Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman might take on an increased role with the team's struggling defense, as the team searches for its first win this week.

Freeman, a former Ohio State linebacker who served as Notre Dame's defensive coordinator in 2021 before being promoted to head coach, said leaders must "wear the hat that's necessary." Notre Dame, which reached the national championship game last season, has allowed a combined 68 points and 827 yards in losses to No. 4 Miami and No. 10 Texas A &M to open the season.

After Saturday's 41-40 home loss to the Aggies , Freeman said he was not considering a play-caller switch as first-year coordinator Chris Ash will continue. Freeman served as Cincinnati 's defensive coordinator before coming to Notre Dame.

"I spend a lot of time wit

See Full Page