Notre Dame Secures Decisive Sun Bowl Victory Despite Player Opt-Outs

Backup Quarterback Steve Angeli Shines in First Start, Leading Irish to Most Lopsided Bowl Win in School History

Notre Dame won the Sun Bowl with a 40-8 victory over Oregon State, marking the most lopsided bowl win in the school's history.
Backup quarterback Steve Angeli, making his first start, threw for 232 yards and three touchdowns.
Despite 19 opt-outs, including starting quarterback Sam Hartman, Notre Dame's young players stepped up, with wide receiver Jordan Faison named the game's MVP.
Notre Dame's defense, ranked eighth in the nation, limited Oregon State to 197 total yards and just two yards rushing.
The victory gives Notre Dame momentum heading into next season, with the expanded playoff in which they'll be expected to be a factor.