THE ECHOES: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish

By Jessica Smetana, Mike Golic Jr.Sports News Sports News Football

THE ECHOES: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish episodes

January 13 Notre Dame’s Transfer Portal Is ON FIRE! CFP Preview, Are We Cheering or Rooting Against Indiana?
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana kick things off with Notre Dame’s transfer portal suddenly heating up.
After a slow start to portal season, Marcus Freeman and the Irish made a major splash, adding a handful of high-impact transfers to the 2026 roster. Mike and Jessica break down who’s coming to South Bend, who’s heading out, and what it all means for Notre Dame football moving forward.
Later, the conversation turns emotional as Jessica refuses to watch the now-viral clip of Notre Dame being snubbed by the College Football Playoff, featured on Here Come the Irish on Peacock. Mike steps in to describe the moment and relive what many fans are calling the worst day of 2025 for Irish football. Have you seen the clip? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Once the tears are wiped away, the show shifts to the National Championship matchup. Notre Dame fans find themselves in a familiar moral dilemma as the Indiana Hoosiers—heavy favorites—take on the Miami Hurricanes. With regional pride and recent history at play, Mike and Jessica discuss who Irish fans can realistically root for, if anyone at all.
The debate continues with a deep dive into potential College Football Playoff expansion. With 16- and 24-team formats on the table, Jessica makes the case for why a 16-team playoff could be the sweet spot—and how Notre Dame would benefit most.
To wrap things up, the focus shifts to the hardwood as Notre Dame Women’s Basketball pulls off a huge upset win over ranked North Carolina. It’s been an up-and-down season, but beating a rival is always worth celebrating.
Drop a comment and let us know who you’re rooting for in the Natty—and how many teams you want in the next CFP.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Subscribe to The Echoes for weekly Notre Dame recaps, CFP reactions, game previews, and insider analysis all season long.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
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54 min
January 06 Notre Dame Portal Season Begins! Salute to Harrison Smith & Riley Leonard, Shrewsberry Meltdown
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana open the show with a mix of NFL news and Irish pride.
The conversation starts with Riley Leonard outperforming Hall of Fame quarterback Philip Rivers, followed by a salute to Harrison Smith’s outstanding 14-year NFL career—and a look ahead to what could eventually be a call to Canton.
After spotlighting two Irish legends, Mike and Jessica catch you up on everything that’s happened this offseason in South Bend. The Irish welcome new defensive line coach Charlie Partridge, who arrives from the Indianapolis Colts.
The discussion then shifts to departures, as offensive linemen Billy Schrauth and Aamil Wagner leave Notre Dame for the NFL. Mike and Jess break down what both players meant to the program and wish them success at the next level.
Later in the episode, the focus turns to the transfer portal. While Notre Dame is expected to be active, it’s been a relatively slow start so far. Mike and Jessica explain why they believe portal movement will heat up soon and discuss who could be coming in, who could be heading out, and what it all means for the Irish moving forward.
Unfortunately, the conversation then shifts to Notre Dame men’s basketball, where head coach Micah Shrewsberry made headlines after an emotional meltdown during a game at California. Shrewsberry was furious over a late call that may have cost the Irish a crucial conference road win, ultimately earning a reprimand from the ACC. Mike and Jessica discuss the incident and why Notre Dame basketball needs to find different reasons to be in the spotlight.
To close the show, Mike and Jessica react to Jordan Faison’s decision to end his decorated lacrosse career in order to focus fully on football—a bittersweet moment, especially for Mike, the biggest Notre Dame men’s lacrosse fan we know. The episode wraps with Notre Dame New Year’s resolutions from both hosts. Hit the comments and let us know your resolutions for the Irish.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Subscribe to The Echoes for weekly Notre Dame recaps, CFP reactions, game previews, and insider analysis all season long.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
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57 min
December 30, 2025 Marcus Freeman Is Back at Notre Dame! USC’s Baffling Decision, Pop-Tarts Bowl & Malört
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana react to breaking news once again, as Marcus Freeman announces he will return as head coach of the Irish next season.
It’s a major sigh of relief for Mike and Jess, as Freeman continues to draw consistent NFL interest. This season, that buzz included the New York Giants and Tennessee Titans, following last year’s rumors involving the Chicago Bears. Thankfully for Notre Dame fans, Freeman will be back on the sidelines in South Bend.
After breaking down Freeman’s contract extension better than anyone, Mike and Jessica recap their holiday weekends. Mike shares his experience at the world-famous Pop-Tarts Bowl, while Jessica fulfills her long-standing Malört cocktail obligation—with a surprisingly unexpected outcome.
The conversation then shifts to Notre Dame’s MOU with the College Football Playoff and USC’s reported confusion surrounding the agreement, which appears to be a key factor in putting the century-old rivalry on hiatus. Mike and Jess react to USC’s puzzling response and what it means moving forward.
Later, the show highlights former Irish standouts in the NFL, including Audric Estime and Kevin Austin, who both found the end zone for the New Orleans Saints last weekend. The episode also celebrates Notre Dame players who earned Pro Bowl selections this season.
Finally, the show wraps up with a preview of this week’s four CFP games and a discussion on Notre Dame men’s basketball head coach Micah Shrewsberry canceling Christmas?!
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Subscribe to The Echoes for weekly Notre Dame recaps, CFP reactions, game previews, and insider analysis all season long.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
Join Team Tendy’s and enjoy a line-up like never before. Crispy. Juicy. Tendys Now at Wendy’s.
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55 min
December 23, 2025 End of an Era? Notre Dame–USC Rivalry on Hiatus + Marcus Freeman NFL Rumors | The Echoes
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana react to breaking news surrounding one of college football’s most iconic rivalries: Notre Dame–USC is officially on hiatus.
Stick with us through the opening minutes as the breaking news hit mid-show and Mike and Jess process the stunning development and what it means for Notre Dame and the sport at large.
Before diving into the rivalry news, the show opens with a breakdown of the College Football Playoff — and yes, there’s still plenty of frustration over the Irish being left out by the committee.
Then it’s on to the big story of the day: the end of the Notre Dame–USC rivalry… for now. Why is this happening? Who’s responsible? And who will Notre Dame schedule in USC’s place? Mike and Jess tackle all of it, including Notre Dame’s newly announced matchup with BYU.
The conversation also turns to Marcus Freeman and growing speculation about his future. Should Irish fans be concerned about potential NFL interest, including rumors tied to the New York Giants? Golic shares his perspective, while Jess explains why chaos has become the norm in modern college football.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Subscribe to The Echoes for weekly Notre Dame recaps, CFP reactions, game previews, and insider analysis all season long.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
Join Team Tendy’s and enjoy a line-up like never before. Crispy. Juicy. Tendys Now at Wendy’s.
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45 min
December 16, 2025 Notre Dame Award Season: Jeremiyah Love Wins Doak Walker, Looking Ahead to 2026, CJ Carr Heisman
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana begin turning the page toward 2026 while looking back at Notre Dame’s biggest award winners from the 2025 season.
Jeremiyah Love spent the weekend in New York City attending the Heisman Trophy ceremony. While he did not take home college football’s top honor, Love made history by winning the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s best running back, the first Notre Dame RB to ever receive the prestigious award.
Head coach Marcus Freeman was also in attendance, marking his first public appearance since Notre Dame’s College Football Playoff snub. What does the future hold for Love and Freeman in South Bend? Mike and Jess break it all down.
Speaking of snubs, Notre Dame defensive back Leonard Moore shut down the nation’s top wide receiver, Makai Lemon, yet was passed over for the award as the country’s best defensive back. Mike and Jess explain why Moore deserved to win and how he was overlooked.
While the Irish may have deserved more hardware, both Love and Moore earned All-American honors, and we celebrate their standout seasons.
From there, the conversation shifts toward the future of Notre Dame football. While roster decisions are still unfolding, Mike and Jess preview what the 2026 team could look like, potentially led by Heisman favorite CJ Carr.
The show also includes a full basketball update, starting with the reveal of Notre Dame’s new basketball leprechaun logo. Sound off in the comments and let us know what you think and which Notre Dame leprechaun is your favorite.
Micah Shrewsberry’s men’s team is off to a strong start despite injuries to star guard Markus Burton. Freshman standout Jalen Haralson has stepped up, and the Irish also welcomed DB Mark Zackery to the roster. Could this be a March Madness team?
We also check in on the women’s program, which is navigating injuries but trending in the right direction. Hannah Hidalgo continues to shine as one of the best players in America as conference play approaches.
As the football offseason begins, we remind you that The Echoes will still be in your feed every week. Football may be over, but the content never stops, so make sure you’re subscribed.
Finally, we cover offseason movement within the program, including linebackers coach Max Bullough departing for Michigan State and quarterback Kenny Minchey entering the transfer portal. Mike and Jess discuss what Minchey’s departure means for Notre Dame’s QB depth and who they’d like to see backing up CJ Carr next season.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
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59 min
December 09, 2025 Notre Dame AD Pete Bevacqua Joins the Show to Discuss ND's CFP Snub and Opting Out of the Postseason
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana are joined by Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua to break down the Irish’s College Football Playoff snub and the decision to opt out of the postseason.
Bevacqua shares his frustrations and lingering confusion with the CFP process, explaining why Notre Dame still hasn’t received clear answers days after the decision. He details why he believes the Irish earned a spot in the playoff, why other selections left him puzzled, and how Notre Dame continues to show respect for the universities that did make the field. He also opens up about the ACC’s role in the process and why he felt the conference worked against its relationship with Notre Dame.
Pete also provides a promising update on the USC rivalry game and offers insight into where Marcus Freeman stands as the program’s head coach.
Later, Mike and Jess continue the conversation with their own reactions to the CFP snub, questioning the purpose of the weekly rankings show and why projections, betting markets, and ESPN models consistently placed Notre Dame in the playoff, only for the Irish to be left out. They also dive into Notre Dame’s choice to decline a postseason bowl after the CFP decision.
In the comments, let us know: Was opting out the right call?
Finally, the crew discusses the future of superstar running back Jeremiyah Love. If this is the end of his Notre Dame career, it’s a shame it concluded quietly in a late-night game at Stanford. Should Love return, or declare for the NFL Draft? Drop your thoughts below.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
#sports #football #notredame #collegefootballplayoff
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
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1 hr 2 min
December 02, 2025 Jeremiyah Love Joins the Show! Heisman Hopes, His Health and Future at Notre Dame | The Echoes
On the latest episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana are joined by superstar running back and Heisman hopeful Jeremiyah Love — our first returning guest!
We open with a breakdown of Notre Dame’s 10th straight win, all by double digits. As most of the nation slept through the final game of the weekend, the Irish once again rolled, securing their sixth Legends Trophy in the last seven meetings with Stanford.
Then we welcome one of the greatest running backs in Notre Dame history: Jeremiyah Love. He stops by for the second time during a hectic stretch in his Heisman campaign. We dive into his brief injury scare last game, his reaction to breaking Jerome Bettis’ single-season touchdown record, the highs and lows of the season, what winning the Heisman would mean to him, his future in South Bend, and — of course — who’s making questionable Thanksgiving decisions at the dinner table.
After our conversation with Love, Mike and Jessica examine the College Football Playoff picture. Do Miami and Texas have a real path to the playoff? Could the ACC be left out entirely? Drop your thoughts in the comments — who’s in and who’s out?
We close with a look at the ongoing CFB coaching carousel, including Lane Kiffin’s expected move to LSU and Pat Fitzgerald’s return to college football at Michigan State.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
#sports #football #notredame #bigten
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
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1 hr 3 min
November 24, 2025 Jadarian Price Joins the Show! Love 4 Heisman, Syracuse Smashed, Stanford Next, Happy Thanksgiving!
On this week’s episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana break down Notre Dame’s 70–7 Senior Day demolition of Syracuse, and star running back Jadarian Price joins the show!
It was a record-setting performance for the Irish, who exploded for 35 first-quarter points and never looked back. Mike and Jessica relive their favorite moments from the blowout — and Price shares his as well.
As this may have been the final home game for superstar RB Jeremiyah Love, the hosts continue their Love for Heisman campaign and lay out the case for why he should be the frontrunner for college football’s top award.
In tougher news, Notre Dame lost friend of the pod Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa to a season-ending injury. Mike and Jess reflect on KVA’s impact and what he’s meant to the Irish this year.
Then, Jadarian Price joins the show to talk about the wild weekend win, the team’s Thanksgiving plans, and the upcoming trip to the Bay Area to take on Stanford. He also shares his Thanksgiving food preferences — and exposes some questionable choices in the running backs room 👀
Finally, the crew previews Notre Dame vs. Stanford, the 38th meeting in the rivalry and battle for the Legends Trophy. Drop your score predictions in the comments!
Plus: a look at the dramatic Notre Dame women’s basketball win over USC, a tough ending for ND women’s soccer, and postseason heartbreak for ND rugby.
Mike and Jess close the show by wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and sharing what they’re thankful for — Notre Dame style.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
#sports #football #notredame #bigten
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55 min
November 18, 2025 Tae Johnson Joins the Show! Notre Dame pounds Pitt, Senior Day Up Next, Hannah Hidalgo Did what??
On this week’s episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana break down Notre Dame’s eighth straight win, a dominant 37–15 victory over No. 22 Pitt. They’re also joined by superstar defensive back Tae Johnson!
In the 74th meeting between the Irish and Panthers, Notre Dame’s defense delivered yet another stellar performance. Johnson snagged his team-high fourth interception of the season and took it back for a pick-6.
Tae tells us all about the play, Adon Shuler’s pick-2, what it’s like playing for Marcus Freeman, what he’s learned from his mentors, and what to expect from the Irish the rest of the season, before heading off to Portuguese class.
Shoutout to Malachi Fields, last week’s guest, who hauled in two incredible catches and is emerging as Notre Dame’s top wideout as well. Also on offense, Jeremiyah Love continues to run his way into the Heisman race and into the hearts of Irish fans everywhere.
Jessica was in Pittsburgh for the game and gives a first-hand account of how the Irish dismantled Pat Narduzzi’s team. Mike and Jess also react to Narduzzi’s comments from earlier in the week—maybe he should’ve taken the matchup a bit more seriously or was it all overblown?
In the final block, Mike and Jess preview Senior Day in South Bend as the Irish host Syracuse. ND legend Steve Angeli won’t suit up for the Orange due to injury, but Mike shares some of his favorite Senior Day memories. Also, Mike is done with the USC-ND rivalry drama and wants to move on at this point.
Plus, updates from around Notre Dame athletics: the rugby team clinched a Big Ten title, and Hannah Hidalgo delivered a jaw-dropping performance worthy of national attention.
All that and more on The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
#sports #football #notredame #bigten
Thank you to our sponsor: Wendy's
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59 min
November 11, 2025 Pete Buttigieg Joins The Echoes! ND Star WR Malachi Fields + Navy Recap & Pitt Preview | The Echoes
On this week’s episode of The Echoes: A Podcast on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Mike Golic Jr. and Jessica Smetana are joined by former South Bend Mayor and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, plus star wide receiver Malachi Fields.
Mike and Jess kick things off by breaking down Notre Dame’s dominant 49–10 win over Navy — the team’s seventh straight victory — and preview this weekend’s tricky matchup against Pitt. Despite what head coach Pat Narduzzi says, it’s a big one, and ESPN’s College GameDay will be in town for it.
Then, Mayor Pete joins the show to talk all things Notre Dame and South Bend. He shares his thoughts on Marcus Freeman, his favorite moments inside Notre Dame Stadium, and how the relationship between the city and the university has evolved over the years.
Later, Malachi Fields stops by to discuss his unique perspective as a Virginia standout facing Notre Dame, what it’s like being in the opposing locker room, and how he handled playing in his first-ever snow game.
Finally, Mike and Jess close things out by looking ahead to the rivalry matchup against Pitt — a game that always brings memories (and a few nightmares) for Golic. Plus, it’s a big week for both men’s and women’s basketball teams this week with two heavyweight matchups.
Go Irish ☘️☘️ #sports #football #mayorpete #petebuttigieg
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1 hr