Notre Dame Dominates Stanford 49-7 with Leonard's Four Touchdowns
- Riley Leonard threw three touchdown passes and rushed for another score, leading Notre Dame to a decisive victory.
- Stanford initially scored first but struggled offensively after their opening drive, failing to capitalize on opportunities.
- The win strengthens Notre Dame's position for a playoff spot as they prepare for their next game against Georgia Tech.
On Saturday, October 12, 2024, in South Bend, Indiana, No. 11 Notre Dame showcased a dominant performance against Stanford, winning 49-7. Riley Leonard led the Fighting Irish with an impressive display, completing 16 of 22 passes for 229 yards, along with three touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown. The game was briefly interrupted due to lightning, but Notre Dame maintained control throughout, scoring 42 points by the end of the third quarter. Stanford initially took the lead with a touchdown from quarterback Justin Lamson, but Notre Dame quickly responded with a series of scoring drives. The Fighting Irish's defense was also notable, successfully stopping Stanford on three fourth-down attempts and forcing turnovers. This victory positions Notre Dame favorably as they aim for a strong finish to the regular season and a potential playoff spot. In contrast, Stanford struggled offensively after their initial scoring drive, marking a disappointing trend as they have only scored four touchdowns in their last three games. The upcoming challenge for Notre Dame will be a trip to Georgia Tech, where they will look to continue their momentum.