ATLANTA – Before a young Marcus Freeman revealed his college commitment ... all Wood could do was smile. “It just seemed like things had come full circle,” said Wood.

How’s it going, Marcus? “Fine,” he said ... there's some kind of mystique that's helping you guys along the way? Freeman’s smile grew wider, along with his eyes. “I said I don't believe ...

That former Buckeye and best bud is Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman. He'll lead the Irish ... nor is his wide smile whenever he hears an anecdote or statement that tickles his funny bone.

Notre Dame was going from Brian Kelly, a proven head coach with an extensive résumé and the school’s all-time leader in wins, to Marcus Freeman, who had been a defensive coordinator for only a ...