Sam Hartman, a seasoned quarterback with a notable journey from Wake Forest to Notre Dame, made a significant decision during bowl season in December by joining the list of prospects opting out of their college careers’ postseason endeavors.
Hartman’s choice to sit out of the Sun Bowl for Notre Dame was hinted at in an Instagram video he posted earlier in December, indicating his absence from the Fighting Irish’s clash against No. 19 Oregon State. Subsequently, a Notre Dame spokesperson confirmed his decision to opt out.
Throughout his tenure, Hartman proved to be a standout figure in the realm of college football. He arrived at Notre Dame as a transfer and concluded his sole season with a commendable 63.5% completion rate, amassing 2,689 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. His impressive collegiate career spanned six years, culminating in a total of 59.8% completion rate, 15,656 yards passing, 134 touchdowns, and 49 interceptions.
While participating in the Sun Bowl could have bolstered his statistical standing, potentially elevating him to the fourth position in career yardage and third in touchdown passes, Hartman opted out, thereby bypassing an opportunity to etch his name further in the college football record books.
With Hartman absent, Notre Dame will turn to Steve Angeli as their starting quarterback for the Sun Bowl. Angeli, a sophomore, is set to showcase his talents on the field, likely solidifying his role as the 2024 backup to Riley Leonard, a transfer from Duke, or potentially attracting interest from teams in the transfer portal.
Angeli gained limited experience in 2023, featuring in seven games where he completed 19 of 25 passes for 272 yards and four touchdowns, with just one interception, mostly during less competitive moments in games.
Additionally, the freshman quarterback Kenny Minchey might also see playing time in the Sun Bowl. Minchey appeared in two games during the season, completing two passing attempts for a total of 12 yards, hinting at a potential contribution in the upcoming game for Notre Dame.