Live updates: Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman pre-Clemson press conference
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is set to address reporters via Zoom at noon ET on Thursday, in advance of Saturday afternoon’s game against Clemson. Here are Blue & Gold’s live updates from Freeman’s press conference as the Irish prepare for the Tigers.
**Keep refreshing this page for real-time, written updates from Freeman’s Zoom press conference.**
What Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is saying
• Regarding giving cornerbacks coach Mike Mickens the defensive passing game coordinator title, Freeman said it’s a collaborative effort but giving him that title is a way to give him ownership in studying certain aspects of the opponent, like giving defensive line coach Al Washington the run game coordinator title.
• Freeman said Christian Gray’s performance against Pittsburgh confirmed what Notre Dame already suspected: He’s really, really good.
• With a noon kickoff, Freeman said during the week he has to give his players a little more rest, because they lose that from Friday to Saturday. When they wake up Saturday morning, Freeman said, his guys have to be ready to go.
• With bringing Jayden Thomas along after a soft-tissue injury, Freeman said it’s more of a physical thing in getting to 100 percent. With Eli Raridon, it’s more of a mental thing in getting him up to speed with Notre Dame’s game plans and offensive system. “I think he’s getting it. He’s obviously got a lot more reps this week with Mitch[ell Evans] being out. I’m excited to see how he performs.”
• Freeman said complementary football is so important because when the defense is playing so well, the offense can take an extra shot downfield and afford to have a three-and-out every now and then, because they know the defense has their back.
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• Xavier Watts showed traits of being able to play the safety position two years ago when Notre Dame moved him there, Freeman said, but learning the details of the position is giving him a chance to have success. Film study and preparation have been keys to his big year.
• Freeman did not know Devyn Ford would be as much of an impact player as he’s been, and it has nothing to do with having the ball in his hands. “He is a true impact player in the special teams game,” Freeman said. It speaks to his unselfishness to contribute on special team and as a blocker.
• Freeman reiterated the goal of reaching their full potential for the Irish. “How do we find a way to raise the level we’re playing at? … I don’t believe in luck as much as I believe in cause-and-effect.”
• That will do it for Freeman’s Thursday press conference. Notre Dame kicks off at noon ET on Saturday in Clemson, S.C.
