Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman was ranked No. 24 in CBS Sports’ top college coaches Power Four rankings in 2025.
The world of college football is always buzzing with news about coaches, players, and programs making strides toward excellence. One recent headline that caught the attention of fans and analysts alike is the ranking of Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman at No. 24 in CBS Sports’ 2025 Power Four head coach rankings. This recognition highlights Freeman’s growing reputation and the impact he has had on the Fighting Irish program.
Who Is Marcus Freeman?
Before diving into the ranking and what it means for Notre Dame, it’s important to understand who Marcus Freeman is and how he rose to this esteemed position. Marcus Freeman is a former linebacker turned coach who made a rapid ascent through the college football coaching ranks. Known for his defensive acumen, leadership, and ability to inspire players, Freeman has become one of the most promising young head coaches in the sport.
Freeman played college football at Ohio State University, where he distinguished himself as a solid linebacker. After his playing days, he transitioned into coaching, starting as a graduate assistant and quickly making a name for himself as a defensive specialist. His coaching journey took him to several programs, including Purdue, Louisville, and finally Notre Dame, where he served as defensive coordinator before being promoted to head coach.
Freeman’s Impact at Notre Dame
When Marcus Freeman was named head coach at Notre Dame, the expectations were sky-high. Notre Dame football is a storied program with a rich history of success, tradition, and passionate fan support. Freeman faced the challenge of living up to this legacy while imprinting his own style and philosophy on the team.
Since taking over, Freeman has worked tirelessly to strengthen Notre Dame’s defense, improve recruiting efforts, and foster a culture of discipline and teamwork. His approach has resonated with players and fans alike, bringing renewed optimism to the Fighting Irish faithful.
Understanding the CBS Sports Power Four Rankings
CBS Sports’ Power Four rankings are a respected benchmark for evaluating the best head coaches in college football. These rankings consider a variety of factors, including:
- Team performance and record
- Recruiting success
- Player development
- Coaching innovation and strategy
- Leadership qualities and overall impact on the program
Being ranked in the top 25, especially in the Power Four category, signifies that a coach is viewed as one of the elite leaders in college football.
What Does No. 24 Ranking Mean for Freeman?
Marcus Freeman’s placement at No. 24 on the CBS Sports Power Four list is a significant achievement for a coach still relatively early in his head coaching career. It reflects the progress Notre Dame has made under his guidance and the respect he has garnered from his peers and analysts.
While the ranking leaves room for growth, it also serves as an acknowledgment of Freeman’s potential and the solid foundation he has built for Notre Dame’s future. This ranking places him among a competitive group of coaches leading some of the nation’s most prominent programs.
Factors Contributing to Freeman’s Ranking
Several key factors have contributed to Marcus Freeman’s recognition by CBS Sports:
1. Defensive Mastery
Freeman’s background as a defensive specialist has translated well into his head coaching role. Notre Dame’s defense under his leadership has shown marked improvement, with a focus on discipline, tackling, and strategic game planning.
2. Recruiting Success
Recruiting is the lifeblood of college football, and Freeman has made impressive strides in attracting top talent to Notre Dame. His ability to connect with recruits, sell the program’s vision, and secure commitments has strengthened the team’s roster.
3. Leadership and Culture
Freeman’s leadership style emphasizes accountability, resilience, and teamwork. Players have praised his open communication and the supportive environment he fosters, which is essential for sustained success.
4. Adaptability and Innovation
In a rapidly evolving college football landscape, Freeman has shown a willingness to adapt and innovate. Whether it’s incorporating new offensive or defensive schemes or leveraging analytics, he has demonstrated a modern approach to coaching.
The Challenges Ahead for Marcus Freeman
While the No. 24 ranking is a positive sign, Marcus Freeman faces challenges as he continues to build Notre Dame’s program:
- Consistency: Maintaining consistent high-level performance against top-tier competition is essential for climbing higher in future rankings.
- Postseason Success: Notre Dame fans and analysts expect strong bowl game performances and potential College Football Playoff appearances.
- Sustained Recruiting: Competing with powerhouse programs for elite recruits requires continuous effort and strategic planning.
- Handling Pressure: Notre Dame’s national spotlight means Freeman must manage heightened media attention and fan expectations.
Comparing Freeman to His Peers
When analyzing CBS Sports’ Power Four rankings, it’s important to see where Freeman stands relative to his peers. Coaches ranked above him often have more years of experience or recent championship success. However, many see Freeman as a rising star with the potential to break into the upper echelon soon.
Coaches such as Lincoln Riley, Kirby Smart, and Brian Kelly (Freeman’s predecessor at Notre Dame) represent benchmarks for excellence in college football. Freeman’s challenge is to continue learning and developing to join these ranks.
What Fans Can Expect Next
Notre Dame fans have plenty to be excited about under Marcus Freeman’s leadership. The ranking is a signal that the program is on the right track. With continued hard work and strategic moves, Notre Dame could return to national championship contention.
Fans should expect:
- A tough, disciplined defense
- Recruiting classes that bring in high-impact players
- Competitive games against top ACC and independent opponents
- A coach who prioritizes player development and team culture
Marcus Freeman’s ranking as No. 24 in CBS Sports’ 2025 Power Four head coach list is a testament to his hard work, talent, and promising future. As a young coach leading a historic program, Freeman is steadily carving out his legacy. The road ahead is challenging, but with the foundation he’s built, Notre Dame football fans have every reason to believe in the continued rise of their head coach.
His journey reflects the evolving landscape of college football, where new leaders emerge with fresh perspectives and a dedication to excellence. For Notre Dame, the future under Marcus Freeman looks bright and full of potential.
