Urban Meyer sends clear message about Marcus Freeman to Michigan rumors

Jeff Hauser

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Urban Meyer sends clear message about Marcus Freeman to Michigan rumors image

Urban Meyer didn't shy away from expressing his real feelings when asked about the possibility of Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman becoming a candidate for the Michigan job.

Michigan is searching for a new head coach after firing Sherrone Moore, triggering a wave of speculation that has linked several Power Four coaches and NFL assistants to the opening.

During the latest episode of The Triple Option podcast, Meyer addressed one rumor he had recently heard. Freeman leaving Notre Dame for Ann Arbor, which was quickly dismissed. 

“I don’t have much inside scoop on this,” Meyer said. “But someone said Marcus Freeman. What are you... Out of your mind? … When you hear that stuff, that’s an agent out there, throwing his name out. I can promise you, you’re going to hear the words ‘extension’ and ‘a raise.’”

Meyer’s comments reflected the long-standing rivalry and tension between Michigan and Notre Dame. Even though the programs no longer meet annually. A sitting head coach moving directly from South Bend to Ann Arbor would be unprecedented, particularly given Freeman’s success with the Irish.

Freeman has led Notre Dame to consecutive strong seasons and remains widely viewed as the program’s future. The Irish were in contention for a College Football Playoff spot again this year before being controversially left out on Selection Sunday in favor of Alabama and Miami.

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Last year, the program celebrated a spot in the national championship game. A run of consistency for Freeman to hang his hat on. 

Michigan’s search is reportedly expected to focus on six to eight high-profile candidates with Freeman not in the fold. Wolverines athletic director Warde Manuel faces pressure to deliver a new coach following Moore’s dismissal and a series of off-field issues surrounding the program.

For now, there has been little indication Freeman is considering a move, especially to a historic rival. 

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Senior Editor