Notre Dame Football: Freeman Using CFP Snub to Fuel Team Spring football practices are set to begin later this week at Notre Dame, as the Irish continue their pursuit of a College Football Playoff berth following their 2025 snub. Coach Marcus Freeman addressed how the team is channeling the disappointment of missing the playoff into motivation for the upcoming season. In an interview with WSBT, Freeman reflected on the emotional weight of the decision, emphasizing the importance of accountability. “You lose it when you blame somebody else for the situation you have,” he said. “It’s so easy to blame the CFP committee or other external factors, but when we own it and recognize that we left doubt—because we didn’t make the most of the opportunity—we can use that as fuel.” He stressed that the team must carry this mindset into daily challenges, ensuring they leave no doubt about their preparation. Freeman’s comments highlight a broader focus on self-reflection and resilience. “You can use it in motivation, you can use it in terms of everyday struggles,” he explained. The coach acknowledged the human tendency to seek external blame but urged his players to take responsibility for their performance. This approach aims to transform the setback into a driving force for improvement. The first spring practice is scheduled for Friday morning, marking the start of a critical training period. As the team prepares for the 2026 season, Freeman’s emphasis on accountability and growth underscores the program’s commitment to overcoming past shortcomings and competing at the highest level.#notre_dame #2026_season #marcus_freeman #cfp_committee #spring_practices
