Heading into the Orange Bowl, the Fighting Irish are finally showing signs that they can compete at the top of the sport in the modern era.

The exact mold that Notre Dame looks for in a safety at 6-foot, 5-inches and 200-pounds, Washington has yet to trim his list. Regardless, the Irish are in good position to land the nation’s No. 60 overall player. Loy is keeping a close eye on Notre Dame, but a clearer picture will emerge after a few official visits.

Notre Dame football is looking at some players in the transfer portal. Quarterback is one position where things might be covered.

Here's why Notre Dame football QB Riley Leonard decided to leave Duke and transfer to the Fighting Irish this offseason:

Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard, 22, majored in public policy at Duke with a minor in markets and management studies.

Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard has been on a hot streak in the postseason with the Fighting Irish and he has a chance to continue growing his narrative as the team prepares to take on the Penn State Nittany Lions at the Orange Bowl in the semifinals of the College Football Playoffs.

When Notre Dame went into a transfer portal at the end of last season for another quarterback, there were mixed reactions from Irish fans. While many were thrilled that Marcus Freeman was doing everything he can to put the best team he can assemble out on the field by bringing in Riley Leonard,

Notre Dame starting quarterback Riley Leonard has proven to be a difficult quarterback to prepare for as the Irish sit one game away from a national championship appearance. While Leonard doesn't always jump off the page with his arm talent,

Notre Dame football relied on defense and the legs of Riley Leonard to keep their season alive on Jan. 2. The Fighting Irish are now positioned to clinch their first national championship game appearance since the 2012 season.