It’s official: Marcus Freeman, the former head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, is set to begin a new chapter in his coaching career as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, Freeman’s homecoming to Columbus marks a dramatic shift in direction for one of the sport’s most storied programs. With roots deeply embedded in the Buckeyes’ tradition—Freeman played linebacker at Ohio State from 2004 to 2008—his return is not just a reunion, but a statement of intent. Ohio State isn’t just aiming to win; it’s aiming to redefine what winning looks like under a leader who combines grit, vision, and emotional investment in the program.
Freeman’s departure from Notre Dame was not without its complications. While many admired his resilience in stepping into the head role following Brian Kelly’s sudden exit to LSU in late 2021, Freeman’s tenure with the Irish had its share of growing pains. He showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in his recruiting efforts and the culture he fostered in the locker room. But the program struggled with consistency on the field, and key losses in critical moments put a ceiling on what many believed could be a breakthrough era. Freeman finished his time at Notre Dame with a record that hovered near the .500 mark against ranked opponents, a stat that ultimately weighed heavily on boosters and decision-makers in South Bend. Yet even as he exits, many within the program acknowledge that Freeman brought class, integrity, and a modern touch to a historic brand.
At Ohio State, Freeman inherits a different kind of pressure—one fueled by national championship expectations, annual showdowns with Michigan, and a rabid fanbase hungry for supremacy in both the Big Ten and the College Football Playoff. Following the departure of Ryan Day, who stepped down after a series of losses to Michigan and postseason struggles, the Buckeyes are turning to Freeman not just as a coach, but as a cultural reset. Day’s tenure, while productive, lacked the emotional resonance that defined the Urban Meyer era. With Freeman, the Buckeyes are banking on a leader who embodies both the program’s tradition and the changing dynamics of the modern game.
Freeman’s connection to Ohio State runs deep. A Huber Heights native and product of Wayne High School, he was a captain during his collegiate playing days and played under both Jim Tressel and Luke Fickell. After his playing career, which included stints in the NFL with the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, and Houston Texans, Freeman transitioned into coaching with stops at Kent State, Purdue, Cincinnati, and eventually Notre Dame. But Columbus has always held a special place in his heart, and that emotional tie could serve as a powerful motivator in his return.
Sources close to the Ohio State athletic department reveal that Freeman was their top target from the start, even before Day’s exit was finalized. The decision to bring in Freeman reflects a broader shift in the program’s philosophy: more emphasis on defensive identity, player development, and recruiting ties within the Midwest and South. Known as a master recruiter, Freeman has already started assembling an elite staff that includes rising stars from the NFL and elite collegiate programs. Insiders say the Buckeyes are prepared to invest more than ever before in assistant salaries and NIL infrastructure—two critical battlegrounds in the modern arms race of college football.
Early signs suggest that Freeman is wasting no time putting his stamp on the Buckeyes. Spring evaluations have already revealed a renewed intensity in the strength and conditioning program, and recruiting insiders report a spike in interest from top high school prospects who see Freeman as both relatable and fiercely competitive. While it’s too early to predict wins and losses, the culture shift is palpable. Veterans who considered transferring are now staying, citing Freeman’s authenticity and leadership. High school coaches in Ohio have praised his outreach and personal visits. And in team meetings, players describe a new tone: one that blends accountability with empowerment.
That’s not to say Freeman won’t face immense pressure. The expectations at Ohio State dwarf those he faced at Notre Dame, especially given the Buckeyes’ current roster loaded with NFL-caliber talent. Anything less than a conference title and playoff appearance in his first two seasons will be viewed by many as underachievement. Freeman will also need to navigate the high-stakes rivalry with Michigan, where recent losses have created a perception that the Wolverines have seized the psychological edge. Ending that skid isn’t just important—it’s non-negotiable. Beating Michigan is more than a goal; it’s a requirement.
Yet, if anyone is built for this challenge, it’s Marcus Freeman. His calm under pressure, ability to connect across generations, and tireless work ethic are tailor-made for the modern college football landscape. Moreover, his willingness to embrace analytics, sports science, and innovation without sacrificing discipline or structure has won him admirers across the coaching profession. Freeman is not just a player’s coach—he’s a program builder. He understands the intricacies of player development, donor relations, alumni outreach, and media narratives. And most importantly, he understands what it means to wear the scarlet and gray.
Reaction across Buckeye Nation has been overwhelmingly positive. Alumni from all generations, including former teammates and Ohio State legends, have publicly expressed their support. Social media lit up the moment the hire was announced, with hashtags like #WelcomeHomeMarcus and #FreemanEra trending nationally. Season ticket inquiries surged, and merchandise sales featuring his name and likeness saw a noticeable bump. Even longtime critics of Ohio State’s internal politics praised the hire as a bold and necessary shift toward rejuvenating the program’s soul.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame is left to regroup. The Fighting Irish are expected to begin an immediate national search for Freeman’s replacement, with names like Mike Elko, Luke Fickell, and Lance Leipold already being floated. Whoever steps in will inherit a solid foundation but face a significant challenge in matching Freeman’s recruiting momentum and player loyalty. While Freeman’s record at Notre Dame may not have met everyone’s expectations, his legacy—particularly in elevating the program’s brand and culture—will endure.
For Ohio State, the future is now. Freeman’s introductory press conference is expected to draw record attendance, and early reports indicate that he plans to address not just football goals, but broader program values including mental health, academic excellence, and community engagement. Insiders say that Freeman plans to launch a series of initiatives aimed at connecting players with leadership development programs and entrepreneurship training—part of his vision for developing well-rounded individuals, not just elite athletes.
If history is any guide, Freeman’s return to Columbus has the potential to echo the arcs of other greats who found their way back home. Just as Kirby Smart revitalized Georgia by returning with fresh perspective and relentless energy, Freeman may very well be the lightning bolt Ohio State needs to reclaim its throne. He brings not only tactical knowledge, but a lived experience of what it means to bleed Buckeye crimson.
Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but one thing is clear: Marcus Freeman isn’t returning to Ohio State to simply maintain the status quo. He’s here to elevate it. And as the Buckeyes set their sights on a new era, led by a native son with a vision as big as the Horseshoe itself, the rest of the college football world would be wise to take notice. The Marcus Freeman era at Ohio State has officially begun—and it’s coming fast, loud, and full of fire.
