It’s Official: Former Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman Set to Begin New Era at Ohio State Buckeyes
The rumors are no longer whispers—they’re reality. Marcus Freeman, the former head coach of Notre Dame, is officially taking the reins at Ohio State University, ushering in a bold new era for the Buckeyes. In a packed press conference held at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith introduced Freeman as “the leader who will guide us into the next chapter of excellence, accountability, and national dominance.”
Freeman, a former Buckeye linebacker and Ohio State alum, returned to Columbus not as a guest, but as the new face of the program. “I’ve worn this scarlet jersey. I know what it means to fight for this university,” Freeman said, visibly emotional. “Now I get to lead the team that shaped me. This is more than a job—it’s a mission.”
The decision to hire Freeman came just days after former head coach Ryan Day announced his departure for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers. Ohio State moved swiftly, recognizing Freeman’s defensive prowess, magnetic leadership, and impressive recruiting record. While Freeman’s time at Notre Dame ended without a College Football Playoff win, he consistently secured top-tier talent and was widely respected for his cultural transformation in South Bend.
Now, all eyes shift to Columbus. Freeman’s arrival signals a shift toward a more physical, disciplined style of football. In his first team meeting, sources say Freeman emphasized toughness, mental preparation, and “earning the Block O every day.” His immediate impact on recruiting has already been felt, as three five-star defensive recruits—previously crystal-balled to SEC powerhouses—flipped to Ohio State within 48 hours of the announcement.
“This is about building something that lasts,” Freeman told Buckeye Nation. “Not just one great season, but a legacy. Championships will come when the foundation is right.”
Freeman’s staff will feature a mixture of returning Buckeye assistants and fresh blood, including former LSU offensive coordinator Joe Sloan, who is expected to install a fast-tempo pro-style offense tailored to rising junior quarterback Tavien Stokes. On defense, Freeman will resume play-calling duties, anchoring a unit already loaded with NFL-bound talent like edge rusher Kamari Burns and All-American safety Zion Branch.
Ohio State fans, still glowing from the 2024 national championship, are hungry for more. Freeman’s appointment electrifies the program, promising a fusion of old-school Buckeye toughness and new-era innovation. “This isn’t a rebuild,” Freeman stated. “It’s a relaunch.”
With spring practices looming and a top-ranked recruiting class on deck, Marcus Freeman’s Ohio State era is officially underway. And if early signs are any indication, the rest of college football should brace for impact.
