**HISTORIC DOUBLE: Marcus Freeman Becomes First Notre Dame Coach to Win Both the Dodd Trophy and Bear Bryant Award in the Same Season**
In the storied history of Notre Dame football, few coaches have made as immediate and profound an impact as Marcus Freeman. In just his second full season at the helm, Freeman has achieved what no other Fighting Irish coach has ever done: winning both the Dodd Trophy and the Bear Bryant Award in the same year. This historic double not only cements Freeman’s place among the elite coaches in college football but also signals a new era of excellence for Notre Dame.
The significance of this accomplishment cannot be overstated. The Dodd Trophy, named after legendary Georgia Tech coach Bobby Dodd, honors the coach who exemplifies integrity, scholarship, and leadership on and off the field. The Bear Bryant Award, presented by the American Heart Association, recognizes the nation’s top college football coach based on performance, team success, and character. To win both in the same season speaks to Freeman’s complete embodiment of what it means to lead a premier program like Notre Dame—both in winning games and shaping young men.
Freeman’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable. Hired as Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator in 2021, he was quickly elevated to head coach following Brian Kelly’s abrupt departure to LSU. At just 36 years old, Freeman faced immense pressure stepping into one of the most scrutinized jobs in college football. Critics questioned whether his lack of head coaching experience would hinder his ability to maintain Notre Dame’s high standards. But Freeman, a former standout linebacker at Ohio State and a rising star in the coaching ranks, embraced the challenge with a rare combination of humility and confidence.
His first season had its growing pains, including a rocky start with losses to Ohio State and Marshall. Yet, even in those early struggles, Freeman’s leadership qualities shone through. His players never wavered in their belief in him, and by the end of the 2022 season, the Fighting Irish had rallied to finish strong, setting the stage for a breakout 2023 campaign.
This past season, Freeman silenced any remaining doubters. Notre Dame finished with an 11-1 regular season record, including statement wins over Clemson, USC, and archrival Michigan. The defense, Freeman’s specialty, ranked among the nation’s best, while the offense, under new coordinator Gerad Parker, displayed balance and explosiveness. More than just the wins, however, it was the way Freeman’s team played—with discipline, toughness, and a relentless competitive spirit—that caught the attention of voters for both the Dodd Trophy and Bear Bryant Award.
What sets Freeman apart is his ability to connect with his players on a personal level while demanding excellence. His recruiting prowess has been well-documented, with Notre Dame consistently landing top-10 classes. But beyond the stars and rankings, Freeman has built a culture of accountability and brotherhood. Players speak openly about how he prioritizes their development as men, not just athletes. Whether it’s community service initiatives, academic support, or life skills programs, Freeman ensures his team understands the privilege and responsibility that comes with wearing the gold helmet.
This holistic approach is why the Dodd Trophy was such a fitting honor. The award’s emphasis on scholarship and leadership aligns perfectly with Freeman’s philosophy. Notre Dame’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) remains among the highest in the FBS, and Freeman has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, even sharing his own experiences to help destigmatize the issue among athletes. In an era where college football is often criticized for prioritizing wins over integrity, Freeman stands as a counterexample—a coach who proves you can compete at the highest level without compromising values.
The Bear Bryant Award, meanwhile, validates Freeman’s on-field brilliance. His strategic acumen was on full display this season, particularly in marquee games. The upset over Clemson showcased his defensive genius, as Notre Dame stifled one of the nation’s most potent offenses. The victory over USC was a masterclass in adjustments, with the Irish overcoming an early deficit to dominate the second half. And the thrilling win against Michigan—a game that felt like a turning point for the program—highlighted Freeman’s ability to prepare his team for high-pressure moments.
Perhaps most impressively, Freeman achieved all this while navigating the ever-changing landscape of modern college football. Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, the transfer portal, and conference realignment have created unprecedented challenges for coaches. Yet Freeman has adapted seamlessly, leveraging Notre Dame’s brand to attract top talent while maintaining the program’s core identity. His transparency with players about their roles and futures has fostered trust, reducing locker-room drama and keeping the focus on winning.
The dual recognition of the Dodd Trophy and Bear Bryant Award also reflects well on Notre Dame as an institution. In an age where many elite programs prioritize football success at all costs, the Fighting Irish have remained committed to doing things “the right way.” Freeman’s awards reinforce that Notre Dame can compete for championships without sacrificing its principles—a message that resonates with alumni, recruits, and fans alike.
Looking ahead, the future has never been brighter for Notre Dame football. With Freeman at the helm, the program is poised to remain a perennial College Football Playoff contender. His historic double honors this season are just the beginning; if his trajectory continues, national championships and even more coaching accolades are well within reach.
For now, though, the Notre Dame faithful can take pride in knowing they have a leader who represents everything the university stands for. Marcus Freeman isn’t just a great football coach—he’s the embodiment of Notre Dame’s mission. And by becoming the first Fighting Irish coach to win both the Dodd Trophy and Bear Bryant Award in the same season, he has etched his name into the program’s storied legacy forever.
In the end, this historic double is more than just a personal triumph for Freeman. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when talent, character, and vision converge. Notre Dame football is in the best of hands—and the best may still be yet to come.
