The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have faced a challenging 24 hours, having suffered a loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the National Championship Game in Atlanta on Monday night. To compound their troubles, the Irish may have lost a key assistant coach to the National Football League the following day.
Defensive coordinator Al Golden is not only a candidate for the Cincinnati Bengals’ open defensive coordinator position, but the team is also set to interview him. The Bengals recently parted ways with Lou Amarunso after missing the NFL Playoffs, prompting them to seek a replacement. Golden is a familiar name for the organization, and according to On3’s Pete Nakos, he is poised to become the next defensive coordinator for the Bengals.
Prior to his tenure at Notre Dame, Golden worked with the Bengals as their linebackers coach from 2020 to 2021. He joined the Fighting Irish staff in the same role before stepping up to become the defensive coordinator this past season. Under his guidance, Notre Dame ranked in the Top 5 in various defensive categories, allowing the fewest passing yards per game in the FBS this season, showcasing their swift improvement.
Golden’s defense was fierce, making a significant impression during the playoffs, with talent spread across the field. Both the Bengals and the Irish look to move forward from their recent setbacks. While Notre Dame has made strides and achieved more than in previous seasons, they still seek that elusive national championship, which is tough to swallow in a playoff scenario.
If Golden departs, the Irish will need to re-strategize and reload, with plenty of reactions emerging regarding the potential coaching shakeup.
For the love of god give me 24 hours https://t.co/piopdL8qaP
— Matt (@mnewton5) January 22, 2025
Will be missed. Wouldn’t hate it if the interview goes poorly and he comes back https://t.co/NFhfyh050t
— Joe Holt (@joeholt4444) January 22, 2025
Looks increasingly likely that Notre Dame will need a new defensive coordinator. During his three-year run, Al Golden turned the Irish into one of the most feared defenses in college football. https://t.co/hHRkKcLZUB
— Jack Soble (@jacksoble56) January 22, 2025
Mike Mickens, my good sir you are the next DC ☘️ https://t.co/EsymhxkMdn
— colin journey (@ColinJourney) January 22, 2025
