Notre Dame football has made a significant move by announcing an extension for head coach Marcus Freeman. This decision has set him among the highest paid coaches across the country and has sparked various discussions within the college football community.

Notre Dame's Smart Move: Freeman's Extended Stay

College Football Playoff Prospects

With the field expanding from 4 to 12 teams, Notre Dame now finds itself in a more favorable position to make it to the College Football Playoff. After their win at USC, extending Freeman was a smart move. It's hard to predict if a second loss would have ended their playoff hopes this year, but their performance shows that if they can handle one loss and win the rest, a home game in late December awaits them. This expansion of the playoff field has opened up new opportunities for the Irish.

Notre Dame's journey in the playoff has been a topic of much discussion. Their recent victories and the potential for a deep run have added to the excitement. The team's ability to adapt and perform under Freeman's leadership is a key factor in their playoff aspirations.

Independent Status and Future

Incoming Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua's announcement of a friendly soccer match between Chelsea LC and Scotland's Celtic FC at Notre Dame Stadium on July 27 is more than just a sports event. It proves that an 11-win Notre Dame team can make it to the CFP and that they don't have to join a conference in the near future. The uncertainty surrounding this idea was put to rest with this announcement. The Irish can continue to stay independent and have a chance at a title.

This independent status gives Notre Dame the freedom to focus on their football program without the constraints of a conference. It allows them to build their own identity and compete on a national level. Freeman's leadership will play a crucial role in maintaining this independence and achieving success.

Recruiting Advantage

Knowing that their coach will be around campus for multiple seasons is a significant selling point for recruits. Many recruits look for consistency in their coaching staff, and Freeman's extended stay provides that. His leadership and vision have attracted top talent to Notre Dame, and this will continue to be a factor in their recruiting efforts.

A deep run in the CFP would further enhance Notre Dame's recruiting appeal. It would show that the program is on the rise and that players have a chance to achieve great things. Freeman's ability to develop players and lead them to success is a major asset in recruiting.

Coach Freeman's Age and Future

Freeman is one of the younger head coaches in the profession, turning 39 years old in mid-January. His impressive track record makes this extension a win-win for both parties. The new deal covers six years, and after its conclusion, Freeman will be 45 years old, with potentially 20 more years in the coaching profession.

His age and energy bring a fresh perspective to the Notre Dame program. He has shown the ability to connect with players and build a winning culture. With his continued leadership, Notre Dame can look forward to many more successful seasons.

The Timing of the Extension

It was obvious that this extension could have waited until after the conclusion of the Irish's season. However, taking a potential question off Freeman's plate and ensuring his immediate job security is a smart move. Now, he can focus solely on leading the team and preparing for upcoming games.

The distraction of job security concerns is removed, allowing Freeman to give his all to the team. This timing shows the confidence that the university has in him and his ability to lead the program forward.