Itโs Official: Former Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman Set to Begin New Era at LSU Tigers
BATON ROUGE, La. โ In a stunning turn of events that is sending shockwaves through the college football world, itโs now official: former Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman has been named the next head coach of the LSU Tigers. The university confirmed the hire early Wednesday morning, ushering in a new era in Baton Rouge.
Freeman, 38, replaces Brian Kellyโhis predecessor at Notre Dameโwho unexpectedly stepped down following the Tigersโ 2024 season. The move marks a full-circle moment, as Freeman now takes over the same LSU program once helmed by the man who gave him his first head coaching opportunity in South Bend.
“I’m honored to join LSU and lead one of the most storied programs in college football,” Freeman said in a statement. “This is an incredible opportunity, and I’m committed to building a championship culture with relentless effort, passion, and discipline.”
Freeman brings with him a reputation for strong defensive acumen, player development, and genuine leadership. In his three seasons at Notre Dame, he compiled a 28โ10 record, including two New Yearโs Six bowl appearances. Despite falling short of the College Football Playoff, Freeman earned high praise for stabilizing the Irish post-Kelly and continuing the program’s winning tradition.
LSU athletic director Scott Woodward emphasized Freemanโs ability to connect with players and elevate a program both on and off the field.
โMarcus Freeman is the total packageโa teacher, a leader, and a competitor,โ Woodward said. โWeโre thrilled to welcome him and his family to Baton Rouge as we begin this exciting new chapter.โ
Freeman is expected to bring several members of his Notre Dame staff to LSU, although no official announcements have been made. Early reports suggest that both the offensive and defensive coordinator roles may be filled internally or with familiar faces from Freemanโs coaching past.
Fan reaction has been largely positive, with many praising the hire as bold, progressive, and forward-thinking. LSU boosters, meanwhile, are hopeful Freemanโs energy and recruiting prowess can help reclaim SEC dominance from perennial powerhouses like Alabama and Georgia.
Known for his no-nonsense approach and deep respect for the game, Freeman now faces one of the toughest tests in college football: leading a powerhouse program in the ultra-competitive SEC.
The Tigers will kick off the Freeman era this fall with a high-stakes opener against USC in Las Vegasโa marquee matchup that promises to be a tone-setter for what could be a defining season.
One thing is certain: the Tigers are roaring into a new era, and Marcus Freeman is ready to lead the charge.
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