The Independent is the essential listen for fans of Fighting Irish football. Pete Sampson of the Athletic and Matt Fortuna of The Inside Zone are back to take you inside the Notre Dame program. With a combined 35 years + of experience on the ND beat, this twice weekly podcast has you covered for everything blue and gold.
Thu, April 24, 2025
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.
Fri, April 11, 2025
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?
Fri, April 04, 2025
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.
Thu, March 20, 2025
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.
Fri, March 07, 2025
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
Tue, February 11, 2025
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
Sat, February 01, 2025
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
Tue, January 21, 2025
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
Sun, January 19, 2025
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
Fri, January 17, 2025
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
Tue, January 14, 2025
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
Fri, January 10, 2025
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
Wed, January 08, 2025
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
Tue, January 07, 2025
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
Fri, January 03, 2025
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
Tue, December 31, 2024
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
Sat, December 21, 2024
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
Wed, December 18, 2024
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
Sat, December 14, 2024
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
Wed, December 04, 2024
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
Sun, December 01, 2024
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
Thu, November 28, 2024
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
Sun, November 24, 2024
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
Thu, November 21, 2024
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
Sun, November 17, 2024
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
Wed, November 13, 2024
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
Sun, November 10, 2024
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
Wed, November 06, 2024
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
Thu, October 31, 2024
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
Sat, October 26, 2024
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
Wed, October 23, 2024
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
Sun, October 20, 2024
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
Wed, October 16, 2024
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
Sun, October 13, 2024
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
Wed, October 09, 2024
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
Thu, October 03, 2024
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
Sun, September 29, 2024
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
Wed, September 25, 2024
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
Sun, September 22, 2024
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
Thu, September 19, 2024
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
Sun, September 15, 2024
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
Thu, September 12, 2024
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
Sun, September 08, 2024
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
Thu, September 05, 2024
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
Sun, September 01, 2024
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
Fri, August 30, 2024
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
Mon, August 26, 2024
It's game week and Matt & Pete are back to get you ready for the start of a the Irish 2024 campaign. This week they're joined by Tony Simeone, the new radio play-by-play voice of Notre Dame, as he helps them breakdown all aspects of the season. Tune in for thoughts on the offensive line, Marcus Freeman's composure going into the Fall, Riley Leonard, as well as thoughts on the scale of this opener. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fri, August 16, 2024
Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson react to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the midway point of fall camp, take your questions on Marcus Freeman's squad, and dive into some player predictions surrounding Riley Leonard, Jeremiyah Love, Kris Mitchell, Beaux Collins, Anthonie Knapp and more ahead of the 2024 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, August 08, 2024
Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson break down Notre Dame's first week of fall camp, including a look at the offensive line, which is turning to Tosh Baker at left tackle after starter Charles Jagusah suffered a season-ending injury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, August 03, 2024
Football is back! Notre Dame just wrapped up its first camp practice, with Riley Leonard, Benjamin Morrison and the rest of the Fighting Irish holding a full open practice to the media in South Bend. Matt Fortuna and Pete Sampson share their takeaways, plus react to Marcus Freeman's post-practice press conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, July 31, 2024
The season is just around the corner and Matt & Pete return to discuss the expectations for the Irish in 2024. Find out the latest from South Bend and the predictions for year three under Marcus Freeman. What is everyone looking for in Fall Camp and how much of a difference will there be between the offense and the defense at this stage of the preseason. Plus, when will Riley Leonard get his first chance to show what he is capable of with this offense. Tune in for a preview of Fall Camp and initial reactions later this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Mon, July 01, 2024
Each week we get closer to Notre Dame Football and as we begin July, Matt & Pete dive into Pete’s annual Irish Fan survey to answer all your questions about Marcus Freeman’s team. How does the schedule look for the foreseeable future, does this team have a College Football Playoff run in them and who is going to breakthrough this Fall? Plus, how optimistic is the fan base about this Fall and do Matt & Pete agree that this is a year that warrants optimism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, June 05, 2024
Join Matt & Pete as they share the latest from Notre Dame and Marcus Freeman as the offseason continues on. Hear their thoughts on if this is a Playoff or Bust season for Freeman, how important week one at A&M is as well as what the kick times coming out this early means to fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fri, May 17, 2024
The kickoff times are rolling in and Matt & Pete are back to discuss what to expect from Notre Dame's schedule as well as how the kick times could impact the team. Plus, thoughts on the salary details shared about Marcus Freeman and staff as well as details on Pete's story on Matt Jansen, Irish head of scouting, that you can find in The Athletic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, April 24, 2024
Matt and Pete recap Notre Dame’s Blue-Gold spring game and look ahead to the Irish’s summer priorities. Why has QB depth been so important with Riley Leonard, Steve Angeli, Kenny Minchey and CJ Carr? Plus, why Marcus Freeman thinks this is his most talented team in South Bend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fri, April 19, 2024
Matt & Pete return to discuss the Blue Gold game and what they expect to see from Marcus Freeman’s team on Saturday. How will the Transfer Portal impact the Irish and what can we learn from the offense without the expected starting quarterback in Riley Leonard playing on Saturday. Plus, learn more about upcoming new football facilities for Notre Dame and how it will benefit the team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, March 16, 2024
As we head deeper into March the hoops talk continues on the Independent as Matt & Pete are joined by Irish head Women’s Basketball Coach Niele Ivey. Coach Ivey talks about the ACC tournament win as well as what to expect from Notre Dame in the NCAA Tournament as the team hosts the first two rounds. Plus, Spring Practice rolls onward as Marcus Freeman and company continue to put in work with the squad and Pete shares details from his trip around the South to visit those connected Notre Dame’s past, present and future Quarterbacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, March 09, 2024
The Irish were back on the field for the first time ahead of the 2024 season as Spring Practice as begun in South Bend. Tune in for thoughts from Matt & Pete on the new faces for Marcus Freeman’s team, where players were lining up while practicing out of pads and find out their first impression of the 2024 squad. Plus, thoughts on if the wide out group looks to have been elevated in the offseason and is the secondary the strength of this team? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, March 02, 2024
This week, Matt & Pete get ready for Notre Dame Spring Football as the first open practice of the year is on the horizon plus they are joined by first year Notre Dame Head Basketball Coach Micah Shrewsberry. The conversation also turns to the ever changing College Football landscape and how the playoff changes impact Notre Dame and what all this will do to the sport of College Football. Will Marcus Freeman’s squad make the CFB playoff this year and will the sport break up now that the Big Ten and SEC are forming an advisory committee? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, February 07, 2024
Matt & Pete return to share their takeaways from their conversations with Notre Dame players prior to winter conditioning beginning. Find out their takeaways from their first conversations with Riley Leonard as well as CJ Carr plus what new Director of Football Performance Loren Landow. Also, thoughts on the college football coaching era in NIL and what makes an coordinator job in the NFL more attractive than a head coach job in college football. Plus, expectations continue to develop for the Irish and Marcus Freeman headed into 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, January 20, 2024
Matt & Pete return to look back at the season that was for the Irish as well as discuss some of the sport altering news around Nick Saban retiring and the ensuing coach and player shuffle. Kalen DeBoer taking the Alabama job created the domino effect that spared Notre Dame but will other coaching moves impact the team. Plus, tune in for thoughts on where Marcus Freeman ranks among the top coaches in college football and early projections for the 2024 Irish season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, December 30, 2023
The Irish closed out a 10-3 season with a 40-8 victory over Oregon State to take home the Sun Bowl title and earn Marcus Freeman a Frosted Flakes bath. Steve Angeli threw for three touchdowns in his Notre Dame debut and the defense remained stout in the win. Jordan Faison earn MVP honors with 115 yards receiving and a score. The 10-3 season sets up Notre Dame with momentum heading into 2024 as they will have a chance to make the expanded playoff next year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, December 28, 2023
Matt & Pete preview the Irish bowl game against Oregon State from El Paso where Pete has the latest from Notre Dame before tomorrow’s matchup. Tune in for thoughts on how the bowl will go and how it will setup Marcus Freeman’s team for the 2024 campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sat, December 23, 2023
Join Matt & Pete as they discuss the hiring of Mike Denbrock as Notre Dame's offensive coordinator to replace Gerad Parker. How does this impact the Irish for next season and what will this mean for Marcus Freeman's staff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tue, December 19, 2023
For the third consecutive year the Irish will have a new offensive coordinator under Marcus Freeman. Join Matt & Pete as they discuss the departure of Gerad Parker and what it means for the staff and Notre Dame’s prospects in 2024. Plus, updates from the transfer portal and thoughts on how the bowl game will be impacted by this turnover on the staff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, December 13, 2023
For the second straight year the Irish bring in a highly sought after transfer portal QB in Riley Leonard from Duke. Matt & Pete discuss Leonard joining Marcus Freeman’s team and how he will fit in with this offense as well as how he compares to Sam Hartman. Plus, more news out of the portal as well as Sun Bowl opt outs and what other offseason news to expect for the Irish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tue, December 05, 2023
The Irish found out their bowl destination on Sunday night as they will be headed to El Paso, Texas to face Oregon State in the Sun Bowl. Join Matt & Pete for first thoughts on the bowl selection as well as reactions to the matchup with the Beavers. Plus, news from the transfer portal who is on the move and who could the Irish pickup for the 2024 season. Marcus Freeman addressed the matchup and awaits the decision of which players will opt-out, will Sam Hartman play for the Irish during the bowl game or will Notre Dame be with a different starting QB for the postseason. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, November 30, 2023
On this week’s episode of the Independent, Matt & Pete talk about the news that Notre Dame has parted ways with wide receivers coach Chansi Stuckey. Plus, thoughts on transfer portal options for the Irish as well as who has decided to depart the roster for the portal and will Riley Leonard be the new man under center for Marcus Freeman? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, November 26, 2023
In the final game of the regular season the Irish defeated Stanford 56-23 behind a career day for Auric Estimé. Estimé had four touchdowns and ran for a career high of 238 yards as Notre Dame improved to 9-3 on the season. Matt & Pete discuss the game against the Cardinal as well as what bowl season and the offseason holds for the Irish. What steps has Marcus Freeman taken this year and will his staff look the same at the start of next season. Will Notre Dame look for another transfer portal QB with Sam Hartman’s career coming to a close? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, November 22, 2023
Matt & Pete return for a pre-Thanksgiving show to discuss the upcoming matchup with Stanford to close out the regular season on Saturday. Plus, Father Nate Wills joins the show to talk about his role as the team chaplain and share his take on the program. Will Marcus Freeman’s team close out the year with a victory and what are the bowl possibilities for the Irish? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, November 19, 2023
Sam Hartman poured it on against his former team on Saturday, throwing for four touchdowns and 277 yards in Notre Dame’s win against Wake Forest. Rico Flores Jr. had 102 yards receiving and Marcus Freeman’s team improved to 8-3 on the season heading into their final game of the regular season against Stanford. Matt & Pete give their postgame thoughts and discuss how Notre Dame should use the final few weeks of 2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, November 16, 2023
Matt & Pete return from the bye week to preview the final home game of the season for the Irish as they face off against Wake Forest. Plus, former Notre Dame linebacker Joe Schmidt stops by to discuss his thoughts on this season so far and what remains for Marcus Freeman’s team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, November 08, 2023
This week Matt & Pete talk aftermath of the Clemson loss with Eric Mac Lain of the ACC Network as well as what does Notre Dame need to do to take the next step under Marcus Freeman. Plus, Mac Lain shares his perspective on what separates coaches in his eyes and what the Irish will need this offseason to compete at the highest level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, November 05, 2023
The Irish offense struggled throughout the day and Sam Hartman was 12-25 with 146 yards & two interceptions as Notre Dame lost to Clemson 31-23. Matt & Pete give their thoughts on the loss and where this leaves Marcus Freeman’s team heading into the final two games of the season. With the end of the regular season already in sight and a New Year’s Six bowl likely out of reach the discussion shifts to what offseason changes might come down the line for Notre Dame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, November 02, 2023
Heading into a very different Notre Dame - Clemson matchup than years past, Matt & Pete return discuss the Irish with former ND defensive lineman Ian Williams. Tune in for predictions as well as reaction to the latest from Dabo Swinney before Saturday’s game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, October 29, 2023
The Irish put together a dominant performance against Pitt as they forced five turnovers that led to 23 points and cruised to the home victory. Audric Estime rushed for 114 yards and three touchdowns while Sam Hartman threw for almost 300 yards. The Defense was led by Xavier Watt’s two interceptions and didn’t give up a score till late in the game. Join Matt & Pete for their thoughts on the win and how Notre Dame’s opponents fared on Saturday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, October 26, 2023
This week Matt & Pete return to discuss the upcoming matchup between the Irish and the Pitt Panthers. They are joined by Tim O’Malley to talk about Notre Dame headed into the final four games of the season and what it is like coaching Marcus Freeman’s kids in flag football. What can we expect from Sam Hartman the rest of the way, how have QB transfers changed college football and the duo give their predictions for the game against Pitt this weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fri, October 20, 2023
Matt & Pete are joined by Tim Murray of VSiN to discuss Notre Dame through eight games. Plus, a look at what Vegas thinks of the Irish for the remainder of the season and thoughts on how opinions of the coaching staff changed following the win over USC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, October 15, 2023
Matt & Pete share their postgame reaction to Notre Dame’s dominant victory over the Trojans. The Irish forced 3 Caleb Williams interceptions and bounced back from their defeat a week ago. Marcus Freeman praised the defense and the show looks ahead to what else ND fans can expect from this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, October 11, 2023
Matt & Pete are joined by Antonio Morales of the Athletic to discuss the upcoming matchup with the Trojans in South Bend this Saturday. Plus, the state of the program following seven games and predictions for how the Irish will fare against USC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, October 08, 2023
Matt & Pete discuss the struggles for the Irish in their Saturday night defeat at Louisville. Sam Hartman threw three picks and the offense could not get going against the Cardinals as Notre Dame falls to 5-2 on the season. Where do the Irish go from here and how do you assess Marcus Freeman and his staff following a loss that has the team in a tough spot going into the matchup against USC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, October 04, 2023
This week, friend of the show and former Irish offensive lineman Mike Golic Jr. joins to talk about Notre Dame’s season through six games and what all these night games mean to players. Plus, Matt & Pete preview the Saturday night matchup at Louisville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, October 01, 2023
The Irish found a way to win on the road at Duke with a final drive that kept Notre Dame’s season from spiraling. Matt & Pete give their postgame reaction to a game that appeared to have the Irish headed for back-to-back losses before Sam Hartman & Audric Estime’s final drive heroics. Marcus Freeman called it a “Sweet Victory” and Notre Dame improves to 5-1 on the season before another road trip next week to Louisville. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, September 27, 2023
How does Notre Dame respond from a gut-wrenching loss to Ohio State? Ty Hildenbrandt from the Solid Verbal joins Matt and Pete to talk it out. Plus, the guys preview this weekend’s game at Duke. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, September 24, 2023
Matt & Pete share their thoughts on Notre Dame’s first loss of the season against Ohio State. Tune in for perspective on the ending and what Marcus Freeman had to say about the sequence that led to giving up the game-winning touchdown. What is the lasting impact of this game and where do the Irish go from here? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fri, September 22, 2023
A monumental game necessitates a monumental week of podcasting with the second episode previewing Notre Dame welcoming Ohio State this Saturday. Matt & Pete answer questions during a live taping of the show in Chicago at ESQ Clothing and give their predictions for how this one will play out. Plus, don't miss the live postgame show following the game Saturday night approximately one hour after the final whistle on The Independent YouTube page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, September 20, 2023
The biggest Notre Dame home game in nearly two decades is upon us as Ohio State pays a visit to South Bend this weekend. Matt & Pete are joined by former Buckeye and current NBC analyst Joshua Perry to discuss the matchup as well as his thoughts on the Irish and Marcus Freeman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, September 17, 2023
As Marcus Freeman said afterward: It’s Ohio State week. Matt and Pete recap Notre Dame’s 41-17 win over Central Michigan and start diving into next week’s top-10 matchup with the Buckeyes. The Irish had nearly 600 yards of offense and Sam Hartman threw three touchdowns on the way to a 4-0 start for Notre Dame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, September 14, 2023
Notre Dame passed its first test of the 2023 season with a convincing win at NC State and now Matt & Pete return to preview the Central Michigan game as well as catch up with Irish radio voice Paul Burmeister. Plus, early thoughts on the matchup against Ohio State and what the Independent has in store for the biggest game of the season to date. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, September 10, 2023
Pete and Matt recap Notre Dame’s 45-24 win at NC State, as the 3-0 Irish take another step forward in their first real test of the season. Audric Estme had an 80-yard touchdown run after the weather delay and Sam Hartman threw four touchdowns for Notre Dame's 29th straight regular season win against an ACC team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thu, September 07, 2023
Following a 2-0 start for the Irish, Matt & Pete return to preview the matchup with NC State on Saturday as well as catch up with Roddy Jones to discuss the ever-expanding ACC. Find out what to expect from the Wolfpack, predictions, and how a victory could setup Notre Dame for a memorable matchup in South Bend later this month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, September 03, 2023
Matt and Pete recap Notre Dame’s 56-3 win over Tennessee State, as the Irish improve to 2-0 and Sam Hartman continues to look like a star QB. Sam Hartman passed for 194 yards and two touchdowns and the defense kept its early season success going by holding their second consecutive opponent without a touchdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, August 30, 2023
With Week Zero in the books, Matt & Pete return to preview the second week of the Notre Dame Fall campaign. Pete catches up with Irish legend Joe Montana in Dublin to talk about his deal with Guinness as well as his connection to the program over the years. Plus, Ryan Harris joins to discuss broadcast travel logistics and his early reaction to the win over Navy. Then things wrap up with a preview of Tennessee State ahead of Saturday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sun, August 27, 2023
Matt & Pete breakdown the Notre Dame victory over Navy, 42-3, to start the 2023 season. How does Sam Hartman's performance raise the ceiling for the Irish this Fall? Who stepped up in Week 0 and Pete shares his most memorable experiences from his time in Dublin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wed, August 23, 2023
Pete Sampson and Matt Fortuna are back with their new podcast, The Independent. The debut show previews the 2023 Notre Dame season and welcomes Bruce Feldman (32:17) to talk about Marcus Freeman’s program’s rise up his Freaks List. Plus, reaction to Freeman’s weekly press conference (12:50), final record predictions (54:34) and why Notre Dame could surprise. Welcome back, dear listeners, let’s get ready for a most interesting Notre Dame football season with Pete, Matt and The Independent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Trailer · Mon, August 21, 2023
Pete Sampson of the Athletic and Matt Fortuna of The Inside Zone are back to take you inside the Notre Dame program. With a combined 35 years + of experience on the ND beat, this twice weekly podcast has you covered for everything blue and gold. Subscribe now to the essential Notre Dame podcast for Fighting Irish football fans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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