Notre Dame stands on the brink of history, just one victory away from clinching its first national championship in 36 years. As the Fighting Irish prepare to face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes on Monday night in Atlanta, this matchup marks a significant moment—their first appearance in a national title game since 2012. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the excitement is palpable.
Marcus Freeman: The Architect of Change
A pivotal figure in Notre Dame’s resurgence is head coach Marcus Freeman. At just 38 years old, Freeman is not only leading his team into the national spotlight but is also facing his alma mater, Ohio State. His journey to this moment has been remarkable. Since joining the Irish in 2021 as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Freeman has transformed the program into a powerhouse.
Freeman’s ascent to head coach came after a whirlwind of events. Following the departure of Brian Kelly, who left for LSU in late November 2021, Freeman was named the new head coach. The reaction to his hiring was overwhelmingly positive, with players and fans expressing their excitement. Safety Kyle Hamilton, now with the Baltimore Ravens, praised Freeman’s leadership style, saying, “Since he’s come in here, it feels like we’ve known him for years.”
The Road to the Title Game
Freeman’s coaching journey has not been without its challenges. His first game as head coach ended in disappointment, as the Irish squandered a 28-7 halftime lead against Oklahoma State in the Fiesta Bowl. The following season, 2022, brought further struggles, including a shocking loss to Marshall, marking the first time a top-10 Notre Dame team lost to an unranked, non-Power Five opponent since 1996. Despite these setbacks, Freeman’s vision for the program remained steadfast.
In 2023, the Irish faced adversity again, losing a close game to Ohio State and suffering a setback against Louisville. However, Freeman’s resilience shone through, as he continued to build a competitive team. His ability to elevate Notre Dame’s recruiting classes and successfully navigate the transfer portal has been crucial. Notable additions like quarterbacks Sam Hartman and Riley Leonard have bolstered the roster, showcasing Freeman’s knack for attracting talent.
Freeman’s Coaching Journey
Freeman’s path to becoming a head coach is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. After a successful college career at Ohio State, where he played under Jim Tressel, Freeman was drafted by the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately, a heart condition forced him to retire early, but he quickly transitioned into coaching.
In 2010, he returned to Ohio State as a graduate assistant, helping the Buckeyes achieve a 12-1 record. His coaching career took him to Kent State, Purdue, and Cincinnati, where he built a reputation for developing strong defenses. At Cincinnati, Freeman’s defense ranked among the best in the AAC, setting the stage for his eventual move to Notre Dame.
Building a Winning Culture
Freeman’s impact on Notre Dame extends beyond wins and losses. He has fostered a culture of belief and resilience within the team. Players now understand that they are not just participating in big games; they are expected to win them. This shift in mindset is crucial as the Irish prepare for their showdown with Ohio State, a team that has dominated in recent playoff appearances.
The Irish’s journey to the national title game has been marked by impressive playoff victories against formidable opponents like Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State. Freeman’s leadership has instilled a sense of purpose and unity among the players. Quarterback Riley Leonard encapsulated this sentiment after a recent win, stating, “Culture wins. We’re all thinking about the man beside us.”
The Challenge Ahead
As Notre Dame gears up for the championship game, they face a daunting challenge. The Buckeyes are an eight-point favorite and have shown their strength throughout the playoffs. The average margin of victory in recent championship games has been over 27 points, adding to the pressure on the Irish.
Injuries could also play a significant role in the outcome. Star running back Jeremiyah Love and key offensive linemen are dealing with injuries, while receiver Beaux Collins is listed as questionable. Despite these challenges, the Fighting Irish remain undeterred. They have shown resilience throughout the season, and their determination to succeed is palpable.
Freeman may not want to make this game about himself, but his influence is undeniable. He has transformed Notre Dame’s culture and elevated the program to new heights in just three short seasons. The Irish’s return to the national title game is a testament to his hard work and vision.
A Bright Future for Notre Dame
Looking ahead, the future appears bright for Notre Dame. The Irish, unaffiliated with a conference, have the potential to secure a playoff berth in the expanded 12-team format as long as they maintain a winning record. This independence allows them to retain all playoff revenue, a significant financial advantage.
Freeman’s ability to recruit top talent while upholding Notre Dame’s academic standards is commendable. With the right pieces in place, the Irish could become a perennial contender for national championships.
As the countdown to the championship game continues, one thing is clear: Notre Dame is not just playing for a title; they are playing for a legacy. The Fighting Irish are ready to seize this moment, and under Freeman’s guidance, the sky is the limit.
