BYU has jumped to No. 2 in the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll following a historic 28-24 victory over No. 2 Notre Dame on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. The win at LaVell Edwards Stadium marks the Cougars' highest ranking since their 1984 national championship season, occurring amidst a week of significant upsets across the nation.
A Historic Victory in Provo
The victory over the Fighting Irish represents one of the most significant wins in BYU program history. According to BYU Athletics, the win is the highest-ranked opponent the Cougars have defeated since knocking off No. 1 Miami in 1990. The game, which began with ESPN's College GameDay and concluded under ABC primetime coverage, was decided on the final play with a defensive stop that secured the win.
Bachmeier's Milestone Performance
Sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier led the BYU offense with both his legs and his arm. Bachmeier completed 23 of 36 pass attempts for 224 yards and one touchdown, a fourth-quarter score to tight end Walker Lyons that reclaimed the lead for the Cougars. Bachmeier also rushed for 45 yards and two touchdowns, including a score on a designed quarterback run.
With his performance, Bachmeier became the first FBS player in 30 years to record a rushing touchdown, a passing touchdown, and a receiving touchdown against an AP Top-5 team in a single game. He is also the first Cougar to achieve that specific statistical feat in any game since Steve Young during the 1983 Holiday Bowl.
Defensive Stand Secures Win
The BYU defense was instrumental in the win, led by linebacker Cade Uluave who recorded nine tackles. Safety Raider Damuni, playing in his first game since the season opener against Utah Tech, contributed seven tackles. The secondary held Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr to a 55% completion rate and prevented any passing touchdowns.
Chaos in the Rankings
The rise of BYU comes during what CBS Sports described as a chaotic week for college football rankings. The week saw five of the top seven teams lose, a first in the 90-year history of the AP poll.
While BYU surged to No. 2, Miami has moved to No. 1 for the first time since 2002 after surviving double overtime against Florida State. Ohio State also remains in the top three following a victory over Indiana.
Ranking Shifts and Poll Details
BYU entered the matchup as a 10.5-point underdog but maintained a perfect 6-0 record following the win. The Cougars received 20 first-place votes in the latest poll, trailing Miami's 40 votes.
Other notable shifts in the rankings include Alabama dropping to No. 13 and Texas falling to No. 19. The top 25 saw a wholesale shakeup, with every single spot containing a new team this week.
Coaching Reaction
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake expressed satisfaction with the performance despite noting some mistakes.
"I have to give a lot of credit to Notre Dame for taking this game and being out here in Provo," Sitake said. "The spotlight was on this game and on our guys, and I thought our guys embraced the opportunity."
Game Summary Details
The Cougars' victory concludes a high-stakes primetime matchup that saw significant momentum shifts throughout the game, including a first-quarter touchdown by BYU and a field goal by Notre Dame.
