In one of the most stunning developments in recent college football memory, Marcus Freeman, the former head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has officially accepted the position of head football coach at Ohio State University. This announcement not only brings Freeman full circle—he was once a standout linebacker for the Buckeyes from 2004 to 2008—but also signals a new era for Ohio State football.
With a resume built on resilience, defensive excellence, and player-first leadership, Freeman now takes the reins of one of the most storied programs in college football history. The news reverberates across the sport, from South Bend to Columbus, sparking excitement, debate, and sky-high expectations.
Let’s dive into the details of this historic coaching move, what it means for the Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish, and how Freeman is poised to lead a cultural and competitive revolution in Columbus.
A Homecoming Like No Other
Marcus Freeman’s return to Columbus is nothing short of poetic. As a player under Jim Tressel, Freeman was known for his discipline, work ethic, and leadership. After a brief stint in the NFL, he found his true calling in coaching. His rise through the ranks was meteoric—from linebackers coach at Purdue and Cincinnati to defensive coordinator, and then eventually head coach at Notre Dame following Brian Kelly’s departure to LSU.
Freeman’s coaching career has always carried the DNA of Ohio State. His Big Ten roots, midwestern sensibility, and deep familiarity with the program make him an ideal fit to take over a Buckeyes team that has found itself just short of greatness in recent seasons.
Why Ohio State Chose Freeman
After Ryan Day’s departure—whether to the NFL or due to mounting pressure from fanbases and boosters—it was clear that Ohio State wanted a head coach who could command both recruiting dominance and locker room loyalty. Freeman fits both categories:
- Recruiting Edge: Even while at Notre Dame with its stricter academic standards, Freeman landed multiple top-10 classes. Now, with the resources and NIL infrastructure at Ohio State, he’s expected to elevate recruiting to another level.
- Player Development: Freeman is beloved by his players, often referred to as a “players’ coach” who balances accountability with personal care. His track record in developing NFL-caliber talent—especially on defense—has drawn admiration from across the coaching fraternity.
- Defensive Mastermind: Ohio State’s Achilles heel in recent years has been its defense in marquee games. Freeman’s pedigree as a defensive strategist gives the Buckeyes a much-needed edge in high-stakes matchups.
Notre Dame Fallout: Irish Nation Reacts
While celebrations erupt in Columbus, the mood in South Bend is understandably somber. Freeman was more than a coach—he was a symbol of continuity, integrity, and hope for the Fighting Irish. After an 11-2 campaign capped by a New Year’s Six bowl appearance last season, Freeman had Notre Dame back in national championship conversations.
His departure leaves Notre Dame at a crossroads. The university will need to act quickly to retain its current recruiting class and stabilize the locker room. Early reports suggest that OC Gerad Parker or DC Al Golden could be considered for the interim job, but a national search is likely.
There is no animosity toward Freeman in South Bend, however. The overwhelming sentiment is gratitude. “He gave everything to this university,” one booster told the South Bend Tribune. “We’ll miss him dearly, but we understand this was home for him.”
Freeman’s Vision for Ohio State
At his introductory press conference, Marcus Freeman wasted no time in outlining his vision:
“This is not just about football. It’s about creating men of character, warriors on the field, and leaders in life. I’m back home. I’m ready. Let’s get to work.”
He emphasized a renewed commitment to:
- Defense-first identity
- Elite player development across all positions
- Championship mindset—especially in rivalry games
- Strong relationships with Ohio high school coaches
Freeman also indicated he will call the defensive plays in year one while seeking an aggressive, creative offensive coordinator to complement his style.
Key Hires and Staff Moves
Early buzz suggests Freeman is targeting some bold staff additions:
- Brian Hartline to stay as offensive coordinator, though rumors of him joining Day in the NFL persist.
- Mike Elston (Notre Dame DL coach) may join Freeman in Columbus.
- Corey Dennis could remain as QB coach, ensuring continuity with current Buckeye signal callers.
- There is also talk of Freeman possibly bringing Al Washington back into the fold, which would be another Ohio State homecoming.
Expect a blend of youth and experience on the staff. Freeman knows how important loyalty is, but he also values innovation and results.
Quarterback Situation: Stability or Shake-up?
One of Freeman’s first major decisions will center around the quarterback room. Devin Brown and Lincoln Kienholz are the top returners, while incoming freshman Julian Sayin, who flipped from Alabama to Ohio State, offers elite upside.
Freeman’s staff is expected to emphasize a pro-style attack with run-pass balance and mobility under center—hallmarks of successful recent programs like Georgia and Michigan.
Buckeyes vs. Wolverines: A Rivalry Reignited
Perhaps no moment defines a new Ohio State head coach quite like The Game. The Buckeyes have lost three straight to Michigan, something that would have been unthinkable just a decade ago.
Freeman addressed this directly:
“We will not be out-toughed. We will not be out-prepared. Everything we do will be measured against that game.”
You could hear the roar of approval from Buckeye Nation even before he finished the sentence. His Ohio roots give him a unique appreciation for what this rivalry means.
The NIL and Transfer Portal Factor
In today’s college football landscape, success hinges on mastery of NIL dynamics and transfer portal agility. Freeman proved adept at both while at Notre Dame, and with Ohio State’s more robust NIL backing, he now has a full toolkit at his disposal.
Expect Freeman to use the portal to shore up the defensive line and secondary quickly. He has already begun calls to current commits and portal targets. Sources say several Notre Dame players could potentially follow him to Columbus—especially on the defensive side of the ball.
What Freeman Inherits
Freeman isn’t inheriting a rebuilding project. Ohio State went 11-2 last season, with their only losses coming to Michigan and in a tight bowl game to Texas. The talent pool is rich:
- WR Room remains elite, with stars like Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss ready to break out.
- RB Unit led by TreVeyon Henderson gives balance and explosiveness.
- Defense has future pros like JT Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, and Sonny Styles.
Freeman’s task isn’t to rebuild—it’s to elevate, particularly in big moments.
Reactions Across the Nation
The response to Freeman’s move has been electric.
- Urban Meyer, on Big Ten Network: “This is the right hire. Marcus knows what it means to wear that Block ‘O’. He’ll bring toughness and accountability.”
- Paul Finebaum, ESPN: “The Big Ten just got a lot more interesting. Marcus Freeman vs. Jim Harbaugh? Buckle up.”
- Nick Saban, via statement: “Marcus is one of the brightest young minds in our sport. Ohio State got a winner.”
Looking Ahead: 2025 Season Outlook
With the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff launching in 2025, Freeman’s Buckeyes are in perfect position to contend immediately.
Key games:
- vs. Penn State (Oct. 11)
- at Michigan (Nov. 29)
- vs. USC (Big Ten newcomer)
Freeman will have very little grace period. Expectations are sky high, and anything short of a playoff berth will be considered underwhelming. But he knows that, and he embraces it.
