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?
Before you shun it completely hear me out. There is a chance this 2025 Oline could be special, the floor is EXTREMELY high. Here is what we are working with:
Locks to start:
Schrauth - He will take one of the guard slots, NFL caliber guard (not Nelson level, but he will have a long career)
Jagusah - He will be penciled in at LT, however, I think the best lineup would have him moving to a Guard spot, which he excelled at during the PSU game
Lock to start if return to full strength:
Craig - He is an amazing center (I believe mid-round NFL draft pick), but his injury is worse than any of the others, if he can return to his prior form.
Tackles competing for a spot:
Wagner - I think he could have the biggest off-season. During his recruitment, most thought he needed time to develop his body, he is still small and this is his first year after putting on so much weight. If he continues to develop at the same pace, he could be the best of the bunch
Lambert - 5* talent with a year under his belt, his potential is off the charts
Black - Another 5* talent that was considered a top 10 player overall by at least one service
Guards competing for a spot (potential transfers here):
Spindler - We know what we have with him, he isnt elite, but he is solid when healthy and has plenty of experience
Coogan - Plenty of experience but probably the biggest transfer threat remaining among the contributors
Knapp - He is better suited inside, but he is only a true sophomore, he could easily go from Freshman All American to redshirting in 2025
Absher - Definitely a lot of potential with him and many are still high on him, he will definitely want an opportunity
The floor for this unit is a Joe Moore Award semi-finalist and could have the potential to have 5 draft picks playing along the line. The best lineup, in my opinion, only requires “speculation” on one player (that happens to be a 5* player). In my opinion, the best case scenario for the 2025 Offensive Line will be (Guards could be switched, I dont think it would matter much):
LT - Lambert
LG - Schrauth (played this position throughout the playoffs)
C - Craig (100% recovered)
RG - Jagusah (played this position during the 2nd half of PSU)
RT - Wagner
This would mean that Lambert is playing so well that you cannot leave him off the field and it will force Jagusah to move inside. Jagusah is an elite Tackle, but he can also be an elite Guard. If Lambert plays that well, it just means Lambert is that Elite. This is also hoping that Craig comes back 100%, he is our best Center when healthy, and it isnt close. What do you think, how good is this Oline going to be and what is your best lineup based on what we have on the roster currently?
Edited by NDhoosier