As the dust settles on the 2024 college football season, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman has a lot to be proud of, despite the heart-wrenching loss to Ohio State in the national championship game. The Fighting Irish fought valiantly, nearly pulling off a stunning comeback before ultimately falling 34-23. This season has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with challenges, triumphs, and a spirit that Freeman believes will resonate for years to come.
Reflecting on the Season
The disappointment was palpable on Freeman’s face as he addressed the media shortly after the game. Yet, amid the pain of defeat, he emphasized the importance of perspective. “There’s not many words you can say when you’ve got a group like that that’s hurting,” he shared. “I just told them I love them and I’m so proud to be a part of this season with them.” His heartfelt message highlighted the bond between the coach and his players, a bond forged through adversity.
A Season of Resilience
In many ways, Monday’s game mirrored the journey Notre Dame took throughout the season. After suffering a shocking upset to Northern Illinois in Week 2, many wrote off the Fighting Irish. But they refused to back down, rallying to win every game that followed until the championship clash. Their tenacity became a hallmark of their season, showcasing a team that never lost faith in itself.
Freeman noted, “They were selfless. I think that’s a trait that you’ll carry on for the rest of your life, to put others before yourself. That’s what they did.” This selflessness was evident as they battled through tough moments, choosing to support each other and their school. It’s a lesson that goes beyond football, one that will stick with these young men long after they leave the field.
Chasing Greatness
Even as they made their way to the College Football Playoff, few anticipated that Notre Dame would reach the title game. Yet, they proved the doubters wrong, taking down formidable opponents like Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State on their path to the championship. Each victory was a testament to their hard work and determination, and it set the stage for a thrilling finale.
The Final Game: A Heartbreaker
The championship game itself was a microcosm of their season. The Fighting Irish found themselves trailing by as many as 24 points in the second half. But instead of folding, they clawed their way back, scoring a touchdown with just under five minutes left, making it a one-possession game. Their defense, which had been a cornerstone of their success, nearly secured a crucial stop on the following drive. However, a 57-yard pass from the Buckeyes put them in field goal range, dashing hopes of a miraculous finish.
Lessons Learned
Despite the heartbreak, Freeman remains optimistic about the future. “We didn’t get the job done tonight, and we gotta figure out why. There are reasons for it,” he acknowledged. “But what they did for this school and this football program, and for people that watch college football, I think they sent a strong message about being selfless, working your tails off, and putting others before yourself.”
Freeman, now in his third season as head coach, has guided the Fighting Irish to at least nine wins each year. While the ultimate goal of a national championship remains elusive, this season feels like a pivotal moment in the program’s history. “It’s gonna be a special group that really has changed the trajectory of Notre Dame football,” he said, hinting at the bright future ahead.
Looking Ahead
As the Fighting Irish look to next season, they will carry the lessons learned from 2024 with them. “There’s high expectations,” Freeman stated. “There always is. But hopefully, more than anything, the people that come back next year understand the work that it takes to have success.” The experience of being runners-up will serve as a powerful motivator, reminding players of the grit and determination required to reach the pinnacle of college football.
With a strong foundation built on resilience and teamwork, the Fighting Irish are poised to return next season with renewed vigor. The lessons of this season will not be forgotten, and the hunger to finish the job will drive them forward. As Freeman aptly put it, “There’s a lot of work put into being runners-up. Probably more than anything, it’s that people now understand how hard it really is.”
In the world of college football, where every game is a battle, the Fighting Irish have shown that they are not just participants but contenders. The future is bright, and fans can expect to see a team that is ready to rise to the occasion once again.
