If there was any doubt that Notre Dame hired a player's coach after Brian Kelly's departure, the players' reaction to Marcus Freeman on Friday morning should put all questions to rest.
The Fighting Irish officially announced that the defensive coordinator had been promoted, marking it as the 35-year-old's first head coaching job. And the players had very strong reactions when they were told the news.
As Freeman busted through the door, the applause turned into ear-splitting cheers as the group went from one-by-one hugs to an electric mosh pit.
Sports Illustrated's Ross Dellenger reported that the team was expected to offer Freeman the job earlier in the week.