Chris Ash Returns to College Football as Notre Dame’s New Defensive Coordinator
In a move that is expected to bolster the Fighting Irish’s defense, Chris Ash has been appointed as Notre Dame’s new defensive coordinator. Ash, who previously served as the head coach at Rutgers, replaces Al Golden and will work under the guidance of head coach Marcus Freeman.
While Ash’s tenure at Rutgers was marked by struggles on the field, including a dismal 8-32 overall record and a 3-26 mark in the Big Ten, there are several factors that suggest he is primed for success in his new role. One of the key areas where Ash is expected to make an impact is in recruiting.
According to 247Sports national recruiting analyst Brian Dohn, Ash has a strong reputation as a recruiter. Dohn points to Ash’s ability to identify and secure commitments from top talent, including players like Jonathan Taylor and Ihmir Smith-Marsette, who went on to achieve success at the collegiate and professional levels.
“Chris Ash has a good eye for talent, and he’s able to connect with kids,” Dohn said. “He’s a good recruiter, and he’s able to build relationships with players and their families.”
Ash’s experience as a head coach at Rutgers has also provided him with valuable insight into the inner workings of a college football program. Despite the challenges he faced during his time at Rutgers, Ash was able to build a strong foundation and establish a culture of accountability and discipline within the program.
As Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator, Ash will be tasked with developing a unit that can compete with the best teams in the country. With his experience and expertise, Ash is well-equipped to make an immediate impact and help the Fighting Irish become a dominant force on defense.
One of the key areas where Ash is expected to focus his attention is on improving Notre Dame’s pass rush. The Fighting Irish struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks last season, and Ash will be tasked with developing a scheme that can get to the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses.
Ash’s experience as a defensive coordinator at Ohio State and Arkansas will serve him well in this regard. During his time at Ohio State, Ash helped develop a defense that was one of the best in the country, and he will look to replicate that success at Notre Dame.
In addition to his on-field expertise, Ash is also expected to be a key contributor to Notre Dame’s recruiting efforts. With his experience as a head coach and defensive coordinator, Ash has established relationships with coaches and players across the country, and he will be able to leverage those relationships to help the Fighting Irish land top talent.
“Chris Ash is a great hire for Notre Dame,” Dohn said. “He’s a good coach, and he’s a good recruiter. He’s going to be able to help the Fighting Irish land some top talent, and he’s going to be able to develop a defense that can compete with the best teams in the country.”
Overall, the hiring of Chris Ash as Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator is a move that is expected to pay dividends for the Fighting Irish. With his experience, expertise, and recruiting prowess, Ash is well-equipped to help Notre Dame become a dominant force on defense and compete for championships.
