruit Xavier Nwankpa
“They played good. The early turnovers helped them big time. Clemson’s a top team and Notre Dame getting that win is going to help their momentum and recruiting tremendously. Shows they are doing something special.”
2022 linebacker recruit Tevarua Tafiti
“That game was big! I always knew Notre Dame could compete with the best and they proved that last night! Their defense was lights-out. The coaching staff definitely prepared their players. I’ve been interested in Norte Dame since I was a freshman when I first met coach Polian.”
2021 offensive line commit Pat Coogan
“So happy for the guys to pull out that win! It is a monumental building block for the program. The guys played with a ton of heart and it really showed. Man, it means a great deal to me but I’m just so excited for the guys and the program. Onto Boston College.”
2022 cornerback recruit Nikai Martinez
“The game between Notre Dame and Clemson was incredible. One of the best ones I’ve seen in a while. Notre Dame really made a statement that they can hang with any team in college football. It was a close one all the way to the end. Can’t wait to see Notre Dame football get better over time.”
2022 offensive line recruit Billy Schrauth
“I thought the team looked great! It was really exciting to see a team who I am in contact with all the time take down the No. 1. It was time for the Irish to take over and I’m looking forward to seeing how they improve in the next few weeks and become an even stronger team!”
2021 linebacker recruit Kahanu Kia
“What a win! They played great in all phases, but the hustle, energy and pursuit was what stood out the most. Seeing them take control and close the deal on defense really left an impression!”
2022 linebacker recruit Devon Jackson
“It was great to watch…One of the most exciting games I’ve seen…And that also tells me that they are doing something very special with the program and they did something that not very many schools can do. And they did it.”
2021 receiver commit Lorenzo Styles Jr.
“Happy the guys could come together and get that win. Great team effort. Was a big game but the guys have to keep going and finish the season strong.”
2021 offensive tackle commit Joe Alt
“Yeah, that was the most impressive game that I’ve seen in a while. ND’s ability to fight through the changes in momentum and come out on top shows how well they are coached and how confident they are in their game. For me specifically, it excites me beyond belief and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
2022 wide receiver recruit Tyler Morris
“I think it was great to see them really prove they are a top team in the country and opened a lot of people’s eyes…They are definitely a top school for me.”
2021 linebacker commit Prince Kollie
“I think it was an incredible game and I think the players played hard and they deserved the win. It means a lot to me to see them beating top-tier teams and I can’t wait to be a part of the culture and to hopefully contribute a lot to the success they are having along with the great recruiting class the coaches are bringing in.”
