As the college football recruiting landscape shifts, Notre Dame has emerged as a formidable competitor. The Irish are increasingly securing top prospects from regions historically dominated by Penn State. The Fighting Irish have had recent success in landing offensive tackle Grayson McKeogh, along with defensive backs Khary Adams and highly rated safety Joey O’Brien. It has caught the attention of recruiting experts and Penn State watchers alike. What exactly is Notre Dame offering these coveted recruits that is swaying their decisions? And how much of this momentum can be attributed to head coach Marcus Freeman and his recruiting team?
The answer lies in a blend of competitive on-field performance, a compelling cultural environment, a family-first recruiting philosophy, and strategic personal connections.
Marcus Freeman’s Recruiting Influence
Since stepping into the head coaching role, Marcus Freeman has quickly built a reputation as one of the nation’s top recruiters. His ability to connect personally with recruits, combined with a dedicated recruiting staff, has elevated Notre Dame’s appeal. Freeman and his staff operate with a family-centered approach. It mirrors Penn State’s core values but is enhanced by Notre Dame’s global academic prestige and broad brand recognition.
This recruiting cycle has seen Notre Dame add several four-star talents who were previously targeted by Penn State. Adams, a Maryland native, cited Notre Dame’s exceptional defensive back development under coach Mike Mickens as a key factor. Adams has not publicly compared schools in detail. But Notre Dame’s reputation for nurturing NFL-caliber defensive backs clearly plays a role.
A crucial element in Notre Dame’s success with O’Brien was the close bond built by recruiting director Carter Auman. O’Brien’s family described it on ‘X’ as brother-like, emphasizing a level of trust and personal investment that resonated deeply. O’Brien also highlighted his confidence in Freeman’s leadership as pivotal to his commitment.
Penn State’s coaching staff, including linebackers coach Dan Connor, defensive recruiting coordinator and cornerbacks coach Terry Smith, and safeties coach Anthony Poindexter, is widely respected for player development and recruiting efforts. However, Notre Dame’s ability to forge especially close personal ties with key recruits like O’Brien has recently given them an edge in fiercely contested recruiting battles.
Tradition and Academic Distinction
Notre Dame’s identity extends far beyond the football field. Known globally as a top academic institution with an expansive brand presence, Notre Dame offers recruits a level of prestige that few programs can match. The NCAA’s most recent Graduation Success Rate (GSR) report was released in November 2024. Notre Dame’s football team boasts an impressive 99% graduation success rate, compared to Penn State’s solid but lower 90%. Penn State enjoys passionate fan support and a storied football tradition. But it cannot match Notre Dame’s combination of international academic reputation and global recognition. For recruits and families who value athletic and academic excellence, Notre Dame’s global university status offers a uniquely compelling proposition.
On-Field Achievements and Recruiting Momentum
Notre Dame’s win over Penn State in the 2025 Orange Bowl marked a pivotal moment for the program. Overcoming a 2nd quarter 10-point deficit, the Fighting Irish demonstrated resilience and strategic coaching on a national stage. Both teams competed at the highest level during the 2024 season, with championship aspirations. But Notre Dame’s more consistent playoff success over the past decade has helped strengthen its recruiting pitch. High school prospects want to join programs that offer the best opportunities to compete for titles and develop professionally, areas where Notre Dame has built solid momentum under Freeman.
The “Yankees of College Football,” A Complex Fan Identity
Notre Dame’s fan base carries a unique national presence, much like storied franchises such as the Yankees in baseball or the Cowboys in the NFL. Their following extends well beyond regional ties, drawing supporters who value the program’s rich tradition and prestige. This broad appeal contributes to a passionate, sometimes polarizing reputation within college football circles.
This dynamic adds to Notre Dame’s recruiting appeal. The program’s historic stature and nationwide recognition offer prospects the chance to compete on a grand stage with extensive exposure, making it an attractive destination for elite recruits.
Shifts in Recruiting Footprints
Notre Dame currently enjoys an advantage in recruiting momentum. Its success in landing elite prospects in contested regions gives the Fighting Irish an edge in the race for top talent. Notre Dame’s gains in traditionally Penn State-heavy recruiting grounds reflect a deliberate strategy by Freeman and his staff to expand their footprint and deepen relationships in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Penn State must now aggressively pursue remaining key targets such as 2026 cornerback Dorian Barney, especially after losing Danny Odem to Nebraska.
The battle for 2026 offensive lineman Immanuel Iheanacho sees Penn State trailing Oregon but closing the gap after his official visits. Factors such as proximity to home and development opportunities under Penn State offensive line coach Phil Trautwein could sway Iheanacho. Penn State also needs to aggressively pursue other top 2026 offensive linemen, including Thomas Wilder, Drew Evers, and Marlen Bright. Safety Jordan Deck, another highly regarded 2026 target, has committed to Baylor, creating a vacancy Penn State must address.
These efforts come as Notre Dame climbs into the top two nationally in recruiting rankings according to 247Sports composite team rankings, heightening the competitive pressure.
The Recruiting Battle Ahead
One of the next critical recruiting battles between these programs centers on running back Brian Bonner. He is a 4-star prospect and the No. 7 overall running back in the country according to 247Sports composite rankings. Penn State currently has only one running back committed for the 2026 cycle, Messiah Mickens, who ranks 13th nationally. Notre Dame, meanwhile, has already locked in two top running backs. Javian Osborne and Jonaz Walton are ranked sixth and tenth, respectively.
This ongoing rivalry underscores that winning recruiting battles requires more than just on-field success. It demands a culture of development, strong relationships, and a powerful brand presence. Penn State must take swift and decisive action to strengthen recruiting at critical positions. There is a need to reinforce its culture and development pipeline to close the gap and remain competitive if it hopes to maintain a top 10 recruiting class for the 2026 cycle. The way things are shaping up, it does not look likely.
Main Image: Syndication: Hanover Evening Sun
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