WATCH: Marcus Freeman addresses Notre Dame team for first time as head coach

The energy around Notre Dame football is palpable, and new head coach Marcus Freeman added to the excitement with a speech of his own on Friday. 

In his initial address to his team, Freeman thanked those that agreed to put him in the position and provided a powerful speech to his players as they wait to hear their postseason destination.

“The reason why I’m standing here is because of you,” Freeman said, seemingly fighting back tears.

While there will be plenty of time to dissect what the hire means for the future of one of the nation’s healthiest programs, Freeman emphasized the team needs to focus on the present to finish out the 2021 season strong. 

“I don’t care who we play,” Freeman said. “I don’t care who the opponent is. In 48 hours, we’re going to get together, and we are going to get going for this mission. We owe it to the seniors. This isn’t about the future, let’s be clear. That’s a disservice to this group… It’s about right now. It’s about finishing this season off the right way for your seniors.”