Don't fret, Irish fans. Marcus Freeman is still your coach. But that won't stop other organizations from seeking his counsel and leadership.

Even with the new two-minute timeout, Northern Illinois was able to drain nearly 5 ½ minutes off the clock before kicking off with 31 seconds to play.

The injury bug bit Notre Dame in a big way Saturday. The latest regarding Fighting Irish health after beatdown of Purdue.

Sep 14, 2024; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish wide receiver Jaden Greathouse (1) pushes Purdue Boilermakers defensive back Ayden Murray (44) out of the way during a run in the second quarter at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images

Notre Dame defensive end Bryce Young (son of Bryant) and safety Kennedy Urlacher (Brian’s son) each played north of 20 defensive snaps at Purdue.

Marcus Freeman told the media on Monday that they intend on starting the transfer, and on Thursday, he updated everyone on his initial thoughts. It does look like Leonard will get the starting nod this week, as Freeman said his quarterback has made some “really good” decisions during this week’s prep for Purdue.

Marcus Freeman drew many verbal arrows last week but deserves a lot of praise after Notre Dame dominated Purdue.

Notre Dame football coach Marcus Freeman on the difference in his team's mindset between Northern Illinois week and Saturday's 66-7 blowout of Purdue

Notre Dame coach. former Purdue defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman on whether he relished smashing his former team.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman high-fives Notre Dame Fighting Irish wide receiver Kris Mitchell (10) Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, during the NCAA football game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Ind. / Alex Martin/Journal and Courier / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images