Marcus Freeman won’t be coaching in the College Football Playoff National Championship this year - not the outcome anyone in South Bend was hoping for - but he’ll still be on the big stage Monday night in Miami. The Notre Dame head coach is set to join ESPN’s College GameDay as a guest analyst, offering his perspective on the title matchup from the broadcast desk instead of the sideline.
Freeman’s appearance isn’t just a one-off cameo. He’s no stranger to the GameDay set, and it’s clear that ESPN values his insight.
You don’t get that kind of invite unless you’ve earned respect across the college football landscape. Freeman has done just that - not only as a rising head coach, but as someone who brings thoughtful, informed analysis whenever he’s behind a microphone.
And here’s what makes this particular appearance even more intriguing: Freeman knows both teams in the championship game firsthand. Notre Dame faced Miami earlier this season, and the Irish also handed Indiana one of its only two losses over the past two years.
That kind of familiarity adds a layer of depth to his commentary that few others can provide. He’s not speaking in hypotheticals - he’s seen these teams up close, game-planned against them, and knows what it takes to compete at that level.
Freeman met with the media yesterday for over 45 minutes, and while the Irish may not be playing for a title this year, his presence on GameDay keeps Notre Dame in the national conversation. It’s a reminder of the program’s relevance and Freeman’s growing stature in the sport. And you can bet Irish fans will be tuning in, eager to hear what their head coach has to say about the biggest game of the year - and maybe looking ahead to the day when he’s not behind a desk, but back on the sideline for this very stage.