No. 2 Notre Dame falls 28-24 to No. 8 BYU as a dramatic final play ends their historic 16-game winning streak.
In a thrilling college football showdown on Saturday night, the No. 2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish narrowly lost to the No. 8 BYU Cougars by a final score of 28-24 at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
Head coach Marcus Freeman saw his squad fall to a 6-1 record, bringing an official end to a dominant 16-game win streak that dated back to the previous season, according to information published by bleache.
The dramatic contest concluded when a potential go-ahead touchdown pass into the end zone by quarterback CJ Carr fell incomplete on the final play of the fourth quarter.
How BYU Built an Early Lead Against Notre Dame
The Cougars established an early edge in the matchup, taking a 7-3 advantage at the end of the first quarter. Notre Dame responded near the start of the second when Nolan James Jr. rushed for an eight-yard touchdown.
BYU quickly answered by finding the end zone on each of their next two offensive drives to claim a 21-10 lead. Notre Dame threatened late in the half, but CJ Carr fumbled while attempting a spike, keeping the score at halftime.
Notre Dame Second Half Comeback and Lead Change
Mistakes plagued BYU in the third quarter, starting with a muffed punt that allowed Notre Dame to kick a field goal. Following a stopped fake punt, the Fighting Irish added another field goal to narrow the deficit to 21-16.
The offensive momentum continued as Jonaz Walton scored on a three-yard rushing touchdown, giving Notre Dame a brief lead. Although quarterback Bear Bachmeier threw an interception, the BYU defense forced a crucial punt.
The Dramatic Finish at LaVell Edwards Stadium
Bear Bachmeier rebounded by leading a 10-play, 55-yard drive that culminated in a short touchdown pass to Walker Lyons, putting the Cougars back on top by four points.
Notre Dame marched down to the BYU eight-yard line on their final possession, but time expired before they could punch in the winning score, sealing the 28-24 victory for the home team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Notre Dame vs BYU game?
No. 8 BYU defeated No. 2 Notre Dame by a final score of 28-24 at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday night.
How many games was Notre Dame's winning streak?
Head coach Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish had their 16-game winning streak snapped, bringing their record to 6-1.
Who scored the final game-winning touchdown for BYU?
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier led a crucial 55-yard drive ending with a short touchdown pass to Walker Lyons to secure the win.
