Marcus Freeman is not just a football coach

12:00 PM ET Fri., Oct. 11, 2024

Join Lou Nanni as he sits down with Dick Corbett Head Football Coach Marcus Freeman for a deeper conversation to get to know Coach Freeman as a leader, a family man, and a human.

This episode was originally released on February 13, 2024. To explore more, please visit their website.

In a candid, wide-ranging conversation from inside the heart of Notre Dame’s athletic complex, Head Coach Marcus Freeman offered a revealing look at his leadership philosophy—one rooted in service, spirituality, discipline, and unshakable humility. More than just a coach, Freeman sees himself as a mentor, educator, and spiritual companion to the 115 young men he leads.

Freeman’s holistic, individualized approach to leadership centers on meeting players where they are—athletically, emotionally, spiritually—and helping them grow toward their own vision of success. That success, he emphasizes, isn’t limited to the NFL. For some, it’s simply becoming the first in their family to earn a degree. He blends high standards with sincere accompaniment, balancing elite football with deep moral conviction.

From hiring staff who align with his values to reinstating pregame Mass at the Basilica, Freeman has grounded the football program in a culture of integrity and reflection. His own conversion to Catholicism, completed during his first year as head coach, testifies to his personal commitment to the mission of Notre Dame. Even amid the shifting terrain of college athletics—NIL, the transfer portal, and playoff expansion—Freeman expresses confidence in Notre Dame’s ability to adapt and thrive without compromising its identity.

Whether mentoring student-athletes, recruiting future Irish players, attending lacrosse games, or sitting with generals and CEOs to grow as a leader, Freeman remains guided by a single principle: “Enhance or die.” His presence, both on and off the field, embodies what it means for Notre Dame to be a force for good.

Coaching as Formation, Not Just Performance | [00:02:00 → 00:03:25]
Freeman views coaching as a form of ministry—an all-encompassing role that shapes young men in every area of life, not just football.

Tailored Leadership with Integrity | [00:03:34 → 00:04:30]
Rejecting a one-size-fits-all model, Freeman meets each athlete with attentiveness to their personal goals, struggles, and growth trajectory.

Faith as a Lived Anchor | [00:22:45 → 00:26:15]
Freeman’s decision to become Catholic and bring back pregame Mass underscores his belief that faith should be deeply integrated into team culture.

Success Beyond the Scoreboard | [00:11:00 → 00:12:45]
Freeman defines pressure not by wins, but by the responsibility to ensure his players grow as people—especially those breaking generational barriers.

Recruiting with Conviction | [00:19:00 → 00:22:00]
He recruits by showcasing the full Notre Dame experience, making character and academics central—not just athletic potential.

Leadership Under Scrutiny | [00:33:00 → 00:34:45]
In media-facing moments, Freeman values transparency and humility over spin—owning mistakes as part of leading with authenticity.

Service Leadership: “We have to serve these young people… whatever our young people need, that’s who we are.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:02:13 → 00:02:59]
Individual Growth: “You can’t cookie cut and say everybody needs to be trained like this.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:07:00 → 00:07:15]
Faith in Vulnerability: “What better time is there to go to worship than when you’re in that vulnerable state before a game?”
— Marcus Freeman [00:24:01 → 00:24:20]
Notre Dame Edge: “Notre Dame isn’t for every high school recruit—but it’s for more than realize.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:18:25 → 00:18:47]
Honest Recruiting: “Take football out of the picture—let me show you what else makes this place special.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:21:00 → 00:21:10]
Adapt and Excel: “Enhance or die. If you don’t improve, you’re going to get passed by.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:15:46 → 00:16:00]
Transparent Leadership: “Honesty trumps perception. I’d rather own a loss than try to save face.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:34:00 → 00:34:41]
Cultural Integration: “Our sports are so integrated. We support each other like a family.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:31:00 → 00:31:29]
Lived Gratitude: “What a miracle—I’m the head coach of Notre Dame.”
— Marcus Freeman [00:36:33 → 00:36:57]