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The Independent: A Notre Dame Football Podcast

The Independent: A Notre Dame Football Podcast

150 episodes — Page 2 of 3

Ep 992025 Notre Dame Football Fan Survey

Matt & Pete return for Pete’s annual Notre Dame Fan Survey. Tune in for thoughts from the fan base on the USC series potentially ending, where are Notre Dame’s strength, how they view Marcus Freeman three years in and who will be the breakout start for 2025? Plus, thoughts on the NBC broadcast crew and their ideal booth pairing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 2, 202550 min

Ep 98Greg McElroy on the state of Notre Dame Football

Matt & Pete are joined by ESPN analyst and former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy to get his perspective of the state of the Irish heading into the 2025 season. What are his impressions of Marcus Freeman after covering the team so closely during the playoff run last year, how does he feel like Notre Dame is setup in terms of depth for the season and does he expect another deep playoff run for 2025? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 25, 202557 min

Ep 97Recapping the latest from Marcus Freeman

It may be May, but there is no shortage of Notre Dame football news to cover. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson have you covered on the latest from Marcus Freeman, the USC rivalry, College Football Playoff talks and much, much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 2, 202542 min

Ep 96ESPN’s David Hale talks Clemson series & ACC

Matt & Pete are back to talk about the latest news from the Fighting Irish and are joined by David Hale of ESPN to talk about the Clemson Series and the ACC. Never too early to look ahead at the Notre Dame season and with the news of the kick times for games on NBC, Matt & Pete share their thoughts on the lineup Marcus Freeman’s team will face once the Fall begins. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 13, 202543 min

Ep 95Recapping Notre Dame's spring season

Marcus Freeman officially put a bow on Notre Dame's spring campaign Wednesday, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break down the Fighting Irish coach's press conference and deliver their big takeaways from the spring. What does the departure of Steve Angeli mean? Who has the edge in the QB battle between CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey? How has Chris Ash put his fingerprints on the defense? The gang discusses all of that and more, and takes your questions as well. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apr 24, 202556 min

Ep 94Notre Dame Spring Game Preview

Notre Dame’s Blue-Gold Spring game is just around the corner, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to preview the weekend. What should folks watch for with QBs Steve Angeli, CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey? Plus, which team would you like to see the Fighting Irish face in a hypothetical scrimmage? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apr 11, 202545 min

Ep 93Notre Dame Football Spring Check-In with Tim Murray

Matt & Pete are joined by Tim Murray to discuss Notre Dame's Spring Football latest news including the quarterback competition and Steve Angeli's place in it. What does Tim think of the QB battle between Steve Angeli, CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey? Tune in for the latest on Marcus Freeman's squad as well as thoughts on the biggest impact player to expect coming out of the transfer portal. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Apr 4, 202545 min

Ep 92Notre Dame Football Opens Spring Ball

Notre Dame kicked off spring football on Wednesday, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break down Marcus Freeman’s fourth season in charge. How is the quarterback battle shaping up with Steve Angeli, CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey? How will players like Jeremiyah Love be used after a long season? How will Chris Ash and the rest of the new faces on staff fit in? One thing is for certain: It will be a spring like no other, after the longest Fighting Irish season ever. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 20, 202543 min

Ep 91Previewing Notre Dame’s QB battle, breaking down the GM hire and an ode to Zack Martin

Spring ball is less than two weeks away at Notre Dame, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to get you ready. The guys break down the hire of new GM Mike Martin, and they take a look at the upcoming quarterback battle of Steve Angeli, CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey. Plus, Matt and Pete go down memory lane of some of the best Fighting Irish offensive linemen they have covered, in honor of Zack Martin’s retirement from the Dallas Cowboys Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 7, 202548 min

Ep 90Catching up on Notre Dame's offseason

It's been a short but busy offseason for Notre Dame, with the Irish hiring running backs coach Ja'Juan Seider away from Penn State to replace Deland McCullough, and with the search for a new general manager still going, as James Blanchard elected to stay at Texas Tech. What's next for Marcus Freeman and his squad? Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break it all down, take your questions and much more, on the latest episode of The Independent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 11, 202545 min

Ep 89Notre Dame hires Chris Ash as defensive coordinator

Matt & Pete return to discuss the news that Notre Dame is bringing in former Rutgers head coach and Ohio State defensive coordinator Chris Ash to take on the open DC role for the Irish. Find out their thoughts on the hire and what it will mean for Marcus Freeman's team next season. Plus, thoughts on timing announcement for the schedule next fall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 1, 202550 min

Ep 88Notre Dame falls to Ohio State, 34-23, in the College Football Playoff National Championship

Notre Dame's season came to an end Monday night, with the Fighting Irish falling to Ohio State, 34-23. Marcus Freeman's squad fought back from a 24-point deficit to make it interesting in the fourth quarter, and Riley Leonard showed plenty of guts, but in the end it wasn't enough.Notre Dame finishes the 2024-25 season at 14-2 after a remarkable College Football Playoff run. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break down what happened in Atlanta and to close the book on this season.Co-hosts: Matt Fortuna, Pete Sampson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 21, 20251h 6m

Ep 87National Championship Preview & Predictions: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

Matt & Pete weigh in with their picks for the National Championship between Notre Dame and Ohio State with guest Tim Murray. Plus, they talk about the build up to this game and the cultural conversation around Notre Dame including Shane Gillis’ latest ad with Under Armour. How do the Fighting Irish matchup with Ohio State? What can Al Golden do to scheme against Jeremiah Smith and how can Notre Dame rattle Will Howard. Now that Jeremiyah Love is 100% how will that impact the game and do the Irish win the turnover battle against Ohio State? What would it mean for Marcus Freeman and this team to pull of the upset? Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 19, 20251h 6m

Ep 86Tony Simeone recaps Notre Dame season & looks ahead to Ohio State

Matt & Pete are back for another episode in the build up to the National Championship matchup with Ohio State on Monday night in Atlanta. They are joined by Tony Simeone, play-by-play voice of the Fighting Irish to talk about this season to date and what he expects from the matchup with the Buckeyes. How did Notre Dame turn things around after the loss to Northern Illinois and he assesses the coaching job of Marcus Freeman. Plus what will the legacy be for this Notre Dame team and Freeman if they are able to pull off the win and earn the first National Championship since 1988. Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 17, 202559 min

Ep 85Early look at Ohio State-Notre Dame with Ari Wasserman

Matt & Pete are joined by Ari Wasserman of On3 for their first look at Notre Dame vs. Ohio State for the National Championship. Get early impressions of the matchup, what areas of the game Notre Dame will have the advantage against the Buckeyes and Ari's thoughts on if this is a team of destiny for the Irish? Plus, who wins the coaching matchup between Marcus Freeman and Ryan Day and which College Football coach would actually be good to hang out with at Chili's?Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 14, 202553 min

Ep 84Notre Dame beats Penn State in the Orange Bowl, advances to the National Championship Game

Notre Dame came back from a 10-point deficit to upset Penn State, 27-24, and punch its ticket to Atlanta for the Jan. 20 College Football Playoff National Championship Game. There, the Fighting Irish will face Ohio State or Texas.Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break it all down. Orange Bowl Defensive MVP Christian Gray came up with the timely interception to set up Mitch Jeter's game-winning field goal. Riley Leonard won Offensive MVP honors, but not without some help from backup QB Steve Angeli and WR Jaden Greathouse.Now, Marcus Freeman will looks to become the fifth Notre Dame head coach to win a national title in his third year with the school.Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 10, 20251h 5m

Ep 83Orange Bowl Preview: Notre Dame vs. Penn State | College Football Playoff Semifinal

Matt & Pete share the latest on the Fighting Irish heading into their semifinal matchup with Penn State on Thursday night. Tune in for injury updates on Jeremiyah Love and Abdul Carter, what Marcus Freeman shared with press this week as well as predictions for the matchup in South Florida. Can Riley Leonard take this game on his back like he did against Georgia? Will the defense get pressure on Drew Allar? Can Jadarian Price take over the workload if Love is not 100%.Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 8, 202537 min

Ep 82Previewing Notre Dame vs. Penn State with The Nittany Dispatch

Get ready for the 2025 Orange Bowl as Notre Dame faces Penn State for the chance to move on to the National Championship. Matt Fortuna & Pete Sampson join from The Independent and Audrey Snyder and Jon Sauber from The Nittany Dispatch to give a preview of the upcoming semifinal. Find out what both sets of reporters think of the opposing team and how Riley Leonard, Drew Allar, Jeremiyah Love, Nick Singleton, Jadarian Price, Kaytron Allen, Abdul Carter and Xavier Watt will play in this massive game for both teams. Also, which coach has the edge between Marcus Freeman and James Franklin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 7, 202555 min

Ep 81Notre Dame wins the Sugar Bowl with 23-10 victory of Georgia | College Football Playoff

Notre Dame punched its ticket to the College Football Playoff semifinal with an emphatic win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Marcus Freeman out-coached Kirby Smart throughout the entire game and the Irish made enough plays to hold the margin over the Bulldogs to earn the win. The Notre Dame defense stifled Georgia and Gunner Stockton all game long and Riley Leonard used his legs and his arm to give the Irish the lead. The 98-yard kick return by Jayden Harrison helped create the separation they needed to earn the win. Next, the Irish head to the Orange Bowl to face James Franklin and Penn State.Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 3, 20251h 23m

Ep 80SUGAR BOWL PREVIEW: Notre Dame vs. Georgia | College Football Playoff

The Fighting Irish head to New Orleans to take on Georgia for the right to move on to the semfinal of the College Football Playoff. Tune in for thoughts from Matt, Pete and a host of fans who share their perspective before one of the biggest games for Notre Dame in the last decade. What has Marcus Freeman said in the lead up to the matchup and how will he match wits with Kirby Smart? Is Riley Leonard ready for the Bulldogs defense and Jeremiyah Love continue to break big runs against this vaunted defense? Is Gunner Stockton ready for the Irish defense and how will Al Golden look to disrupt the first time starter?Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 31, 20241h 17m

Ep 79Notre Dame beats Indiana 27-17 to win the first ever home College Football Playoff game

Notre Dame is on to the Sugar Bowl, as the Fighting Irish made quick work of Indiana in front of a raucous crowd in South Bend. Marcus Freeman's squad is now on an 11-game winning streak as it readies for Georgia on New Year's Day. Riley Leonard commanded the offense, Jeremiyah Love had a 98-yard TD run and Jordan Faison had an Irish season-high of 89 receiving yards as the defense made life miserable for the Hoosiers. Tune in to hear Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson recap it all.Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 21, 202457 min

Ep 78PREVIEW: Notre Dame vs. Indiana | College Football Playoff

The long awaited opening round home playoff game in South Bend is almost here and Pete, Matt, and Tim Murray are back to preview the matchup for the Irish with Indiana. Who will shine on the biggest stage for Notre Dame? It’s Riley Leonard opposite Kurtis Rourke, Marcus Freeman vs Curt Cignetti and Jeremiyah Love vs. the Hoosier defense. Plus Marcus Freeman’s contract news out of South Bend, the atmosphere fans can expect in Notre Dame Stadium and predictions for the first round matchup. Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 18, 202456 min

Ep 77Notre Dame College Football Playoff Preview with Zach Osterman

Pete shares his first reaction to the College Football Playoff draw for the Irish as they will match up against Indiana in South Bend on Dec. 20th. What should Notre Dame fans expect from the Hoosiers and “Google Me” Curt Cignetti? Is Kurtis Rourke going to move the ball against the Irish defense? Will Riley Leonard have success against the Hoosier defense or is it Jeremiyah Love who will hurdle Indiana defenders on the way to victory. Plus, Pete shares what Marcus Freeman has been saying in the build up to the matchup. Future Fans: helping little kids become BIG fans, find out more at FutureFans.com and get a 15% off discount with the code IRISH. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 14, 202445 min

Ep 76Notre Dame College Football Playoff ranking reaction & postseason early thoughts

Pete is joined by Tim Murray to discuss the latest College Football Playoff ranking and where they think the Irish will end up when the season is all said and done. Will Marcus Freeman’s team earn the coveted five seed setting them up for a favorable road to the semifinals or will they host an SEC powerhouse in an opening winter game in South Bend. Would Alabama coming to South Bend be a good matchup for Notre Dame and set them up for a memorable playoff run and what can the Irish expect from Riley Leonard and Jeremiyah Love when the games matter the most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 4, 202445 min

Ep 75Notre Dame is College Football Playoff Bound after defeating USC, 49-35

Pete Sampson recaps Notre Dame's season-defining (and capping) win over USC that will clinch a berth in the College Football Playoff for Marcus Freeman and the Irish. Riley Leonard threw for 155 yards and a touchdown while Jadarian Price led the team in rushing with 111 yards. The Irish will now await the selection show for their place in the playoff and find out who they will likely be hosting at Notre Dame Stadium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 1, 202447 min

Ep 74Notre Dame Preview: USC Regular Season Finale

The Irish look to close out the regular season with a victory in LA and solidify their spot in the college football playoff. Pete Sampson is joined by Tim Murray to breakdown the matchup and discuss how Marcus Freeman will match wits with Lincoln Riley and if USC has enough fight left in them to make it a challenge on Saturday. Will Riley Leonard go for a big day or is it Jeremiyah Love who keeps the Irish rolling on the ground on the way to victory? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 28, 202454 min

Ep 73Notre Dame Dominates Army in Yankee Stadium, 49-14

Marcus Freeman’s squad continued its run of dominant play with a win over previously unbeaten Army. Jeremiyah Love score three touchdowns and Riley Leonard threw two touchdowns in the victory. Pete Sampson recaps the win as well as where Notre Dame sits in the College Football Playoff Ranking and how the Irish resume stacks up against the rest of college football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 24, 202431 min

Ep 72Notre Dame vs. Army Preview with Mike Monaco

Tune in for a preview of the upcoming matchup with undefeated Army from Yankee Stadium. What can the Irish expect from an Army team that has its doubters of its 9-0 record. Plus, Mike Monaco joins the podcast to talk about what he saw covering Army earlier this year as well as thoughts on how Marcus Freeman's squad has fared this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 21, 202429 min

Ep 71Notre Dame beats Virginia 35-14

Notre Dame capped off Senior Day with a win over Virginia, 35-14, to improve to 9-1 on the season. Marcus Freeman's squad looks primed for a College Football Playoff berth -- and perhaps even a CFP game in South Bend, Indiana -- as it readies for Army and USC to close the regular season. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson talk about the dominance over the Cavaliers and much more, as Riley Leonard threw for 214 yards, Jeremiyah Love ran for 137 yards and Al Golden's defense forced five turnovers. Co-hosts: Matt Fortuna, Pete Sampson Producer: Mike Wolf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 17, 20241h 5m

Ep 70Notre Dame vs. Virginia Preview with Eric Mac Lain

It's Wednesday, which means it's time for Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson to get together and chop it up about Notre Dame football. The Fighting Irish checked in at No. 8 in Tuesday's College Football Playoff selection committee rankings, which would give them a first-round matchup at Tennessee. How can Marcus Freeman's squad continue to move up? And what will it take for Riley Leonard and Co. to run the table the rest of the way, starting with Saturday's Senior Day contest against Virginia. Friend of the show Eric Mac Lain joins the guys to preview the game against the Cavaliers and to talk about how the Irish fit in with the ACC's scheduling agreement. The ACC Network analyst and former Clemson offensive lineman talks about the league at-large as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 13, 20241h 11m

Ep 69Notre Dame dominates Florida State, 52-3

No. 10 Notre Dame came out of its open date in dominant fashion, beating Florida State 52-3. Riley Leonard tallied 285 yards of total offense and 3 TDs, Jeremiyah Love reached the end zone for the ninth straight game and Steve Angeli got in on the action with a TD pass late against the Seminoles. Marcus Freeman's squad improved to 8-1 as it makes its College Football Playoff push, with Senior Day against Virginia on deck. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here LIVE to recap the win and look ahead at what awaits the Irish the rest of this month. Co-hosts: Matt Fortuna, Pete Sampson Producer: Mike Wolf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 10, 202453 min

Ep 68Notre Dame vs. Florida State Preview with Tom Mendoza

Notre Dame is back from its open date and ready to host Florida State in primetime this Saturday. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to preview the game between Marcus Freeman's squad and Mike Norvell's squad. The guys react to the College Football Playoff rankings, as the Fighting Irish debuted at No. 10 on Tuesday night. Plus, special guest Tom Mendoza joins the show for a candid conversation on his Notre Dame background, his relationships with Freeman and AD Pete Bevacqua, and why he has decided to invest so much in his alma mater, having endowed the Mendoza College of Business in 2000. You won't want to miss this conversation. Co-hosts: Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson Producer: Mike Wolf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 6, 20241h 10m

Ep 67Notre Dame Bye Week with Ty Hildenbrandt

Notre Dame may have a bye week, but there is still plenty to talk about. Join co-hosts Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson as they go live on Halloween with special guest Ty Hildenbrandt of the Solid Verbal. What's Marcus Freeman's bye week agenda? Can Riley Leonard and the Fighting Irish offense continue to improve? And where will they be in next week's first College Football Playoff rankings? Matt, Pete and Ty answer all of your questions and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 31, 202454 min

Ep 66Notre Dame ends Navy's undefeated season, 51-14

No. 12 Notre Dame left no doubt in a dominant performance against No. 24 Navy at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Marcus Freeman's squad now has its first six-game winning streak of his tenure, and it heads into its second open date with plenty of College Football Playoff momentum. QB Riley Leonard has turned a corner, Al Golden's defense has continued to dominate, and everything is still in front of the Fighting Irish. Co-hosts: Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson Producer: Mike Wolf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 26, 202442 min

Ep 65Notre Dame vs. Navy Preview with Ian Book

No. 12 Notre Dame looks to improve to 7-1 this Saturday as the Fighting Irish head to East Rutherford, N.J., to take on undefeated, 24th-ranked Navy in a game with massive College Football Playoff implications. Can Marcus Freeman's squad continue its winning ways? Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson preview the game and much more. Plus, Notre Dame's all-time winningest QB Ian Book joins the show to talk reflect on his Irish career, talk about life in the NFL, and share insightful stories about greats of the game he has been fortunate to be around, from Patrick Mahomes to Mike Leach. You won't want to miss this conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 23, 20241h 6m

Ep 64Notre Dame beats Georgia Tech, 31-13

Notre Dame improved to 6-1 with a convincing 31-13 win over Georgia Tech in Atlanta's Mercedes Benz-Stadium. Riley Leonard ran for two TDs and Al Golden's defense suffocated the Yellow Jackets' running game. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to recap the win and talk about what's next for Marcus Freeman's Fighting Irish as they ready for Navy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 20, 202441 min

Ep 63Notre Dame vs Georgia Tech Preview with Shaun Crawford

No. 12 Notre Dame starts the second half of its season with a trip to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech. The Fighting Irish look to improve to 6-1, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to preview the contest and talk about the week that was, including breaking down how the Irish respond without Benjamin Morrison. Plus, former Irish captain Shaun Crawford joins the show for a fun interview going down memory lane of his recruitment, plus his thoughts on this year's squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 16, 20241h 12m

Ep 62Notre Dame Dominates Stanford 49-7

Notre Dame dominated on both sides of the ball in its 49-7 win Saturday over Stanford, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to talk about it on the latest live episode of The Independent. Marcus Freeman's team improves to 5-1 and now readies for a trip to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech. Have Riley Leonard and the offense turned a corner at just the right time? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 13, 202451 min

Ep 61Notre Dame vs. Stanford preview with Mike Golic Jr.

No. 11 Notre Dame readies for Stanford as the Fighting Irish come off an open date, and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to preview the contest against the Cardinal. Plus, special guest Mike Golic Jr. joins the show to talk about Marcus Freeman's third year, the Irish offensive line and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 9, 20241h 6m

Ep 60Notre Dame Bye Week with Paul Burmeister

No. 14 Notre Dame enters the open date at 4-1 after beating Louisville. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here with another live episode of The Independent to preview the second half of the season for Marcus Freeman's squad. Plus, NBC's Paul Burmeister joins the show after calling Saturday's Fighting Irish game for Peacock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 3, 20241h 1m

Ep 59Notre Dame defeats Louisville, 31-24

No. 16 Notre Dame enters its open date at 4-1 after beating No. 15 Louisville, 31-24. QB Riley Leonard accounted for 3 total TDs and the two teams combined for four turnovers, culminating in a fourth-down stop from Al Golden's defense to clinch the win. What's this mean for Marcus Freeman's team moving forward? Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to break it down on the latest episode of The Independent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 29, 202457 min

Ep 58Notre Dame vs. Louisville Preview with Mark Ennis

No. 15 Notre Dame hosts No. 16 Louisville this Saturday as the Fighting Irish look to avenge last year's loss to the Cardinals. Can Marcus Freeman get the best of Jeff Brohm this time around? Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson preview the contest with special guest Mark Ennis of ESPN Louisville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 25, 202448 min

Ep 57Notre Dame defeats Miami (OH) 28-3

Notre Dame improved to 3-1 with a win over MAC opponent Miami (Ohio), and Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson are here to talk about it. Riley Leonard threw his first TD pass of the season and Al Golden's defense locked down the RedHawks as the Fighting Irish look ahead to Louisville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 22, 202447 min

Ep 56Miami (Ohio) at Notre Dame Preview featuring Chuck Martin

Notre Dame looks to go to 3-1 as Miami (Ohio) comes to South Bend, led by former Fighting Irish assistant (and longtime ND fan) Chuck Martin. The 11th-year RedHawks coach joins the show, as Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson preview this Saturday's game and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 19, 202445 min

Ep 55Postgame Reaction: Notre Dame Smokes Purdue, 66-7

Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson go live after the Fighting Irish bludgeon the Boilermakers, bringing Marcus Freeman's squad to 2-1. All four QBs -- Riley Leonard, Steve Angeli, Kenny Minchey, CJ Carr -- saw game action as this one was over early. Where did this performance come from? And how did Notre Dame bounce back so well from the Northern Illinois loss? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 15, 202441 min

Ep 54Notre Dame at Purdue Preview with Aaron Taylor

How does Marcus Freeman's Notre Dame squad respond after the stunning loss to Northern Illinois? Is QB Riley Leonard ready to go for Purdue? Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson discuss all of that and much more. Plus, former Fighting Irish All-American and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins the show to offer his perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 12, 20241h 3m

Ep 53Postgame Live: Notre Dame Stunned by Northern Illinois

Marcus Freeman's third Fighting Irish team suffers a stunning 16-14 loss to 28-point underdog Northern Illinois at Notre Dame Stadium. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson talk about Riley Leonard's struggles, the defense's shortcomings and where ND goes from here after a 1-1 start to the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 8, 202453 min

Ep 52Notre Dame win over Texas A&M with Stanford Steve plus previewing Northern Illinois

Matt & Pete talk more about Notre Dame's opening win at Texas A&M and what this means for the rest of the Irish season. What did Riley Leonard show in his debut in the blue & gold and how did Marcus Freeman's enthusiasm drive the team. Plus, Stanford Steve joins the show to share his thoughts on Notre Dame as well as what it has been like this year on College Gameday with the addition of Nick Saban. Finally, the guys preview the matchup with Northern Illinois for the home opener in South Bend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 5, 202452 min

Ep 51Postgame Live | Notre Dame beats Texas A&M

Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson go live from College Station, Texas to talk about Notre Dame's thrilling 23-13 win over Texas A&M to open Year 3 of the Marcus Freeman era. New QB Riley Leonard made clutch plays in the fourth quarter, Xavier Watts and the defense dominated, and Jadarian Price and Jeremiyah Love found the end zone in Saturday's thriller in SEC country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 1, 20241h 6m

Ep 50Notre Dame at Texas A&M Preview with Carter Karels

The season is finally ready to kickoff and Matt & Pete return for the first preview episode of the season, Notre Dame at Texas A&M. Tune in for a live Q&A with Notre Dame fans at ESQ Clothing in Chicago where all topics of Irish football are brought up. Who is going to stand out from the group of young linebackers, can the offensive line hold up and are the receivers up to task. Plus predictions for Marcus Freeman's team on the road against the Aggies. Carter Karels of GigEm247 joins the show to help preview the matchup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 30, 20241h 23m