CJ Carr, Mike Denbrock, and the Offensive Blueprint for Notre Dame’s 2026 Title Push
The pieces are starting to fall into place in South Bend, and Notre Dame’s 2026 campaign is beginning to take shape with one clear goal: win a national championship. With the roster largely set following the close of the transfer portal, and key returners like defensive tackle Jason Onye back in the fold for a sixth year, the focus now shifts to the offense-specifically, what Mike Denbrock and redshirt sophomore quarterback CJ Carr can build together.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about fielding a good team. Notre Dame’s aiming higher. This is about constructing a championship-caliber offense-one that can go toe-to-toe with the best in the country and come out on top.
CJ Carr: The Catalyst Under Center
Carr showed flashes last season that should have Irish fans excited. His arm talent, poise, and willingness to push the ball downfield brought a new dimension to the Notre Dame passing game-something that’s been missing in recent years. And while there were encouraging signs in 2025, including strong performances against top-tier defenses like Penn State and Ohio State, the expectation in 2026 is to build on that momentum and take the next step.
Carr doesn’t need to be Superman, but he does need to be the kind of quarterback who can consistently make defenses pay for stacking the box or playing man coverage. That means more vertical shots, more one-on-one wins on the outside, and a passing attack that complements-not just supports-the ground game.
Offensive Balance: The Championship Formula
If Notre Dame is serious about contending, offensive balance won’t be optional-it’ll be essential. We’ve seen what true balance looks like from recent title teams.
Alabama in 2020 had Mac Jones slinging it to DeVonta Smith, but they also leaned heavily on Najee Harris to keep defenses honest. LSU in 2019?
Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Justin Jefferson lit up the skies, but Clyde Edwards-Helaire was a workhorse on the ground, racking up over 1,000 yards and 16 touchdowns.
That’s the blueprint. Denbrock’s offense has to be able to stretch the field vertically while also pounding the rock with authority. If Notre Dame becomes one-dimensional, especially against the elite defenses they’ll face in the postseason, the ceiling drops significantly.
What’s Returning-and What’s Missing
The Irish did lose some key contributors from last season, but the core of the offense remains intact. With Carr back under center and a solid supporting cast around him, there’s reason for optimism.
The offensive line has been retooled but returns enough experience to provide stability. Skill positions are in good shape, with playmakers ready to step into bigger roles.
And let’s not overlook the addition of kicker Micah Drescher from Illinois to the 2026 class. Special teams might not grab headlines, but in tight games with championship implications, a dependable kicker can be the difference between advancing and going home.
Jason Onye’s Return: A Boost in the Trenches
While most of the spotlight is on the offense, Onye’s return gives the defense a major boost. This is a player who brings experience, leadership, and interior disruption-traits that are critical for a defense trying to play at an elite level.
A week and a half ago, there were real concerns about depth up the middle. Now, the Irish are in a much better position to hold their own in the trenches.
Notre Dame’s defensive success has always started with strength up the middle. With Onye anchoring the line, there’s a solid foundation to build around. That matters-especially in high-stakes games where stopping the run and collapsing the pocket are non-negotiables.
The Road Ahead
The schedule is set, including a high-profile matchup with BYU in Provo. The roster is mostly finalized.
The offensive philosophy is clear. Now it’s about execution.
Notre Dame has the tools. They have the quarterback.
They have the coordinator. And they have a defense that, with Onye back, can hold its own against the nation’s best.
But the margin between contender and champion is razor-thin. If this offense can find another gear-if Carr can elevate, if the run game stays consistent, and if Denbrock dials up the right balance-then Notre Dame won’t just be in the conversation.
They’ll be in the hunt.
The Irish are loaded. Now it’s time to see if they’re ready to cash in.