Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman recently revealed an interesting anecdote about his preparation for the upcoming season, particularly when it comes to scouting opponents. Freeman admitted that ahead of his team’s matchup with Indiana, he “Googled” Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti to learn more about his coaching style and philosophy.
Freeman’s candid comment came during a media session where he discussed the importance of understanding the background of all opposing coaches, especially those who might not be as well-known nationally. “I like to know everything I can about the coaches we’re facing, especially those who are new to me,” Freeman explained. “In this case, I Googled Curt Cignetti. It’s important to understand how he builds his programs and what his teams are about.”
Cignetti, who took over as Indiana’s head coach in 2024, has built a reputation for turning around struggling programs. Prior to joining the Hoosiers, he enjoyed significant success at the FCS level, including a notable tenure at James Madison. Freeman, who is known for his meticulous preparation and forward-thinking approach, said that doing his homework on Cignetti allowed him to better anticipate the challenges Indiana would present.
Freeman’s remark underscores how modern coaching has evolved with the proliferation of information. While much of the game plan is focused on players, understanding coaching tendencies and philosophies plays a pivotal role in crafting a successful strategy. As Freeman and Notre Dame prepare for the clash, his methodical approach to learning about his opponents, including using simple resources like Google, highlights the evolving nature of football analysis in the digital age.