At Wednesday's post-practice press conference, head coach Brian Kelly named senior quarterback Everett Golson the starting quarterback for the Aug. 30 opener against Rice.

Kelly praised Golson's leadership since returning to the school following his semester-long suspension last fall that prevented him from playing in 2013. In 2012, he went 10-1 as a starter for a team that reached the BCS National Championship Game while throwing 12 touchdowns, six interceptions and rushing for another six touchdowns.

"His spring practice and his leadership in the summer and camp here, he's put himself in a position to get that opportunity," Kelly said.

Kelly said sophomore quarterback Malik Zaire was not happy with the decision, but he added that he wanted to see that reaction from his young quarterback.

"I got the right answer from Malik," Kelly said. "He wasn't happy. If he gave me a hug, I'd be very disappointed."

At this point, Notre Dame is unlikely to use a two-quarterback system, Kelly said.

"We're not looking to play two quarterbacks," he said. "We've got one starter."

Golson commented after Kelly's announcement, saying, "I think it’s a heightened responsibility on my part now that everything is set for week one.”

The senior said he has not yet spoken with Zaire about the decision, but he plans to do so. He said Kelly told him he would be the starter Monday.