BYU Upsets No. 2 Notre Dame, Snapping 16-Game Winning Streak
The Cougars secured a dramatic 28-24 victory, marked by late-game controversies and a significant shake-up in the college football landscape.
No. 8 BYU delivered a stunning 28-24 upset over No. 2 Notre Dame on Saturday, ending the Fighting Irish's 16-game winning streak and significantly impacting the national rankings and College Football Playoff picture.
BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier was instrumental in the victory, accounting for three touchdowns. The Cougars took an early lead with Bachmeier scoring on the ground. Notre Dame responded with a field goal and a touchdown run from Nolan James Jr. in the second quarter, but BYU regained the advantage with another touchdown run by Bachmeier and a trick play that also saw him find the end zone.
Late in the first half, Notre Dame's hopes of cutting into the lead were dashed when quarterback CJ Carr's attempt to spike the ball near the BYU goal line was ruled a fumble upon review, leaving points on the field and preserving BYU's 21-10 advantage at halftime.
BYU extended its lead in the second half before Notre Dame battled back. With under two minutes remaining in regulation, Bachmeier connected with tight end Walker Lyons for a passing touchdown, giving BYU a four-point lead. The Irish managed to convert a crucial fourth down to stay alive, but ultimately faced fourth-and-five with ten seconds left on the clock. They converted to set up a final play.
The game concluded amidst some controversy, with social media users debating calls in the final moments. The outcome marked Notre Dame's first loss in 16 games and is expected to create significant movement in the rankings.
Following the upset, Notre Dame will have a bye week before facing Navy, while BYU prepares to play UCF.