Spring practices have officially begun for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish as they gear up for another season with hopes of securing their 12th National Championship. As part of their preparations, the Irish are undergoing changes, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The team has brought in Chris Ash as the new defensive coordinator, a crucial move for the squad’s future success. Ash will have the task of continuing to build a strong defense while making his own mark on the program.
Chris Ash takes over from Al Golden, who left his role at Notre Dame to join the NFL as the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals. Golden’s departure marks a major shift for the Irish defense, which was ranked among the best in the nation last season. Ash inherits a talented group of players, and his experience as a defensive coach will be key in maintaining and improving the team’s defensive performance.
With standout players like Bryce Young and Adon Shuler returning, Ash will have a solid foundation to work with. Young, a defensive playmaker, and Shuler, a key contributor to last season’s success, will be expected to play major roles in the upcoming season. Ash’s challenge will be to make sure that the defense stays sharp and continues to perform at a high level, despite the change in leadership.
As the Fighting Irish continue their spring practices, they are focused on fine-tuning their skills and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead in the 2025 season. These practices will help the team build chemistry and improve their overall play before the start of the season. The coaching staff will also be using this time to evaluate talent and make adjustments where necessary.
The Blue and Gold game, set for April 12, will be a key event for Notre Dame fans to watch. It will serve as a preview of the team’s progress and give fans an opportunity to see how the new defensive schemes under Chris Ash are taking shape. As the Irish continue to prepare for the season, their pursuit of another championship is well underway, and the new defensive coordinator is eager to lead them toward their goal.
