Marcus Freeman Opens Notre Dame’s Game Week: Wisconsin ‘Prepared for Battle’ at Lambeau

Marcus Freeman opened Notre Dame’s game week by calling Wisconsin “prepared for battle” and framing the Shamrock Series opener at Lambeau Field as a real test right away. Freeman said Luke Fickell’s teams are “going to be tough, they’re going to play physical, they’re going to be aggressive, they’re going to be disciplined,” and added, “we have to be prepared for battle.” He also pointed to the challenge of facing a Week 1 opponent with roughly 30 transfers and a new-look roster.

There were also a few useful depth chart notes. Freeman said the right guard competition between Sullivan Absher and Styles Prescod is close and that “you probably might see them both,” while praising Prescod’s camp jump. He also backed Will Black at left tackle, said Ashton Craig is ready after working back from his ACL, and noted Jayden Sanders has been “as consistent as anybody in that back end” while cross-training at corner and nickel.

Freeman said Wisconsin’s quarterback, last year’s Sun Belt Player of the Year, is “as fast and athletic as anybody” on the roster. On offense, Freeman said he wants efficiency, ball security, and no pre-snap penalties more than explosive plays. Freeman mentioned that the staff considered more than four captains after voting but stopped there, even with a cluster of players close behind. Armel Mukam drew praise for climbing to the top of the defensive tackle depth chart after nearly leaving in the portal. Freshman safety Joey O’Brien earned mention for forcing his way onto the depth chart through “intentional work” and extra time with the coaches.