The one common denominator between the Irish teams that lost to Ohio State in the past two seasons was quarterback play. It wasn't Leonard then. but it's Leonard now.

He’s been somebody who’s led by example,” the Irish QB said of his grandfather. “A lot of the lessons I’ve learned have come from him."

Riley Leonard and Will Howard are just two of the transfers poised to impact the CFP National Championship Game.

Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard (13) throws oranges to his teammates after winning the Orange Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game against Penn State, Thursday in Miami Gardens, Fla. Leonard grew up in Fairhope. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) AP

Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard’s girlfriend, Molly Walding was on cloud nine after the Fighting Irish beat Penn State 27-24 in the Orange Bowl Thursday to punch their ticket to the

There are several parallels in the Notre Dame and Ohio State matchup in the National Championship. Both teams have a third year defensive coordinator, both teams have proven first year offensive coordinators,

Riley Leonard needed a new team. Notre Dame needed a new quarterback. It was the perfect match — and a mutually beneficial partnership as Leonard led the Fighting Irish to the National Championship Game in his lone season in South Bend.