One of the most famous football coaches in Notre Dame's history was Knute Rockne. His college football win record was the best percentage for any college or pro football coach ever. After 13 years with Notre Dame his won-loss percentage was 90% at 105-12-5. His winning percentage was an astounding 86%. While at Notre Dame he led the Fighting Irish to 6 national championships and won the hearts of many Notre Dame fans. His winning titles were in 1919, 1920, 1924, 1927, 1929 and 1930. He also formed the T formation called the "Rockne Shift," which was very effective.

Another famous football coach for Notre Dame was Ara Parseghian, he coached for 1964-1974. Ara led Notre Dame to its first bowl game since Knute Rockne's days. They went to the Cotton Bowl in 1970, but they lost 21-17 to the Texas Longhorns, who went on to win the national championship of that year. Then turned around the following year (1971) and avenged their loss from the previous year by beating the Longhorns 24-11 in the Cotton Bowl.

Another famous coach at Notre Dame was Lou Holtz. He coached at the school from 1986-1996. While at Notre Dame he posted a 95-24-2 record. Lou Holtz was known as being a master of motivation, largely due to the fact he would implement harsh discipline when players let him down. In 1988 he was also named national Coach of the Year.