Lou Holtz Announces Decision On Attending National Title Game

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Lou Holtz Announces Decision On Attending National Title Game

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jan 15, 2025 4:45 PM ET

Nobody will have to wonder where Lou Holtz is during the National Championship Game.

Notre Dame is seeking its first national title since going undefeated under Holtz in 1988. The Fighting Irish will play the Ohio State Buckeyes at Mercedes-Benz Stadium next Monday night.

On Wednesday, members of The Pat McAfee Show asked if Holtz would travel to Atlanta for the big game. Producer Ty Schmit claimed the 88-year-old is dealing with leg issues.

Holtz responded to a clip of the conversation by confirming his attendance. He also took a shot at Ohio State's head coach in the process.

"If Notre Dame doesn't win, it's because we want to preserve Ryan Day's job," Holtz said. "I was originally going to be at the game in spirit, but now I'll be dragging my body along as well."

Holtz won 100 games during 11 seasons as Notre Dame's head coach. Only Brian Kelly has coached more games for the Fighting Irish.

Holtz witnessing a championship victory in person would make the moment even more special for Notre Dame's program. Of course, other fans are more interested in the drama surrounding him and Day.

Two years ago, Holtz drew Day's ire by questioning Ohio State's physical tenacity before a regular-season matchup against Notre Dame. An incensed Day called out Holtz in his post-game interview after the Buckeyes earned a last-second win over the Fighting Irish.

"I'd like to know where Lou Holtz is right now," Day declared after the 2023 victory. "What he said about our team, I cannot believe. This is a tough team right here. We're proud to be Ohio. It's always been Ohio against the world, and it'll continue to be Ohio against the world."

Day recently said he hasn't spoken to Holtz since that famous moment. Holtz told the Toledo Blade's David Briggs that he has no problem with Day, who's done a "tremendous job" coaching the Buckeyes.

"Nothing is further from the truth on that," Holtz said of having an issue with Day. "He's the one who exploded."

The National Championship Game starts Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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