It seems like Notre Dame football is at a major crossroads, with significant changes happening after an impressive 14-2 season. Despite the success, it's clear that the program's staff turnover is creating some big challenges for head coach Marcus Freeman. But it also looks like Freeman is working diligently to navigate these changes by bringing in some strong new hires.
Chris Ash replaces Al Golden
The decision to replace Al Golden with Chris Ash seems strategic, especially considering Ash's background with defensive backs and his leadership beside Luke Fickell. Golden's style was clearly popular, so it'll be interesting to see if Ash’s fiery approach can maintain that same level of success. His expertise should complement the strong defensive talent already present, but the transition could still have its bumps.
Ja’Juan Seider is a big get
With the talented trio of Jerimiyah Love, Jadarian Price, and Aneyas Williams at running back, having someone with Seider’s track record will certainly keep that position as a strength. His experience with developing 1,000-yard rushers at Penn State is a major win for the Irish.
A new GM (Mike Martin)
The search for a new General Manager is definitely an intriguing one. The evolving nature of college football’s rules around recruiting, the transfer portal, and NIL demands a savvy, experienced leader. Mike Martin seems like an excellent choice to help navigate this new era, and building out a robust scouting department could help the Irish gain an edge on the competition, especially with such a complex landscape.
Building for Long-Term Success
All in all, Marcus Freeman is making moves to stay ahead of the curve, and while there are inevitable challenges, these hires could help position Notre Dame for continued success. It's exciting to see how these changes will unfold and if they'll pay off in the long run. What do you think of these moves? Does the future of Notre Dame football look bright to you?
Ziggy's top 8 picks for possible B&G commits
1] Spencer Boyd DB- FL (Boyd tops my list from everything I've read on him, if he has a good time I think he commits)
2] C.J.Fiedorowicz TE - IL (some ppl think he wants to get the process over in the spring, 3rd visit to ND, if he feels like it's the place -- commit!!!)
3] Corey Cooper WR - IL (said in multiple interviews he thought about committing if he made it to JR day, so if he's blown away I say commit)
4] Nate Montana QB- CA (if he feels like ND is the place for him then I could see him pulling the trigger, he has to like getting attention from his dad's alma mater)
5] Matt James OL - OH (IF he visits, and gets along with the other guys then I could see him committing)
6] Cody Riggs CB - FL (former ND WR - Bobby Brown's nephew, high on academics, not likely that he commits, but if he's blown away then it could happen)
7] Khairi Fortt LB - CT (1st time visitor, is high on academics & spoke highly of ND, commit not likely, but could happen if he's blown away)
8] Matt Rotheram OL - OH (IF he gets offered, I could see him pulling the trigger, really likes ND, but I'm not sure how high ND is on him right now, so we'll see)