Notre Dame stands one victory away from its first National Championship since 1988, when Lou Holtz led the Fighting Irish to an undefeated season.
Holtz, who turned 88 on January 6, shaped Notre Dame football during his 11-year tenure as head coach. After his coaching career, he became a prominent voice in college football through analyst roles at CBS and ESPN before stepping away from the spotlight in recent years.
At Notre Dame, Holtz compiled a 100-30-2 record, placing him third in program history for total wins behind Brian Kelly (113) and Knute Rockne. His tenure included five seasons with 10 or more wins.
Lou Holtz’s Notre Dame coaching record:
– 1986: 5-6
– 1987: 8-4
– 1988: 12-0 (National Champions)
– 1989: 12-1
– 1990: 9-3
– 1991: 10-3
– 1992: 10-1-1
– 1993: 11-1
– 1994: 6-5-1
– 1995: 9-3
– 1996: 8-3
Before Notre Dame, Holtz coached at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, and Minnesota, along with a brief stint leading the New York Jets. He finished his career with six seasons at South Carolina.
The former coach recently sparked controversy before the 2023 Notre Dame-Ohio State game by questioning the Buckeyes’ toughness.
“I don’t feel bad about saying it because I believe it, and Notre Dame was the better football team,” Holtz said. “I’m sorry that Coach Day was offended by it.”
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day responded forcefully after his team’s victory over Notre Dame.
“I’d like to know where Lou Holtz is right now,” Day said. “What he said about our team, I cannot believe. This is a tough team right here.”
Holtz later contacted Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman to apologize for motivating Ohio State, though he maintained his stance about the Buckeyes’ playing style.
