Analyst makes the case for Marcus Freeman's 2024 breakout year

Notre Dame football head coach Marcus Freeman knows what’s at stake in the 2024 season. He knows that people expect the Fighting Irish to make the playoffs. And he knows there’s going to be people quite upset with him if they somehow don’t make it.

However, optimism abounds around Notre Dame. One analyst in USA Today’s John Kennedy makes the case for why 2024 could be the breakout season for Freeman.

“History is strong in terms of Notre Dame coaches in their third year at the helm. For whatever reason it just seems to be a needle-moving year that portends future success or lack thereof,” Kenedy wrote. “I feel that Freeman is poised to round into form as a head man and have year 3 success.”

Notre Dame football head coach Marcus Freeman is poised for breakout season

Experience is a big one that Kennedy pointed to as one of the reasons Freeman should improve in 2024. There have been times when people have had real doubts about his coaching acumen. Most recently was in the Ohio State game when not enough players were on the field, in back-to-back plays.

“2024 is the time for him to show that he’s clearly evolving as a head man and he’ll have a chance to do so right out of the gates in a week one mega matchup.”

Kennedy also pointed out some factors that are no-brainers. Freeman is getting more support from the higher ups. That allowed him to spend a ton of money to bring in new offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock. 

Recruiting has been very good under Freeman as well. He’s also seen as a transfer portal guru. And that’s another factor the analyst pointed to. A revamped offense that includes new wide receivers and of course, Riley Leonard at the helm. 

All of this could team up for a breakout 2024 season for Marcus Freeman and Notre Dame football. Now we sit and wait to see if he’s right.