Notre Dame’s search for a new defensive coordinator has intensified following the departure of Al Golden, who left to join the Cincinnati Bengals as their defensive coordinator.
Golden’s tenure at Notre Dame was marked by significant improvements in the team’s defensive performance, including top rankings in pass-efficiency defense, points allowed per game, and forced turnovers in 2024. His exit has left a notable vacancy, prompting discussions about potential successors.
Chris Ash: A Strong Candidate
Among the names being considered for the defensive coordinator position is Chris Ash, a former defensive coordinator for the Texas Longhorns. Ash’s coaching career includes stints at several prominent programs, where he has developed a reputation for building strong defensive units. His experience in both college football and the NFL positions him as a compelling candidate for Notre Dame.
Coaching Experience and Achievements
Chris Ash began his coaching career as a defensive backs coach at the University of Wisconsin, where he played a pivotal role in developing a defense that was both aggressive and disciplined. His success at Wisconsin led to a promotion to defensive coordinator, and later, he served in the same capacity at Ohio State University. At Ohio State, Ash’s defenses were known for their versatility and effectiveness, contributing to the team’s national championship success.
In 2016, Ash became the head coach at Rutgers University, where he focused on rebuilding the program and improving its defensive capabilities. After his tenure at Rutgers, he returned to the NFL as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2020, Ash joined the University of Texas as their defensive coordinator, where he continued to implement his defensive philosophies.
Alignment with Notre Dame’s Needs
Notre Dame’s defense has shown promise but has faced challenges in maintaining consistency, especially against high-powered offenses. Chris Ash’s defensive strategies, which emphasize creating turnovers and applying pressure to the quarterback, could address these areas of concern. His experience in both college football and the NFL provides a diverse perspective that could be beneficial in adapting to various offensive schemes.
Considerations for Notre Dame
While Chris Ash’s credentials make him a strong candidate, Notre Dame will need to consider several factors in their decision-making process:
- Cultural Fit: Ensuring that Ash’s coaching style and philosophy align with Notre Dame’s values and team culture is crucial for a successful tenure.
- Recruiting Impact: Ash’s reputation and connections within the football community could influence recruiting efforts, particularly in strengthening the defensive roster.
- Adaptability: Assessing Ash’s ability to adapt his defensive schemes to the specific needs and strengths of Notre Dame’s current roster will be important.