Abdul Carter is showing out in the Orange Bowl against Notre Dame. The star defender had to leave Penn State’s last game due to a shoulder injury, and there were concerns he wouldn’t be able to play on Thursday.

However, even while nowhere near 100% healthy, Carter made an impact in the 1st half. The pass rusher collected 3 tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 pass breakup. Even when Carter couldn’t get to the QB, he was pushing linemen back and wreaking havoc in the backfield.

As a result, social media is on fire praising the DE. Carter was already considered by many to be a top-of-the-draft talent, but this performance could boost his stock even further.

Many also noted that Carter appeared to be held by Notre Dame linemen several times. Even while appearing to be held, Carter routinely got into the backfield.

Here’s the best of the reaction to Carter’s huge first half vs. Notre Dame:

Carter and the Penn State defense will need to continue to dominate in the 2nd half if they want to punch their ticket to the national championship game.