Notre Dame's Rise: How Marcus Freeman Outshined Brian Kelly

After years of struggle and controversy, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is poised to make a significant splash in the college football landscape as they prepare for the national championship game. It marks the first title game appearance since 1988, and many attribute this momentous rise to new head coach Marcus Freeman, who is now regarded as a key catalyst for the program's transformation. In contrast, Brian Kelly, the former head coach who departed for LSU, finds himself under scrutiny as fans and analysts alike reconsider his legacy in light of Notre Dame's current success.

The Shift in Dynamics

Kelly left Notre Dame in 2021, claiming that it was challenging to compete for a national title due to institutional limitations. His departure was highlighted by a desire for a program that could better facilitate his aim for titles, leading him to LSU. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that Kelly may have underestimated the potential of the Irish under Freeman. The recent triumph against Penn State in the Orange Bowl under Freeman's leadership marks a watershed moment in the rivalry between the two coaches.

A New Era of Excellence

Freeman's approach has proven refreshing in contrast to Kelly's tenures. While Kelly often faced criticism for his inability to secure victories against top-ranked opponents, Freeman is already making strides that Kelly couldn't. In his short time, Freeman has managed to achieve more top-25 victories than Kelly did during his entire stay at Notre Dame. In fact, Freeman surpasses Kelly in terms of wins against AP top-five teams, clearly marking a new direction for the Irish football program.

Social Media Roasts and Fan Sentiment

With Freeman's success has come a wave of fan sentiment expressed on social media, which has been unforgiving towards Kelly. As Notre Dame fans celebrate their team’s national championship berth, many have taken the opportunity to remind Kelly of his departure and the consequences that came with it:

• "Brian Kelly Leaving was a Blessing for Notre Dame"
• "Funny How That Works, BK"
• "Hide Your Dasani Bottles from Brian Kelly"

These sentiments underscore a collective realization that perhaps the program is better off without the coach who left in search of better prospects.

Comparing Coaches: A Look at Their Records

Under Kelly's previous leadership, Notre Dame managed to assemble a solid program—but the cumulative record against top-tier teams was disappointing. With a mere 1-15 record against AP top-five opponents during his tenure, fans are now asking whether he was indeed the right leader for the iconic program. In stark contrast, Freeman's track record already shows promise. With three College Football Playoff victories leading up to the national championship, he has established himself as a formidable force.

The Culture Shift

Part of Freeman's success can be attributed to the culture he has fostered at Notre Dame. Players have expressed their admiration for Freeman’s leadership style, which emphasizes a collaborative and supportive environment. In comparison, many critiques have centered around Kelly’s alleged authoritarian approach and inability to connect with players on a personal level.

The arrival of Riley Leonard, a transfer quarterback, alongside strategic hires for the coaching staff, illustrates Freeman's commitment to revitalizing Notre Dame football. He has selectively used the transfer portal while retaining the core values that make Notre Dame unique.

Looking Ahead to the National Championship

As the Fighting Irish gear up to face their next opponent after a stunning win over Penn State, eyes are fixed firmly on the national championship. Should Freeman lead Notre Dame to victory, he would not only secure his legacy but also redefine the narrative surrounding the program.

Meanwhile, Kelly's future at LSU remains clouded. Although his record shows promise, with 29 wins in three seasons including a competitive performance in the SEC, the national titles he sought seem further from reach than ever. As Freeman continues to breathe new life into the program, the gap between his achievements and Kelly's previous attempts widens.

Conclusion

The transition from Kelly to Freeman represents more than just a change in personnel; it signifies a deep-rooted transformation in mindset, culture, and ambition. The narrative surrounding Notre Dame is rapidly evolving, and as they step onto the national stage, it is clear that the fight for supremacy has reached new heights under Freeman's leadership. For Kelly, watching from the sidelines, it will serve as a sobering reminder of what could have been.

As we await the ultimate showdown on January 20, it is an exciting time for Notre Dame fans. The road ahead appears bright, thanks largely to a coach who isn’t afraid to embrace challenges and seize the moment.