Desmond Howard is known to make some bold predictions on the set of ESPN’s College GameDay. At least, “bold” is one word for it, though those picks don’t always come to fruition.

As a matter of fact, Howard was specifically picking against Notre Dame regularly during the 2024 season. That fact was not lost on then Fighting Irish defensive coordinator Al Golden who is now headed back to the NFL to work for the Cincinnati Bengals.

But before Golden officially re-enters the NFL, he picked up some collegiate hardware on Thursday night. He officially received the Broyles Award as the nation’s top assistant coach, and Golden had a word of thanks for Howard.

“Des, thanks for picking against us 6 times this year,” cracked Golden as the room erupted in laughter. “We won 14 games and he picked against us 6 times. It’s unbelievable!”

 

While it never feels good to be doubted, it’s hard for Golden, Marcus Freeman or the Fighting Irish to complain about the results! Notre Dame couldn’t complete the run to the national title but made it all the way to the national championship game before losing to Ohio State.

Howard didn’t necessarily fuel that run, but Notre Dame definitely made the broadcaster look silly on more than a few occasions in 2024.