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Newsstand: Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman reveals which position group benefited from CFP

Kyle Kellyby: Kyle Kelly07/18/25ByKyleKelly
Marcus Freeman
Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman. (Blue & Gold)

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and six players are in New York City this week as part of the program’s version of media day.

On Thursday, Freeman appeared on ESPN’s First Take, where he was asked which position group would benefit the most in 2025 following last season’s run to the national championship game. He pointed to offensive line coach Joe Rudolph’s unit.

“I think as you look at our offensive line, we probably ended up starting nine to 10 guys throughout the year,” Freeman said. “Just through injuries, through different situations. As we go to 2025, you’ve got a group that all have game experience — starting big-game experience.

“I’ve always believed that we’re going to be driven by our O-line and our D-line. I think those guys have benefited the most.”

The Irish enter the 2025 season with six offensive linemen who have started in games: redshirt junior Ashton Craig, redshirt sophomore Charles Jagusah, sophomore Anthonie Knapp, redshirt junior Billy Schrauth and redshirt junior Aamil Wagner.

Even with Jagusah expected to miss the start of the season, the unit projects to be one of Notre Dame’s best — and Freeman is buying into the storyline.

Notre Dame Posts of the Day

Rivals vice president of recruiting and transfer portal Steve Wiltfong predicted Kennesaw (Ga.) North Cobb four-star quarterback Teddy Jarrard to commit to the Irish. He’s the No. 2 signal-caller in the 2027 class. 

Former Irish linebacker Jack Kiser signed his rookie contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Under Armour has an advertisement featuring Notre Dame safety Adon Shuler. 

Notre Dame Quote of the Day

“It’s a reflection that I’m a believer in genetics.”

— Freeman on First Take on Notre Dame football’s success when recruiting the sons of former NFL players. 

Notre Dame Headlines of the Day