The Unlikely Hero of Notre Dame’s Championship Dreams
As the Fighting Irish stand on the cusp of greatness, it’s essential to acknowledge the unsung hero who paved the way for their current success. With one game left to win, Notre Dame’s program, built on the foundation of National Championship victories, owes a debt of gratitude to the coach who made this moment possible.
A Legacy of Greatness
Knute Rockne, Frank Leahy, Ara Parseghian, and Lou Holtz are just a few names etched in the annals of Notre Dame’s storied history. Should the Irish emerge victorious over the winner of Ohio State-Texas, they’ll have the opportunity to add two more names to this illustrious list: Marcus Freeman and, surprisingly, Brian Kelly.
The Unlikely Catalyst
Brian Kelly, the duplicitous coach who abandoned his team mid-playoff run, inadvertently set the stage for Marcus Freeman’s ascendance. Without Kelly’s departure, Freeman might never have had the chance to lead the Irish to this golden moment. It’s a twist of fate that’s both ironic and poetic.
A Tale of Two Coaches
Kelly’s contributions to Notre Dame cannot be ignored, but they must be viewed through the lens of his disloyalty and lack of integrity. His decision to leave the Irish for LSU, citing a desire to compete for a National Championship, is a laughable irony. Meanwhile, Freeman’s impressive record speaks for itself: 33 wins, 9 losses, and a.786 winning percentage.
A Numbers Game
The statistics tell a compelling story:
- Kelly at Notre Dame: 113 wins, 40 losses,.739 winning percentage, 5-5 in bowl games
- Freeman at Notre Dame: 33 wins, 9 losses,.786 winning percentage, 5-1 in bowl games (and counting)
Gratitude Over Anger
Instead of harboring resentment towards Kelly, Notre Dame fans should be eternally grateful for his departure. His decision to leave opened the door for Freeman’s leadership, and the Irish are reaping the benefits. As the team stands on the brink of greatness, it’s essential to acknowledge the unlikely hero who made it all possible.
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