How Notre Dame football can counteract potential growing pains

Eric Hansen discusses the adjustments the Irish are making to avoid early-season defensive struggles in 2026.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:03pm

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Eric Hansen discusses Notre Dame's efforts to avoid early-season defensive struggles in 2026, including the Football School concept in winter workouts, the advantage of an early start to the 2026 season, and the experience and skill sets of the new defensive coaches. He also provides insights on the offensive line, quarterback CJ Carr, and the depth at defensive tackle.

Why it matters

Notre Dame is looking to build on its success and compete for a national championship in 2026. Avoiding the kind of early-season defensive struggles that have plagued the team in recent years will be crucial to their title aspirations.

The details

Notre Dame is making several adjustments to try to avoid the early-season defensive struggles that have plagued the team in recent years. This includes the Football School concept in winter workouts, which focuses on learning and adjusting earlier in the offseason. The team also got a head start on 2026 in December, rather than having a compressed spring football calendar. Additionally, the new defensive coaches, including Charlie Partridge and Aaron Henry, bring valuable experience and familiarity with the system that should help the transition. On offense, the Irish are counting on continued development from quarterback CJ Carr and a deep defensive tackle rotation to provide a strong foundation.

  • Notre Dame started preparing for the 2026 season in December, rather than having a compressed spring football calendar.
  • Spring practice for the 2026 season begins on March 20, 2026.

The players

Marcus Freeman

The head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team, who is working to build the team's defensive structure and player development to avoid early-season struggles.

CJ Carr

The returning starting quarterback for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who is expected to continue his development and provide a strong foundation for the offense.

Charlie Partridge

The new defensive line coach for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who brings valuable experience and familiarity with the defensive system.

Aaron Henry

The new defensive backs coach for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who also has familiarity with the defensive system.

Brian Jean-Mary

The new defensive coordinator for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who has previous coordinator experience that should help the transition.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.