Marcus Freeman Honors Lou Holtz's Legacy After His Passing

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

Marcus Freeman Honors Lou Holtz's Legacy After His Passing

Marcus Freeman is the man in charge of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football program, and he has his sights set high for the 2026 college football season. That isn’t important at this moment, as Coach Freeman and the rest of the Notre Dame family have their eyes set even higher tonight, as the Irish community mourns the passing of legendary Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz.

Holtz coached for various programs for over five decades, but his most notable stop was at Notre Dame. He turned around the struggling Irish program, going from 5-6 in his first season (1986) to finishing 12-0 and winning the national championship by his third season. The title was the 11th all-time for the Irish program, and the last. Holtz was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.

Legendary college football head coach Lou HoltzJayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Freeman, like the rest of the Notre Dame family, took notice of the passing of the legendary coach, releasing a statement following Holtz’s death.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lou Holtz,” Freeman said in his statement. “Lou and I shared a very special relationship. He welcomed me to the Notre Dame family immediately, offering me great support throughout our time together. Our relationship meant a lot to me as I admired the values he used to build the foundation of his coaching career: love, trust and commitment.

“Lou’s impact at Notre Dame goes well beyond the football field. He and his wife, Beth, are respected across campus for their generous hearts and commitment to carrying out Notre Dame’s mission of being a force for good. On behalf of the Notre Dame Football program, we send our love to Lou’s family, friends and former players, wishing you all comfort and peace during this difficult time.”

Holtz was put into hospice care in January before his passing. The college football community will continue to honor the legacy of the legendary football coach.

Related: Notre Dame Tight End Prospect Shines at NFL Combine

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos