What's happened
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman responded to the team's exclusion from the college football playoff, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and learning from the experience. He also addressed NFL coaching rumors, reaffirming his commitment to Notre Dame amid ongoing speculation.
What's behind the headline?
Freeman's comments reflect a focus on resilience and accountability, emphasizing that the team must leave no doubt in future seasons. His acknowledgment of the selection process's flaws indicates ongoing dissatisfaction with the current playoff structure, which he believes needs reform. The decision to skip bowl games underscores a strategic shift towards long-term development. The NFL coaching rumors highlight Freeman's rising profile, but his firm commitment to Notre Dame suggests he prioritizes building the program. This story underscores the tension between tradition and reform in college football, with Freeman positioning himself as a leader committed to growth despite setbacks.
What the papers say
AP News reports Freeman's measured response to Notre Dame's playoff exclusion, highlighting his focus on moving forward and learning from disappointment. The article also covers Freeman's stance on NFL coaching rumors, emphasizing his dedication to Notre Dame. The coverage contrasts Freeman's pragmatic approach with broader debates about playoff expansion and the future of college football, illustrating the ongoing tension between tradition and reform in the sport.
How we got here
Notre Dame believed they would qualify for the 12-team college football playoff after finishing the season ranked No. 10. Despite winning 10 straight games, the committee ranked them No. 11, leaving them out of the postseason. Athletic director Pete Bevacqua suggested expanding the field to 16 teams, but the current format remains unchanged. Freeman's team chose not to participate in a bowl game, focusing instead on future improvement.
Go deeper
- What reforms does Freeman want for the college football playoff?
- How does Freeman plan to improve Notre Dame's chances next season?
- Could Freeman leave for the NFL in the future?
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