The Notre Dame football team is focusing on Ohio State for the next few days. But after that, it sounds like there might be a focus on who will be the defensive coordinator for the 2025 season.

Such is what happens when the program is one of the best in the country. It’s still not great that the Irish seem to be on the cusp of losing one of the best defensive coordinators to come through South Bend just as it looks like they’re getting ready to start a new run of dominance.

All of this comes about thanks to the way that Notre Dame football’s current defensive coordinator answered a question. And while his answer means that the Irish have his full attention until Monday, one has to think he’s moving on if the right offer comes along after that.

Notre Dame football on verge of losing Al Golden

Golden was asked on Saturday about the possibility of leaving the Irish for the Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator job. He didn’t exactly shoot it down. He only shot it down for the next few days.

“I think the biggest thing right now, it’s humbling that your name is mentioned because of the team success or the success of our defense. It’s a reflection of Mike Mickens, Max Bullough and Al Washington.”

“But at the end of the day, this is not the time or the place. This is about the kids. There’s always time to reflect on all of that after the season. The biggest thing for us right now is just understanding the enormity of this game.”

On the one hand, absolutely this isn’t when Golden should be thinking about his next job. He’s got a job in front of him. 

On the other, the “there’s always time to reflect” comment sure sounds like he might have a foot out the door once the season is over.

There’s nothing wrong with that. Golden has done a hell of a job as defensive coordinator. It’s his right to parlay that into a move up the totem pole. Taking another job is hardly something he’s shied away from either. It was clear he was talking to schools about head coaching jobs last year.

Notre Dame football just might have to brace for Golden to leave. So they better give him a heck fo a going away party and win the National Championship on Monday.