BYU Stuns Notre Dame Late After Irish Asked for the Matchup

October 18, 2026 - 12:29

Notre Dame wanted this game. BYU made sure the Irish walked away wishing they had never asked for it.

Bear Bachmeier delivered when it mattered most, leading unbeaten BYU to a 28-24 victory over Notre Dame in a game that lived up to the hype and then some. The Irish had a clear path to the top ranking in the country. Instead, they ran into a Cougars team that refused to back down and made the most of the opportunity.

The matchup came together because Notre Dame specifically requested it, a decision that looked bold before kickoff and questionable afterward. BYU, undefeated and playing with nothing to lose, matched the Irish blow for blow and saved its best for the final stretch. Bachmeier was calm under pressure, converting key plays late while Notre Dame's defense ran out of answers.

For the Irish, the loss stings on multiple levels. A win would have kept them in line for the No. 1 spot and strengthened their resume for the playoff race. Instead, they now face questions about closing out tight games against quality opponents. BYU, meanwhile, keeps its perfect season alive and adds a signature win that will resonate with the selection committee.

The Cougars did not just accept the challenge. They embraced it and handed Notre Dame a loss it will have trouble forgetting.