BREAKING: Former Rutgers Head Coach Chris Ash Hired as Notre Dame’s Next Defensive Coordinator
In a major development for Notre Dame football, the university has officially announced the hiring of former Rutgers head coach Chris Ash as the Fighting Irish’s new defensive coordinator. The move comes as part of a broader effort to strengthen the team’s defense and maintain Notre Dame’s competitive edge as they aim for a return to national prominence.
Ash, who has an extensive coaching background, including a successful tenure as a defensive coordinator at both Ohio State and Arkansas, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Most notably, he was the head coach at Rutgers from 2016 to 2019, where he helped develop a strong defensive identity despite challenges in other areas of the program. Ash’s experience in developing elite defensive units is seen as a perfect fit for a Notre Dame program eager to reassert itself as a powerhouse on both sides of the ball.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris Ash to the Notre Dame family,” said head coach Marcus Freeman. “Chris brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a championship-caliber defense. His ability to develop talent, build a strong defensive identity, and his track record of success at both the collegiate and professional levels made him the ideal candidate to lead our defensive unit moving forward.”
Ash’s coaching career has been marked by a strong defensive philosophy focused on discipline, physicality, and strategic execution. His time at Ohio State, where he served as the defensive coordinator from 2014 to 2015, was particularly notable. Under Ash, Ohio State’s defense was ranked among the best in the nation, helping the team capture a national championship in 2014. His success at Ohio State made him one of the most respected defensive minds in the country, and Notre Dame fans are hopeful that he can replicate that success with the Fighting Irish.
Ash’s hiring also marks a new chapter in Notre Dame’s defensive development. After a strong 2024 season under the previous defensive staff, the Fighting Irish are looking to further enhance their defense, especially against the high-powered offenses that dominate modern college football. Ash is expected to bring a more aggressive, attacking style to Notre Dame’s defense, which could provide a significant advantage in big matchups against top-tier opponents.
As the 2025 season approaches, the addition of Chris Ash to the coaching staff adds another layer of excitement and anticipation to an already promising Notre Dame team. Fans and analysts are eager to see how his expertise will translate on the field and how his defensive strategy will complement the Irish’s high-flying offense.
With Chris Ash leading the defense, Notre Dame is setting its sights on continuing to compete at the highest level of college football.
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