Notre Dame AD Pete Bevacqua opens up about Marcus Freeman’s future after getting edged out of the CFP 

The plan for Notre Dame is to keep head coach Marcus Freeman despite missing out on the College Football Playoff. Freeman led the Fighting Irish to a 10-2 record, but they were excluded from the CFP in controversial circumstances.

In his media availability on Tuesday, Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua said he's aware Freeman has suitors within and outside the college football landscape. Nonetheless, the university is committed to doing everything to keep him at the helm.

“I would never say we wouldn't match anything when it comes to Marcus,” Bevaqua said. “Everybody has eyes on Marcus. College has eyes on Marcus. NFL has eyes on Marcus. I bet Hollywood has eyes on Marcus. I wouldn't be surprised if he's in the next Leo DiCaprio movie with Martin Scorsese.

“Marcus is Marcus. All the credit to him, he deserves it. He's the absolute best coach in the country for Notre Dame, full stop. One of the greatest college coaches in the country. People forget how young he is. So I get it. And that's a compliment to him and his success and the way he represents himself.”

Freeman has just completed his fourth season in charge in South Bend, holding a 42-12 record and a national championship game appearance.

Pete Bevacqua outlines his duty to Marcus Freeman at Notre Dame

Despite his young age, Marcus Freeman has established himself as one of the most respected college football coaches in the country. Notre Dame understands how valuable he is to the program, and Pete Bevacqua outlined his duties to the coach on Tuesday.

“One of my main obligations and responsibilities to this university is to make sure Marcus wakes up every day knowing that he is supported and valued by Notre Dame,” Bevacqua said.

“And I can say with 100% certainty he feels that way, and Notre Dame is totally aligned around the importance of college football for Notre Dame. We're totally aligned on how he is the perfect coach for Notre Dame.”

The Chicago Bears reportedly expressed interest in landing Freeman last year before settling on Ben Johnson. The New York Giants are also reportedly eyeing the Notre Dame coach.