Marcus Freeman apologizes for sideline reaction to Aneyas Williams’ touchdown celebration

NOTRE DAME, Ind. -- Notre Dame walked away from East Lansing with a 27-10 win over Michigan State on Saturday night, but head coach Marcus Freeman made it clear Monday that the Fighting Irish still have plenty to learn.

One of those lessons came after running back Aneyas Williams was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct following a touchdown celebration, prompting a heated reaction from Freeman on the sideline.

On Monday, Freeman acknowledged that his own behavior was not what he wanted it to be, apologizing for his reaction and emphasizing the importance of keeping difficult coaching moments within the program.

“I always tell our program we got to keep things in the kitchen,” Freeman said, explaining that the phrase dates back to his college days working at Texas Roadhouse. “The kitchen is dirty and messy, but people can’t see inside the kitchen. You know what I mean? But like, we got to keep things in the kitchen and coach too.”

Freeman said he watched footage of his reaction on social media and did not like what he saw. While he was disappointed in Williams’ celebration, he also recognized that his own response could have been handled differently.

The head coach said he reached out to Williams afterward to reassure him of his support and make sure both could learn from the incident.

“I told him I was proud of him,” Freeman said. “He’s got a lot on his plate, man, and a lot of expectations. He puts a lot of pressure on himself. I gotta be more aware of what environment I am coming into.”

Beyond the sideline controversy, Williams is also facing increased competition for the starting running back position. Notre Dame’s latest depth chart lists Williams and Nolan James Jr. with an “OR” designation, indicating that the starting role remains open heading into Week 4.

Notre Dame could also be without starting safety Luke Talich when the Irish travel to Purdue. Freeman announced Monday that Talich is questionable for Saturday’s matchup after suffering a left wrist injury against Michigan State.

Freeman said the team is still evaluating the injury and expected to learn more about its severity Monday afternoon. Depending on the results, Talich could be available against Purdue or miss approximately a week.

And as the Irish prepare to hit the road, Freeman’s phrase of the week serves as a reminder that improvement begins within the program.

Keep it in the kitchen.