Late to the game for elite QB target, Notre Dame still has leg up

While Notre Dame football couldn't be going better in the 2026 recruiting cycle, things are a bit slower for 2027. Things are especially slower in the 2027 class for the Fighting Irish at the quarterback position. However, while they were late getting into the action for prospects like Peyton Houston, it appears the team still has its foot in the door and could even be considered one of the front runners for his services.

In picking out who to pursue and who to offer, quarterback coach Gino Guidugli and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock were both patient and measured, evaluating possible Irish quarterbacks from all over the country during the spring evaluation period and summer camp circuit.

That approach has led Notre Dame football to send out only two quarterback offers so far: Academy's Peyton Houston and Kennesaw (Ga) North Cobb's Teddy Jarrard are the Charlie Buckets with the golden tickets. Right now, Houston could be "the guy" as he has forged a strong relationship with Guidugli.

Notre Dame QB coach forges quick relationship with 2027 QB Peyton Houston

"The relationship we've built over time is very strong," Houston recently told Mike Singer. "And Notre Dame is a great offer."

Now that they've got their foot in the door, the Irish need to finish the job for the gunslinger, the No. 78 player, the No. 8 quarterback, and the No. 6 player in Louisiana, according to the On3 industry rankings.

Because the Irish were rather late to the fight, they have some impressive opponents to try and fight off. Texas, Oklahoma, LSU, and Georgia are among those who are trying to secure his commitment. It also appears Marcus Freeman and his staff will face off against an old rival in USC for Houston.

"It means a lot, it's a blessing for sure to have Lincoln Riley to think I'm one of the top guys for him," Houston recently said about an offer from the Big Ten squad. "Just the history he has with quarterbacks, Kyler Murray, Baker [Mayfield], just to name a few that I've watched. It means a lot, and that relationship there is definitely strong too."

As a sophomore, Houston threw for 4,480 yards, 38 touchdowns, and just 3 interceptions. The sky appears to be the limit.

The fight for Peyton Houston has just begun, and the Notre Dame football team is absolutely in contention. But their late entry into the race will be something to keep a close eye on as they try to surge to the top.