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?
Columbia or South Bend?
Published August 17, 2006
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Gary Gray of Richland Northeast is the No. 3-ranked cornerback in the nation by Rivals.com. He committed to South Carolina in March but then de-committed in July.
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THE STATE
By MATT COBBS
Staff Writer
The Fighting Irish still have a fighting chance at Gary Gray.
He's one of the most sought-after cornerbacks in the country, and, initially, it appeared that he'd be staying home after finishing at Richland Northeast in December.
Gray, a Columbia native who also plays quarterback for the Cavaliers, committed to South Carolina in March but then de-committed in July, following a second visit to Notre Dame's campus in South Bend, Ind.
"I just wanted to rethink my options," said Gray, who led Richland Northeast to the 4A Di-vision II title game in 2005. "Notre Dame kept contacting me, and I really wanted to make sure (I made the right decision)."
Gray is ranked the third-best cornerback in the nation by Rivals.com. He recorded 65 tackles and four interceptions last season, along with 1,600 total yards and 11 touchdowns at quarterback.
His recruiting situation has garnered more than its share of national attention. "It's been a little bit of a distraction, but it's nothing we can't handle," Cavs coach Jay Frye said.
"As it stands right now, it's between Notre Dame and USC. In the back of his mind, he has always liked Notre Dame.
"Right now, he still favors USC, though."
Gray will make his final decision after official visits to each school next month. He'll at-tend USC's home game against Georgia on Sept. 9 and then watch Notre Dame host Michigan the following weekend.
"It's been overwhelming at times," said Gray, who has received more than 30 collegiate of-fers. "I just have to stay focused on getting back to Williams-Brice (Stadium)."
He, of course, was referring to a return trip to the 4A state championship game, which is contested in the Gamecocks' stadium. His team fell 51-9 to Byrnes in the title matchup last season.
Interestingly enough, Gray grew up as an avid fan of Florida State, more so than USC or Notre Dame. He idolized former Seminole greats such as Deion Sanders and Peter Warrick.
"(Sanders) was a great shut-down corner, and I liked (Warrick) when he made plays at re-ceiver," he said.
Like so many players, Gray's football career began not in a crowded stadium, but rather on neighborhood streets.
"My mom didn't even know I was playing," Gray said with a laugh. "I was playing all day everyday, and she just assumed I was doing something else."
Mom, of course, eventually caught on to her son's obvious abilities.
And a few others have take notice since then.
"(Gray) has started at cornerback since he was a sophomore," Frye said. "He's the best corner I've ever had in the secondary, and obviously he's a tremendous athlete."
Gray got his first action at quarterback two years ago when the Cavs' starter went down with an injury. The same scenario unfolded last year and, this time, Gray took over the role permanently.
"(Gray) is really doing a great job running our option, which we installed this year largely because of him," Frye said. "The offense we ran last year wasn't as suited to him, but he picked it up pretty well. You want your best athlete at quarterback, and he's a tremendous field general."
And so like any competent leader, Gray contemplates before making any major decision.
It'll either be Columbia or South Bend. Chickens or leprechauns. Steve Spurrier or Charlie Weis.
Gray will decide when it's time.
"Notre Dame has everything … academics, a great coach, a great history," Gray said. "(USC) is home … it's comfortable. I just have to make the right decision."
Matt Cobbs can be reached at 562-7242 or matthew.cobbs@shj.com