In a landmark achievement for college football, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman has made history as the first Black coach to lead an FBS team into the national championship game. Although the Fighting Irish faced a tough defeat against Freeman’s former team, the Ohio State Buckeyes, his journey has garnered immense respect and admiration. Freeman’s ability to elevate the program to new heights speaks volumes about his leadership and vision.
The Road to Coaching: A Star Linebacker’s Journey
Marcus Freeman’s path to coaching was anything but conventional. A standout linebacker for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2004 to 2008, he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. However, his NFL career was short-lived, as he bounced around teams like the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans before an unexpected turn of events forced him to retire.
Facing Adversity: The End of a Playing Career
“Fifth-round pick, went to the NFL, and you know, I got cut after training camp,” Freeman reflected. “Being in Chicago was the first time that I was homesick. I grew up in Dayton, Ohio, which is around 50 minutes from Columbus, and I was never homesick until then.”
Freeman’s dreams of playing in the NFL came to a sudden halt when a medical examination with the Indianapolis Colts revealed an enlarged heart condition. This shocking discovery led him to call Ohio State coach Jim Tressel, who offered him a chance to join the coaching staff as a graduate assistant. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Freeman’s journey into the world of coaching.
Building Connections: The Importance of Networking
During a recent episode of the “Pivot” podcast, Freeman discussed how crucial it is to build relationships in the sports world. He emphasized that leveraging connections can open doors, a lesson he learned firsthand when he sought a graduate assistant position at Ohio State in 2010 after his playing career ended.
“It would have been totally different. I probably would have called Gene Smith, who was the athletic director at Ohio State,” Freeman explained. “I was already graduated, so I was a GA for Smith.”
Freeman’s insights extend beyond his personal experience; he now shares this wisdom with his players at Notre Dame, urging them to tap into the extensive network they have access to. “If we’re not utilizing it, it’s going to be for waste,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of seeking help and guidance.
From Graduate Assistant to Head Coach
Freeman’s coaching career took off quickly. After serving as a graduate assistant at Ohio State, he became the linebackers coach at Kent State (2011-2012) and then Purdue (2013-2015). His impressive work earned him a promotion to defensive coordinator at Purdue in 2016, followed by a similar role at the Cincinnati Bearcats from 2017 to 2020.
In 2021, Freeman joined the Notre Dame coaching staff as the linebackers coach under coach Brian Kelly. Later that same year, when Kelly departed for the LSU Tigers, Freeman was named head coach, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Leading Notre Dame: A New Era
As head coach of the Fighting Irish, Freeman has not only made history but has also brought a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the program. His leadership style emphasizes resilience, teamwork, and the importance of community, values that resonate deeply with both players and fans alike.
Freeman’s first season culminated in a national championship appearance, a testament to his ability to inspire and motivate his team. Despite the loss to Ohio State, the experience has set the stage for future success and growth.
The Future Looks Bright
Looking ahead, Freeman’s vision for Notre Dame is ambitious. He aims to build a program that competes at the highest level while fostering a culture of inclusivity and support. His journey from a star linebacker to a groundbreaking head coach serves as an inspiration to many aspiring coaches and players across the nation.
In a sport where tradition runs deep, Freeman’s story is a reminder that change is possible, and that leadership can take many forms. As he continues to navigate the challenges and triumphs of college football, one thing is clear: Marcus Freeman is a force to be reckoned with, and his impact on the game will be felt for years to come.
