Freeman urges Notre Dame to win now, not plan for playoff berth
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman told his team to concentrate on winning each game rather than worrying about making the College Football Playoff.
Marcus Freeman, entering his fifth year as Notre Dame’s head coach, cautioned his players against pre-emptively thinking about the College Football Playoff. He highlighted the program’s 10-2 finish last season and the subsequent snub as evidence that success must be earned game by game. The Irish are slated to open the year against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field and are projected to start the season in the AP top five.
Despite having six recent NFL draft picks and a deep roster—including quarterback C.J. Carr, running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, and a strong receiving and defensive group—Freeman stressed that the focus should remain on winning each contest. He warned that early-season losses, like those that derailed the team in prior years, could jeopardize any playoff hopes. The coach concluded that the foundation is higher this year, but the work to reach it must be done quickly.
Why it matters
The coach’s message sets the tone for Notre Dame’s season and could influence their chances of reaching the College Football Playoff.
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