Following the departure of defensive coordinator Al Golden for the Cincinnati Bengals, Notre Dame is on the hunt for a new leader to guide its defense. Among the names being discussed, former Rutgers head coach Chris Ash has emerged as a strong candidate. But what makes Ash a compelling choice for the Fighting Irish?
Chris Ash’s Coaching Journey
Chris Ash has a rich and varied coaching background that spans both college football and the NFL. His career began at Drake in 1997, where he served as a graduate assistant. From there, he moved to Iowa State, spending two years as a graduate assistant before stepping up to become the full-time defensive backs coach from 2002 to 2005. His role expanded in 2006 when he took on the additional title of recruiting coordinator.
After a brief stint at San Diego State in 2007-08, Ash returned to Iowa State for a year before landing at Wisconsin in 2010. There, he not only coached the defensive backs but also took on the responsibilities of defensive coordinator after just one season. His impressive work at Wisconsin led him to Arkansas in 2013 as defensive coordinator, and he later joined Ohio State in 2014, where he won a national championship as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach.
Recent Coaching Experience
After a challenging tenure at Rutgers from 2016 to 2019—where he compiled an overall record of 8-32, including a dismal 3-26 in the Big Ten—Ash transitioned back to the NFL. He served as the defensive coordinator at Texas for a year before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021 as the safeties coach under Urban Meyer. In 2022, he moved to the Las Vegas Raiders as the defensive backs coach.
This blend of college and professional experience gives Ash a unique perspective on defensive strategy, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster its defensive unit.
Notre Dame’s Search for a New Defensive Coordinator
As Notre Dame searches for its next defensive coordinator, it’s clear that Ash is a candidate worth considering. According to reports, he has emerged as a leading option, but he’s not the only one in the mix. Pete Nakos from On3 notes that there isn’t a definitive top target yet in the search. With Ash having several NFL and defensive coordinator opportunities this coaching cycle, the competition is fierce.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is expected to meet with various candidates this week, indicating that the search is still very much active. So, what does this mean for the Fighting Irish?
Why Chris Ash Could Be the Right Fit
If Notre Dame decides to bring Ash on board, they would be acquiring a coach with a wealth of experience. His track record includes successful stints at major programs, where he has developed defensive schemes that can adapt to the evolving landscape of college football.
Moreover, Ash’s familiarity with high-stakes environments—having coached in both the Big Ten and the SEC—could be invaluable for a program like Notre Dame, which regularly faces tough competition. His ability to recruit effectively, as demonstrated during his time at Iowa State and Wisconsin, would also be a significant asset for the Irish.
But what about his defensive philosophy? Ash is known for his aggressive defensive schemes that emphasize speed and physicality. This approach could align well with Notre Dame’s tradition of strong defensive play. Fans and analysts alike might wonder: Could Ash bring a new edge to a defense that has faced challenges in recent seasons?
What Lies Ahead for Notre Dame?
As the search for a new defensive coordinator unfolds, one thing is clear: Notre Dame is looking for someone who can not only improve the defense but also connect with the players and the broader Notre Dame community. With Ash’s extensive experience and proven track record, he could be the right person for the job.
However, the competition is stiff. Ash is not only a candidate for Notre Dame; he has multiple opportunities on the table, which could complicate the situation. Will Notre Dame be able to secure his services, or will they need to explore other options?
The Road Ahead
In the coming days, as Freeman meets with potential candidates, the excitement surrounding Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator search will only grow. Fans are eager to see who will take the reins of the defense and how that person will shape the future of the program.
Should Notre Dame follow through with a hire, they will gain a well-traveled and experienced coach in Chris Ash. With his background, he could potentially elevate the Fighting Irish defense to new heights. As college football continues to evolve, the right defensive strategy will be crucial for Notre Dame to remain competitive.
The anticipation is palpable, and the next steps in this hiring process will be closely watched by fans, players, and analysts alike. Will Chris Ash be the one to lead the charge? Only time will tell!
