The excitement is palpable as we gear up for the 2025 National Championship game on Monday evening in Atlanta, featuring two powerhouse programs: Ohio State and Notre Dame. For the Buckeyes, this marks a triumphant return to the title game after a four-year hiatus. Meanwhile, the Fighting Irish are on a mission to reclaim glory, having last appeared in this prestigious matchup in 2012.
Marcus Freeman’s Journey to the Championship
At the helm of Notre Dame’s remarkable season is none other than head coach Marcus Freeman. In just his third year, Freeman has orchestrated a phenomenal 14-1 record, positioning the Irish for their first national title since 1988. His leadership has been pivotal in guiding this storied program back to the forefront of college football.
Freeman’s coaching journey is deeply rooted in his own playing history. Before stepping into the coaching realm, he showcased his talents as a linebacker at Ohio State from 2004 to 2008. His experiences on the field have undoubtedly shaped his coaching philosophy and approach.
Where did Marcus Freeman play college football?
Freeman’s college career began at Ohio State, where he played under legendary head coach Jim Tressel. Coming out of Wayne High School in Dayton, Ohio, Freeman was a highly regarded 4-star linebacker recruit, ranked as the No. 5 overall linebacker in the class of 2004. He joined a talented 2004 recruiting class that included notable players like Ted Ginn Jr., who would go on to have a successful NFL career.
During his time with the Buckeyes, Freeman was instrumental in leading the team to two BCS national title games in 2006 and 2007. Although Ohio State faced tough losses to Florida and LSU in those matchups, Freeman’s contributions on defense were significant. In his final season in 2008, Ohio State finished with a solid 10-3 record, culminating in a Fiesta Bowl appearance against Texas.
What position did Marcus Freeman play?
As a linebacker, Freeman was known for his tenacity and leadership on the field. He took a redshirt in 2005 due to an injury sustained in the season opener against Miami of Ohio, but he bounced back stronger. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he became a key player for the Buckeyes in the following seasons.
Reflecting on his journey, Freeman acknowledged the full-circle moment of facing his alma mater in the national championship. “This has nothing to do with the past and where I went to school. This is about this opportunity that lies right ahead of us,” he stated. His focus on the present speaks volumes about his growth as a coach.
Marcus Freeman’s college stats
Freeman’s college statistics showcase his impact on the field. Here’s a look at his performance during his time at Ohio State:
|
Season |
Games |
Tackles |
TFL |
Sacks |
INT |
Forced Fumbles |
|
2004 |
13 |
4 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
|
2006 |
13 |
71 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
|
2007 |
13 |
109 |
10 |
1.5 |
0 |
2 |
|
2008 |
13 |
84 |
10 |
3.5 |
0 |
0 |
While Sports Reference captures Freeman’s stats from 2006-08, his contributions in 2004 were also vital to the team’s success. Jim Tressel, Freeman’s former coach, praised him, saying, “Marcus was always a guy willing to do whatever the team needs.”
Did Marcus Freeman play in the NFL?
After his college career, Freeman was drafted in the fifth round by the Chicago Bears in 2009. However, his NFL journey was short-lived. He was waived by the Bears just days before the season began and had a brief stint on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. Later, he signed with the Houston Texans but ultimately retired from football in 2010 after a physical revealed an enlarged heart valve.
Reflecting on his retirement, Freeman expressed a profound understanding of life’s priorities. “It was hard to hear that football was being taken away, but life is much bigger than that for me,” he shared. His passion for the game remained, leading him to a coaching role shortly after his retirement.
Transitioning to coaching
Freeman’s transition into coaching was seamless, thanks in part to Jim Tressel, who hired him as a graduate assistant at Ohio State. “It’s a lot different than playing, but it’s exciting because it gives me the chance to stay close to football,” Freeman noted. His journey from player to coach has been marked by determination and a desire to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Now, as he prepares to lead Notre Dame in the national championship, Freeman stands at the pinnacle of his coaching career. Despite the challenges he faced in the NFL, he has carved out a successful path in college football, proving that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination.
As the clock ticks down to Monday night, all eyes will be on Freeman and the Fighting Irish as they aim for glory against the Buckeyes. The stakes are high, but with Freeman’s leadership, Notre Dame is ready to seize the moment.
