Syracuse, NY April 23, 2025 In a significant shift for both Steve Angeli and Syracuse University, the former Notre Dame quarterback has officially committed to joining the Orange. After a turbulent offseason and a transfer portal entry in midApril, Angeli has found his new home in upstate New York, where he aims to rejuvenate his college football career. His decision marks the latest chapter in a story that has captivated both the Notre Dame and Syracuse football communities.
A Season of Change: Angelis Journey at Notre Dame
Steve Angeli, a New Jersey native, arrived at Notre Dame as a highly anticipated quarterback, ready to compete for the starting role in 2023. However, despite flashes of promise, he found himself embroiled in a threeway quarterback battle with highlyrated recruits CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey during the spring of 2025. As Notre Dame set its sights on a new era under head coach Marcus Freeman, the quarterback situation became increasingly competitive. Ultimately, it was Angelis decision to leave the program and explore a new opportunity via the transfer portal.
Angelis time at Notre Dame was not without its memorable moments, particularly his heroic performance during the 2024 Orange Bowl, where his clutch play helped Notre Dame secure a victory. Despite his success in that game, the emergence of Carr and Minchey left Angelis path to the starting role uncertain. With two years of eligibility remaining, he decided a change of scenery was necessary to continue his development.
Why Syracuse?
Syracuse emerged as a natural landing spot for Angeli, offering several factors that made the Orange an appealing choice. First and foremost, Syracuse was in need of an experienced quarterback following the departure of Michael Johnson Jr. into the transfer portal. With a young quarterback room that includes redshirt sophomore Rickie Collins and a host of freshmen and redshirt freshmen, the addition of Angeli provides a veteran presence that can immediately compete for the starting role.
Another compelling reason for Angelis decision lies in his deep connection to New Jersey and the coaching staff at Syracuse. The Oranges quarterbacks coach, Nunzio Campanile, has a longstanding relationship with Angeli, having previously served as the head coach at Bergen Catholic High School, where Angeli played his high school football. This familiarity with the coaching staff will likely ease his transition and enable him to make an immediate impact.
The Syracuse Offense: A New Challenge
Syracuses offense in 2024 was prolific, throwing for 370 yards per game one of the top marks in the country. With Angelis arm strength and experience in highpressure situations, he fits seamlessly into the Oranges airraid system, which has become one of the most dynamic in the ACC. The presence of key skill players on offense and a young, but talented, offensive line provides Angeli with the necessary tools to succeed.
In addition to the onfield potential, Angelis decision to transfer to Syracuse comes at a time when the Orange program is on the rise under head coach Dino Babers. The team has steadily improved over the past few seasons and now looks poised to compete for an ACC championship in the near future. Angelis leadership and ability to perform in clutch moments will be crucial as the Orange aim to take the next step in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference.
Looking Ahead
As Angeli settles in at Syracuse, he will have the opportunity to lead an offense that is primed for success. With his experience at one of college footballs most storied programs, he brings a wealth of knowledge to a Syracuse team that has been searching for stability at the quarterback position. His ability to adapt to the system and form chemistry with his new teammates will be crucial in determining the Oranges success in 2025 and beyond.
For Syracuse fans, the arrival of Angeli is a reason for optimism. With a seasoned quarterback now in the fold, the Orange have the potential to compete at a higher level in the ACC and beyond. As for Angeli, this transfer marks a fresh starta chance to carve out a legacy of his own at Syracuse after his time at Notre Dame. It will be exciting to see how his journey unfolds as he takes on new challenges in a new conference with a team hungry for success.