A Monumental Victory in Provo
The No. 8 BYU Cougars secured a monumental 28-24 victory over No. 2 Notre Dame on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo. Sophomore quarterback Bear Bachmeier orchestrated the win by scoring three different ways, including a game-winning 6-yard touchdown pass to Walker Lyons with 1:53 remaining in the fourth quarter.
Historical Context and Impact
The victory marks the third time BYU has defeated Notre Dame, following previous wins in 1994 and 2004. This matchup was the first top-10 game ever played in Provo, and the win keeps BYU undefeated at 6-0. The result contributed to a chaotic Saturday for college football, as five of the top seven teams in the AP poll suffered losses.
According to Provo.com, the game featured high stakes and significant history, as Notre Dame arrived as the highest-ranked team to visit LaVell Edwards Stadium since No. 1 USC in 2004. The atmosphere was heightened by a visit from ESPN's College GameDay, which made its first Provo appearance since 2009.
Bachmeier's Three-Way Scoring
The game began with a controversial moment when Notre Dame defensive end Boubacar Traore hit Bear Bachmeier helmet-to-helmet. The play resulted in a targeting ejection for Traore and a 15-yard roughing-the-passer penalty. Bachmeier remained in the game and finished the opening drive with a 5-yard touchdown run.
Bachmeier's versatile performance included two rushing touchdowns and a passing touchdown. In addition to his ground scores, he completed a 15-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kyler Kasper in the second quarter. He finished the night completing 23 of 36 passes for 224 yards and one touchdown against the Irish secondary, while also rushing for 45 yards and two touchdowns.
Defensive Struggles and Successes
The Notre Dame offense, led by quarterback CJ Carr, struggled to maintain momentum despite a strong performance from their offensive line. The Irish defense held BYU without a passing touchdown, but the Cougars' defense managed to limit Notre Dame to 24 points.
Notre Dame's scoring was driven by field goals from Porath and a touchdown run by Jonaz Walton, who scored from 3 yards out and completed a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter to give the Irish a 24-21 lead. BYU's defense saw significant contributions from linebacker Isaiah Glasker, who returned sooner than anticipated to record four tackles and three pass knockdowns. Safety Raider Damuni also made a significant impact in run support and coverage following his return from injury.
Offensive Contributions
The running game for BYU was notable for its performance despite the absence of leading rusher LJ Martin, who missed his second consecutive game with an ankle injury. Running back Preston Rex recorded 66 rushing yards on 10 carries, providing stability while freshman Journee Tonga saw limited repetitions.
Receiver Walker Lyons emerged as a key target, recording his first touchdown of the season on the game-winning play. Other notable performances included Legend Glasker and Jojo Phillips, who provided critical receptions late in the game to help sustain BYU's offensive drives.
Coaching and Special Teams Analysis
Special teams and coaching decisions played a role in the game's momentum. A decision to attempt a fake punt and a muffed punt by returner Cannon DeVries nearly shifted the advantage to Notre Dame. Punter Fuller Shurtz provided a positive impact by pinning Notre Dame inside the 20-yard line on two of his three punts.
Regarding coaching, BYU offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick was noted for an effective first half and a nearly flawless final possession, though his play-calling became more conservative during the third quarter. On the defensive side, Kelly Poppinga was credited with effective coverage mixing that kept the Notre Dame passing attack out of sync for much of the contest.
Looking Ahead
Following the win, BYU moves to 6-0 and prepares for a matchup against UCF on Saturday, Oct. 24. The Cougars will then host Arizona State on Oct. 31 before heading to the 'Holy War' against Utah on Nov. 7.
Program Legacy and Standing
The victory reinforces discussions surrounding BYU's program respectability. Since joining the Big 12 and starting the 2024 season, the Cougars have maintained a record of 29-4. This latest win against a top-ranked opponent adds to a legacy that includes the 1984 national championship and the 1990 victory over No. 1 Miami.
