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?
How Many Recruits Are Left?
By Brian Smith
Notre Dame now has seventeen public verbal commitments as of this morning, Jan. 7.
Tulsa, Okla., (Union) offensive lineman Matt Romine announced his intentions to attend the University of Notre Dame at the Army All-American Game. The Irish won a long recruiting battle with the in-state Sooners. Assuming no recruit is added to the Notre Dame recruiting board (do not count on that happening), the following recruits remain available:
Robert Hughes -- The Chicago tailback is now considering official visits to Michigan and Ohio State. Hughes has taken official visits Illinois and Notre Dame. Hughes is difficult to read.
Jason Peters -- The Baton Rouge native might still visit Notre Dame.
Will Blackwell -- Even insiders around the Louisiana State program feel Notre Dame has a good shot to land Blackwell.
Malcolm Smith -- Steve Smith is the older brother or Malcolm. Not surprisingly, the younger Smith is reportedly down to the Trojans and Irish.
Major Wright -- Notre Dame is considered a long shot to land Wright, but he is set for an official visit on Jan. 19. If Wright cancels the Notre Dame visit it would not be surprising. Watch out for Miami now that the Miami administration has hired Randy Shannon as head coach.
Joe McKnight -- Believe it or not, McKnight is set to visit Notre Dame on Jan. 19. Much like Wright, however, it would not be surprising if McKnight never takes the flight to South Bend.
Lastly, Notre Dame will likely make contact with recruits that were committed to other schools but changed head coaches. This is a common theme that happens across college football every year. There is no reason to believe differently in 2007.
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