Marcus Freeman Leads Notre Dame to Historic National Championship Appearance

Notre Dame football coach Marcus Freeman is leading the Fighting Irish into the national championship game, aiming to end a 37-year title drought since their last championship in 1988. Freeman's journey to this historic moment is particularly significant as he will become the first Black and Asian head coach to coach in the FBS national championship, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on execution rather than the pressure of ending the championship drought, urging his players to concentrate on winning each play. Notre Dame secured its spot in the championship after a victory against Penn State in the Orange Bowl. The team's success this season has built upon Freeman's previous two years of growth, achieving a record of 14-1 in 2024. As Freeman prepares for the game against Ohio State, he expresses gratitude for representing diversity in a sport where such milestones remain significant.