The Notre Dame Fighting Irish achieved a significant milestone on January 9, 2025, winning against the Penn State Nittany Lions 27-24 at the Orange Bowl, earning them a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. This thrilling victory not only showcased the resilience of the Irish but also set the stage for comparisons between Notre Dame's current head coach, Marcus Freeman, and his predecessor, Brian Kelly.
Freeman, now in his third year, has quickly become a symbol of hope and success for the Irish. This win marks Freeman's third College Football Playoff victory, all achieved after just over two seasons, something his predecessor struggled to achieve during his lengthy tenure at Notre Dame. Brian Kelly, who now coaches at LSU, spent 12 years with the Fighting Irish, compiling a record of 113-40 yet only made it to one national championship game, where the team faced Alabama.
Upon leaving Notre Dame for the SEC's LSU, Kelly cited the need for "an environment where I have the resources to win a national championship." His decision was analyzed heavily by fans and commentators, especially as Freeman led the Irish toward the championship, effectively flipping the narrative surrounding the two coaches.
The game itself was nothing short of dramatic. Penn State took the lead early, but behind strong plays and strategic calls from Freeman, the Irish managed to rally and secure the win with a last-minute field goal, stunning the Nittany Lions and sending shockwaves through the college football community.
Social media exploded following the game, with many fans using the moment to poke fun at Kelly. Tweets humorously commented on Kelly's decision to leave Notre Dame, considering the circumstances—especially as he currently has no College Football Playoff appearances at LSU, with his team finishing the season with just nine wins before the Texas Bowl.
Barstool Sports founder, Dave Portnoy, among many others, mocked Kelly's statements about needing more resources to contend for titles, especially after seeing Freeman accomplish what many thought was unattainable for Notre Dame. "With him, Notre Dame wouldn't be here," quipped one user, highlighting the irony of Kelly's departure and the success Notre Dame is now experiencing.
Critics noted, too, how Freeman quickly accomplished feats Kelly could not, including winning playoff games against higher-ranked teams—four more than Kelly managed during his Notre Dame years. With each Notre Dame victory, Kelly's legacy as head coach continues to face scrutiny as the narrative shifts dramatically against him.
Freeman has not only brought renewed enthusiasm to the program but has also demonstrated his capability to thrive under pressure. His tactical decisions and ability to inspire players were evident as the Fighting Irish made key adjustments during the game, pulling off remarkable plays under challenging circumstances.
Looking forward, the stage is set for the Irish as they prepare to face either the Texas Longhorns or Ohio State Buckeyes for the championship on January 20, 2025. The importance of this game cannot be understated, particularly as it could solidify Freeman's legacy as Notre Dame's new leader, contrasting sharply with Kelly's struggles at LSU.
This transition from Kelly to Freeman has become one of college football's more compelling storylines. It raises questions about Kelly's decisions and whether he made the right move. While he sought greener pastures, it appears Freeman has embraced the challenges of Notre Dame, leading the team to heights not seen since the 1980s.
Whether or not Notre Dame secures the national championship this year, the narrative will only deepen the discussion around the choices made by both Freeman and Kelly. If Freeman can lead the Irish to victory, it will affirm his place as one of the rising stars of college football, and simultaneously, it will cast Brian Kelly's decisions—and the criticisms he faces—in stark relief.
Fans are eager to see how the remaining championship matches play out, but for now, Freeman's Irish have captured the hearts of fans, showing what it truly means to believe and fight until the final whistle.