Notre Dame Football introduces Marcus Freeman as head coach

Marcus Freeman was formally introduced as the new head coach of Notre Dame Football during a press conference on Monday.

University President Rev. John I Jenkins and Director of Athletics Jack Swarbrick spoke about promoting Freeman.

Brady Quinn, a former Notre Dame quarterback, hosted the press conference.

Freeman’s promotion follows Brian Kelly’s departure from the Irish last week. Kelly took on the head coach position at LSU.

The university announced Friday that Freeman will move from his role as defensive coordinator to the team’s top coaching spot. Freeman will coach the Irish during the postseason.

Jenkins said the heart of Notre Dame Football is a set of values including faith, integrity, academics, team, service and determination to compete at the highest level in college football. 

"When we undertook this search, Jack Swarbrick and I, we knew we needed a coach that not only embraced but even embodied those values," Jenkins said, “We found that coach in Marcus Freeman."

Jenkins was in Rome during last week's search for a head coach but was able to interview Freeman via video chat. 

Notre Dame’s Director of Athletics, Jack Swarbrick called Freeman the best possible candidate in America for the position.

Swarbrick said he met with seven Irish captains and they supported Freeman becoming head coach.

“I’m ready for this challenge. I am ready to lead this program to the greatest heights,” Freeman said. 

Freeman called the promotion an opportunity of a lifetime and thanked his family, who attended today’s press conference, for their love and support.

“You didn’t ask to share your dad,” Freeman said, becoming emotional as he thanked his children.

Freeman said a new defensive coordinator has not been hired yet and said one will not join the staff until after the Irish play in their upcoming bowl game. The Irish are set to play Oklahoma State in the Fiesta Bowl on January 1.

As for the future hiring of assistant coaches to help lead the Irish, Freeman said he is looking for “leaders of young men” and “relentless recruiters.”

Freeman said his ultimate goal is to win a national championship.

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