Notre Dame has named defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman its next head football coach. Freeman replaced longtime head coach Brian Kelly, who left for LSU earlier this week.
In a prepared statement, Freeman noted that “It is an honor to be named the head coach of Notre Dame Football… I am eternally grateful to both Father Jenkins and [athletic director] Jack Swarbrick for giving me the opportunity to lead the exceptional men who make this program what it is. Notre Dame is a very special place and I look forward to pursuing a national championship with the most outstanding student-athletes, coaches and staff in college football.”
In Freeman’s first year as defensive coordinator, the Fighting Irish gave up 18.2 points per game, finished sixth in interceptions (15), forced 23 turnovers, scored four defensive touchdowns, and sacked the quarterback 40 times.
Notre Dame’s athletic director Jack Swarbrick likes Freeman’s ability to connect with people: “Marcus’ ability to connect with people, his fit at Notre Dame and the way he coaches young men set him apart as we went through our search process…I can’t wait to see how the culture created by these remarkable student-athletes continues to grow under the tutelage of Marcus and his staff.”
Freeman played linebacker at Ohio State and was drafted in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. He was an assistant coach for Kent State and Purdue before joining Cincinnati as defensive coordinator. With the Bearcats, Freeman helped turn them into a College Football Playoff contender.
Notre Dame was able to retain offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, keeping the offense intact for Freeman and the Fighting Irish. Notre Dame has won 10 games the last five seasons and finished top 12 in offense every year.
-LaMarr Fields
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