Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman struggled to contain his emotions as he celebrated the victory over Georgia with a tribute to the victims of the New Orleans terrorist attack.
The Fighting Irish reached the College Football Playoff semifinals with a 23-10 victory at Caesars Superdome, not far from where 14 people died on New Year's Eve.
“As we celebrate this great moment, I want to send our condolences to everyone affected in the city of New Orleans,” Freeman said.
Freeman also thanked Notre Dame fans who traveled to Louisiana for the game, which was delayed after the tragedy.
The coach's comments were echoed by quarterback Riley Leonard.
“It's been a very tough week and our thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected a couple of days ago,” he said. “We are praying for them.”
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