As the 2024 college football season concluded, Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock found himself experiencing a mix of pride and frustration. On one hand, he was pleased with how the team finished strong, showing resilience and determination down the stretch. On the other hand, one thing continued to bother him, preventing him from fully embracing the season’s ending.
Denbrock, known for his high standards and relentless pursuit of excellence, has never been one to settle. His return to Notre Dame’s coaching staff was marked by a clear mission—to elevate the Fighting Irish offense to new heights and put the program in the best position to compete for national championships. While the progress was evident, Denbrock saw areas where the team fell short, and it’s something that continues to drive him heading into the next season.
A Strong Finish, But Not Enough
Notre Dame finished the 2024 season on a high note, securing key wins and demonstrating the kind of grit and toughness that fans have come to expect from the program. Their ability to adjust and improve after midseason struggles was commendable, and Denbrock played a significant role in shaping the offense’s identity.
However, one issue loomed large in Denbrock’s mind—the team’s performance in crucial moments, particularly against elite competition. While the offense was explosive at times, there were instances where execution faltered, especially in tight games that could have changed the course of the season.
“We did a lot of great things,” Denbrock admitted in a recent interview. “I loved how our guys battled, how they stayed together, and how they finished. But at the end of the day, we left some plays on the field, and that’s what keeps me up at night.”
His dissatisfaction is rooted in a deep desire for perfection—not just from himself but from his players and coaching staff. He knows that for Notre Dame to take the next step, they must be sharper, more disciplined, and more efficient in key moments.
The Offensive Struggles That Still Linger
One of the most frustrating aspects for Denbrock was Notre Dame’s offensive inconsistencies, particularly in the red zone. While the team moved the ball well between the 20s, converting those drives into touchdowns remained an issue in several games.
Red zone efficiency was a topic of concern throughout the year. In close matchups, failing to finish drives with six points instead of three often made the difference. Against top-tier defenses, the Fighting Irish struggled to find the end zone when it mattered most.
“I think about those possessions where we had opportunities to separate ourselves from the opponent,” Denbrock said. “We settled for field goals when we should have punched it in. That’s not who we want to be.”
Additionally, quarterback play and offensive line consistency were areas that left room for improvement. While there were bright spots—such as strong performances from the running game and the emergence of key playmakers—the unit as a whole lacked the kind of rhythm that Denbrock expects from a championship-caliber offense.
Tough Losses That Still Sting
While Notre Dame had its share of big wins, the losses still sting. Denbrock and the coaching staff have spent countless hours dissecting film, identifying where things went wrong in critical games.
One of the most frustrating aspects for Denbrock was how Notre Dame struggled in games where execution was paramount. Against teams with elite defenses, the offense occasionally sputtered, failing to sustain drives and keep the pressure on opponents.
“We want to be a team that dictates the tempo, controls the game, and forces the opponent to play on our terms,” Denbrock explained. “When we didn’t do that, it cost us.”
For Denbrock, those moments serve as fuel for the upcoming season. He understands that if Notre Dame is going to break through as a national title contender, those small lapses need to be eliminated.
What’s Next for Notre Dame?
Despite his frustrations, Denbrock remains optimistic about what’s ahead for Notre Dame football. He sees the potential in the roster, the talent in the locker room, and the opportunity to build on last season’s successes while learning from the shortcomings.
One of the biggest priorities for the offseason is developing more offensive consistency. That means fine-tuning the passing game, ensuring the offensive line remains dominant, and instilling the kind of mental toughness that allows the team to execute flawlessly in high-pressure situations.
Recruiting has also been a major focus. Denbrock and the Notre Dame staff have worked tirelessly to bring in elite talentthat fits the program’s system. The goal is to stack talent on top of talent, ensuring that the Fighting Irish can compete at the highest level for years to come.
“The guys we have coming in are going to make an impact,” Denbrock said. “But it’s not just about bringing in talent—it’s about developing it the right way. We have to keep raising the standard.”
A Championship Mindset
Denbrock’s dissatisfaction isn’t about negativity—it’s about setting an expectation of greatness. He refuses to let the team settle for anything less than elite performance, and his relentless pursuit of improvement is what makes him such a respected coach.
“We’re never going to be satisfied,” Denbrock stated. “Even if we win a national championship, we’re going to find ways to get better. That’s the mindset we have to have.”
As Notre Dame prepares for the 2025 season, Denbrock’s message to the team is clear: finishing strong isn’t enough—dominance from start to finish is the expectation.
The 6’8” forward averaged 11.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and a team-high 1.6 steals following..