Freeman, Fighting Irish focus on opener, not CFP
After missing the College Football Playoff at the end of last season, Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman wants his players focused on winning now, and that starts with the Fighting Irish's opener on Sept. 6 against the Wisconsin Badgers at Lambeau Field.
As a player, it's easy to get caught up in the hype of the College Football Playoff, but Marcus Freeman's approach is a great reminder that the journey to success starts with one game at a time. By focusing on the opener against Wisconsin, Freeman is emphasizing the importance of being present and taking care of business in the moment. This mindset can help players stay focused and motivated, rather than getting distracted by long-term goals.
The fact that Notre Dame is coming off a season where they missed the playoff adds an extra layer of urgency to their preparation. Freeman's message is likely resonating with his players, who are eager to prove themselves and make a statement in the upcoming season. The opener against Wisconsin will be a tough test, but if the Fighting Irish can come out on top, it could be a huge confidence booster and set them up for success in the weeks to come.
As the season gets underway, it will be interesting to see how Notre Dame's focus on the present moment pays off. Will they be able to stay focused and avoid looking ahead to bigger goals, or will the pressure of living up to expectations start to mount? Players should keep an eye on how Freeman's approach impacts the team's performance, and watch for signs of whether this mindset shift will be enough to propel the Fighting Irish back into playoff contention.
Originally reported by espn.com. PlayerNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.