In a landscape dominated by conference realignment and the push towards superleagues, Notre Dame remains a standout figure as one of the few schools holding firm to its Independent status. As of now, only two FBS teams can wear that badge of honor, with the Fighting Irish and UConn (in football) standing tall, while UMass prepares to return to the MAC in 2025.
There’s been plenty of chatter surrounding when Notre Dame might finally succumb to pressure and join a major conference. Yet, head coach Marcus Freeman has a different vision, expressing confidence that the university will maintain its independence for as long as possible. “It’s what this football program was built from,” Freeman told FOX’s Joel Klatt. “As long as we can, we will retain independence. I have a lot of confidence in our administration and AD Pete Bevacqua to keep us in a position to be successful. So, as long as we can keep that independence, we will.”
For Freeman, the current landscape poses no urgent need to make a shift. However, he acknowledges that should the tides change and the organization finds itself at a disadvantage due to its independent status, it may be time to reconsider. “If there ever comes a time that we are at a disadvantage because we aren’t in a conference, I’m sure he’ll make the decision,” Freeman noted. “Along with our president, to say, ‘Alright, we’re going to join one of these conferences, and position ourselves to not be negatively impacted by being Independent.'”
Freeman pointed out specific scenarios where independence could present challenges, particularly in relation to the postseason and the College Football Playoff. “If you talk about being at a disadvantage to make the postseason because you’re not in the Playoff, or if there comes a time when teams won’t schedule us because the Big Ten or the SEC are saying we’re going to play nine games and we’ll play a crossover game and who cares about Notre Dame? Well, then I think there’s going to be a point where we’re forced to join a conference,” he explained.
For now, however, Freeman maintains a solid belief that the Irish will continue their Independent journey. “But until that point happens, which it doesn’t look likely, we’re going to stay Independent as long as we can.”
Looking back to last season, Notre Dame made its mark with a strong showing in the College Football Playoff, reaching the national championship game before falling to Ohio State. Freeman’s confidence reflects a sense of determination; he’s convinced that the program can not only repeat that postseason success but also push for greater heights—all without the backing of a big-name conference.
