BYU secured a 28-24 victory over Notre Dame on Oct. 17, 2026, aided by unexpected contributions from depth players and returning starters. According to a Oct. 18 report by the Daily Herald, several defensive players provided critical support to secure the win.
Linebacker Isaiah Glasker returned to the Cougar depth chart for the Oct. 17 matchup after leaving the TCU game two weeks prior with what appeared to be a severe injury. Despite the injury, Glasker recorded six tackles and six pass deflections. BYU coach Kalani Sitake noted that Glasker's return was a pleasant surprise because the team had anticipated he would be out for a number of weeks.
Safety Raider Damuni also returned to action for the Oct. 17 game after being sidelined for six weeks due to an apparent lower leg injury. Damuni, who last played during the opening week win over Utah Tech, contributed seven total tackles and one defended pass. Damuni stated that the training staff helped him set the goal to return for this specific game.
The defensive unit also relied on depth when injuries forced substitutions during the game. Cornerback Matthias Leach, a sophomore from Fort Worth, Texas, entered the game in the third quarter to replace Jayven Williams and Therrian Alexander. Leach was assigned to defend Notre Dame receiver Jordan Faison. Freshman cornerback Jordyn Criss also saw playing time while Alexander and Williams were sidelined.
Coach Sitake credited the team's depth and the readiness of backup players during the win. He noted that many players who did not play during the game remained prepared and supported their teammates. Damuni praised Leach and Criss for their performance, stating they locked up their assignments and made hits.
