Notre Dame football head coach Marcus Freeman has been honored with the prestigious Bear Bryant Award for Coach of the Year, capping off a historic season for the Fighting Irish. This recognition comes after Freeman led his team to the National Championship game, where they narrowly lost to No. 6 Ohio State in a hard-fought contest.
In his third year as head coach, Freeman orchestrated one of the most impressive campaigns in Notre Dame’s history. The team clinched major victories in the Sugar Bowl and Orange Bowl, solidifying their place as one of the most dominant Fighting Irish squads of the century.
After a rocky start to the season, including a Week 2 loss at home to Northern Illinois, the Fighting Irish rebounded with a ten-game winning streak, steamrolling through opponents and silencing doubters. Their resilience shone brightest during the College Football Playoff, which saw them dispatch No. 8 Indiana, upset No. 2 Georgia, and edge past No. 4 Penn State in a thrilling Orange Bowl comeback.
Although they came up short in the National Championship, their spirited effort against Ohio State highlighted the transformation under Freeman’s leadership. Trailing 31-7, the Fighting Irish mounted a furious rally, closing the gap to one possession before ultimately falling 34-23.
Freeman’s ability to elevate Notre Dame to this level has not gone unnoticed, as this Bear Bryant Award marks his third Coach of the Year honor this season. With the Fighting Irish now firmly positioned as national title contenders, Freeman has set a new standard for the program and reignited hopes of capturing their first championship since 1988.
