BYU football secured a 28-24 victory over Notre Dame at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, according to a report published October 18.
Football beat reporter Brandon Gurney provided grades for every position group and coaching staff following the win against the Irish.
Sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier received an A- grade after rushing for 45 yards and two touchdowns. Bachmeier completed 23 of 36 passes for 224 yards and a touchdown, including a 6-yard score to Walker Lyons that served as the game-winning touchdown. Bachmeier was noted as being the best quarterback on the field during the matchup against Notre Dame's CJ Carr.
The offensive line earned a B+, with freshman Bott Mulitalo receiving the highest grade among the linemen. The group protected Bachmeier from the Notre Dame secondary and created running lanes for portions of the game. The running back group earned a B, led by Preston Rex who recorded 66 rushing yards on 10 carries. Freshman Journee Tonga provided pass protection during limited reps.
The receivers and tight ends were graded an A. Walker Lyons provided offensive punch and caught the game-winning touchdown, while Legend Glasker and Kyler Kasper also delivered critical plays. Jojo Phillips was noted for two significant third-down conversions late in the game.
Defensively, the linebackers received a B. Isaiah Glasker, returning sooner than anticipated, finished with four tackles and three pass knockdowns. Cade Uluave also made a significant impact. The safeties and cornerbacks earned a B+, with Raider Damuni and Faletau Satuala noted for their impact. Mathias Leach filled in for the injured Jayven Williams late in the game.
Special teams received a D grade due to a nearly disastrous fake punt decision and a muffed punt by returner Cannon DeVries. Punter Fuller Shurtz was the lone positive mark for the unit, pinning Notre Dame inside the 20-yard line twice.
The coaching staff received a B-. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick was noted for a nearly perfect first half and a flawless final possession, though he became conservative in the third quarter. Defensive coach Kelly Poppinga was credited with mixing coverages to disrupt the Notre Dame passing attack.
