Marcus Freeman is stepping into the national spotlight once again-this time, from behind the analyst desk.
ESPN announced that the Notre Dame head coach will join College GameDay as a guest analyst for Monday night’s national championship showdown between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. It’s a high-profile addition to the network’s title game coverage, and Freeman brings more than just name recognition-he brings firsthand knowledge of both teams on the field.
Notre Dame faced Indiana in last season’s College Football Playoff, and opened this year’s campaign against Miami. That gives Freeman a unique vantage point: he's game-planned against both programs, seen their strengths up close, and knows what it takes to compete at that level. His insights should go beyond the surface-level talking points-he’s lived it, and that kind of perspective is rare among active coaches.
Freeman also knows what it feels like to be on the biggest stage in this new era of college football. Notre Dame was part of the first-ever 12-team CFP last season, giving him a front-row seat to the playoff’s expanded format and the intensity that comes with it. That experience should add real depth to his analysis, especially as the sport continues to evolve.
All of this comes at a time when Freeman’s name has been swirling in NFL coaching rumors. But he’s made it clear: his focus isn’t shifting. Earlier this week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Freeman is expected to stay at Notre Dame for the 2026 season, and the coach has publicly doubled down on that commitment.
“I’m the head coach at Notre Dame,” Freeman said, reaffirming his dedication to getting the Irish back into the playoff hunt.
So while Freeman won’t be on the sideline Monday night, he’ll still be part of the action-offering fans a rare, informed look at the title game from someone who’s been in the trenches with both teams. Expect sharp insights, a competitor’s perspective, and maybe even a glimpse into how he’s shaping the next chapter for Notre Dame.