The question of Notre Dame's independence — meaning the Fighting Irish aren't attached to a conference — was brought into the foreground ahead of the Orange Bowl and College Football Playoff semifinal matchup between Marcus Freeman's team and James Franklin's Penn State Nittany Lions.

Penn State coach James Franklin and Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman held their final media availability Wednesday before the Orange Bowl, where they discussed key injuries and preparing for their biggest game of the season so far. Here’s what the coaches had to say as the Orange Bowl approaches.

In December 2024, Freeman’s contract was extended for four more years, with an average annual salary exceeding $9 million. This extension came as a reward for his impressive performance, leading Notre Dame to a 29-9 record over three seasons, including two bowl wins and a College Football Playoff berth.