Marcus Freeman Directs Notre Dame to Focus on Wisconsin Over Playoff

Marcus Freeman has made it clear: the Fighting Irish’s attention is firmly fixed on their season opener against Wisconsin, not the College Football Playoff. This focus, he said, is rooted in lessons from a 2025 season that ended with a controversial playoff exclusion and a decision not to play in a bowl game. We didn’t earn the opportunity, Freeman stated, echoing a sentiment shared by players like safety Adon Shuler, who called the team’s playoff snub on us.

Freeman’s Focus on Wisconsin Over Playoff

Freeman’s insistence on prioritizing the Wisconsin game over playoff speculation reflects a broader effort to recalibrate the program’s mindset. We left it to the judges, Shuler said, referencing the final CFP rankings that excluded Notre Dame despite a 10-2 record. The Irish’s failure to secure a playoff spot sparked internal reflection, with Freeman acknowledging that the team didn’t put ourselves in a position to earn that.

The coach’s messaging aligns with a recurring theme in his first four years: starting the season strong. That’s not a great taste in anybody’s mouth, said linebacker Drayk Bowen, who noted that the team is using that disappointment as motivation. We were using that to drive us to spring and summer to get to where we want to go.

Addressing Past Challenges

The 2026 Irish enter the season with a roster brimming with experience. Returning 12 of their top 13 tacklers, the defense ranks among the nation’s best, allowing 4.62 yards per play and 17.6 points per game. Safety Adon Shuler emphasized the unit’s goal: That’s kind of the goal for the defenses—no matter where you go, there ain’t no weak points.

Offensively, quarterback CJ Carr, who set a school single-season pass efficiency record in 2025, is expected to lead the charge. However, the team faces challenges, including a void at running back after two first-round NFL draft picks departed. Junior Aneyas Williams, who averaged 8.6 yards per play in spot duty, is seen as a key contributor.

Ohio State Ranked No. 1 in Preseason US LBM Coaches Poll

Freeman also addressed the team’s early-season struggles, acknowledging that it’s not just an issue that pops up in September. It’s something that started in January with spring practice and OTA’s. To combat this, the coaching staff has implemented changes, including a new facility: Shields Family Hall.

New Facilities and Team Dynamics

The move to Shields Hall marks a significant shift for the program. Freeman emphasized the importance of the new environment. I don’t want to know about the carpet in the new building right now, he joked. I trust you. Those little things, you’ve got it.

The facility’s impact extends beyond physical upgrades. Freeman credited the return of key leaders, including captains Adon Shuler and Drayk Bowen, for fostering accountability. Having those two leading the rest is a big plus for Notre Dame, he said. The coaching staff’s stability—offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, defensive coordinator Chris Ash, and special teams coordinator Marty Biagi are all back—also provides continuity.

Despite the optimism, Freeman remains cautious. The foundation is higher, he said, but added that the team must continue to have that sense of urgency to get farther. This urgency is evident in the quarterback race, where Freeman plans to rotate Teddy Jarrard and other backups to ensure depth. It does seem like it could be rotating, he noted, stressing the importance of competition.

The Path to the Playoffs

While Freeman avoids direct playoff talk, the team’s performance this season will ultimately determine its postseason fate. Freeman insists the focus remains on the present. The onus should be on what we have, and can control, he said. We want our future to end up a certain way, and you can’t leave your future in the hands of others.

The 2026 team’s motivation is clear: to avoid repeating the heartbreak of 2025. We have the motto of leave no doubt, said linebacker Drayk Bowen. We want our future to end up a certain way, and you can’t leave your future in the hands of others. With a strong defense, an experienced quarterback, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Irish are poised to take control of their destiny—starting with Wisconsin.