BYU Upsets Notre Dame in Thrilling Finish

Notre Dame’s 10.5-point road favorite status vanished in a stunning 28-24 upset at LaVell Edwards Stadium, as No. 8 BYU snapped a 22-year winless streak against the Irish ^[1]. The Cougars improved to 6-0, their third consecutive season starting undefeated, after a dramatic finish that saw Bear Bachmeier lead the game-winning drive ^[2].

Bachmeier threw for 224 yards and three touchdowns, including a go-ahead 6-yard catch by Walker Lyons with 1:47 remaining. He also ran for two scores and caught one, showcasing his dual-threat prowess ^[2]. The Irish, despite entering as favorites, struggled to contain the Cougars’ balanced attack, especially after star running back LJ Martin was ruled out due to injury ^[1].

Notre Dame’s CJ Carr led a late rally, driving the Irish to the BYU 9-yard line with four seconds left. His final pass was incomplete in the end zone, according to ESPN ^[2]. The Irish had cut an 11-point halftime deficit to five in the fourth quarter, scoring field goals after a muffed punt return and a failed fake punt, with Jonaz Walton scoring on a 3-yard touchdown run.

BYU’s defense, ranked ninth in the nation in yards and points allowed, held firm when it mattered most. After intercepting a pass at the Notre Dame 15 with 8:05 left, the Cougars forced a three-and-out, setting up Bachmeier’s game-winning drive ^[2].

The victory marks the first time since 2004 that BYU has beaten Notre Dame, and it comes despite the Irish being considered a top-tier offensive force with elite efficiency in yards per play and points per drive ^[1]. The Cougars’ defense, though untested against elite offenses, delivered under pressure.

What happens next? The Irish fall to 6-1, while BYU remains undefeated and ascends in the national rankings, with a clear path to a New Year’s Six bowl. The story was first reported by New York Post and ESPN.