Tag: CJ Carr

Notre Dame vs. BYU Prediction: Can the Fighting Irish Beat the Cougars in Provo?

irishranter October 14, 2026 2026 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Notre Dame vs BYU

Notre Dame vs BYU Prediction 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish face one of their biggest challenges of the 2026 college football season when they travel to Utah to take on the BYU Cougars on Saturday, October 17. With both teams undefeated and ranked among the nation’s top 10, this primetime showdown could have major implications for the College Football Playoff race.

Notre Dame enters the matchup ranked No. 2 in the AP Top 25 after an impressive 58-7 victory over Stanford. BYU, ranked No. 8, will have the advantage of playing in front of its home crowd at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern, with national television coverage on ABC. ESPN’s College GameDay will also be on campus for this highly anticipated contest.

This is more than an ordinary regular-season game. The Irish have an opportunity to earn a significant road victory against a quality opponent, while the Cougars will be eager to defend their home field and prove they belong among college football’s elite.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish Look to Continue Their Winning Streak

Head coach Marcus Freeman has Notre Dame playing confident, aggressive football. The Irish have opened the season with six consecutive victories, and their latest performance against Stanford demonstrated just how dangerous this team can be when all three phases are clicking.

Notre Dame’s 58-7 win showcased its ability to put pressure on an opponent, build an early lead, and maintain control throughout the game. However, the trip to Provo presents a much different challenge. BYU has the talent, physicality, and home-field advantage to make Notre Dame work for every yard.

Quarterback CJ Carr will be a key player to watch. His ability to make smart decisions, deliver accurate passes, and remain composed in a hostile road environment could determine how successful the Irish offense becomes. Notre Dame must also find ways to establish its running game, allowing the offense to control the tempo and avoid becoming too predictable.

The Irish cannot afford to rely entirely on explosive plays. Sustained drives, efficient third-down conversions, and good ball security will be essential against a BYU team that will be motivated to produce a signature victory.

BYU Cougars Present a Serious Road Test

BYU enters this contest undefeated and ranked eighth nationally. Playing at LaVell Edwards Stadium gives the Cougars a valuable advantage, particularly in a game expected to attract considerable national attention.

Head coach Kalani Sitake has built a team capable of competing physically and maintaining its composure in important moments. The Cougars will have the energy of their home crowd behind them, and the opportunity to defeat a second-ranked Notre Dame team should provide plenty of motivation.

Notre Dame’s defense must be ready for a balanced offensive attack. The Irish need to limit productive running plays, pressure the quarterback without sacrificing their coverage responsibilities, and prevent BYU from consistently moving the chains.

The Cougars will likely look for opportunities to stretch the field, exploit defensive mismatches, and use the crowd’s energy to build momentum. If BYU gets off to a fast start, the Irish could find themselves in a difficult position.

Notre Dame must make BYU earn its points. Forcing the Cougars into third-and-long situations, creating pressure on passing downs, and making tackles in the open field will be especially important.

Three Keys to a Notre Dame Victory

1. Establish the Running Game Early

Notre Dame needs to make BYU respect the run from the opening possession. A productive ground attack can help the Irish control the clock, keep the defense fresh, and create opportunities for Carr to attack through the air.

The offensive line must win its battles at the line of scrimmage, open running lanes, and protect the quarterback. If Notre Dame consistently gains positive yardage on first and second down, it will have more flexibility on third down and in the red zone.

The Irish should mix inside runs, outside runs, and play-action passes to keep the Cougars guessing. The goal is to create a balanced offense that can respond to whatever defensive adjustments BYU makes.

2. Win the Turnover Battle

Turnovers can quickly change the direction of a game between two highly ranked teams. Notre Dame must protect the football, avoid careless throws, and secure the ball through contact.

Defensively, the Irish should look for opportunities to force mistakes without abandoning their assignments. An interception or a forced fumble could provide a short field and a valuable scoring opportunity.

Just as importantly, Notre Dame must avoid giving BYU extra possessions. A team playing at home can gain confidence from a sudden turnover, and the Cougars will be looking for every opportunity to capitalize.

If the Irish finish with a positive turnover margin, they will put themselves in a much stronger position to win.

3. Handle the Road Atmosphere and Finish Drives

Playing in Provo under the lights will test Notre Dame’s discipline. Communication, composure, and preparation will matter when the crowd gets loud and the game reaches its most important moments.

The Irish offense must avoid false starts, costly penalties, and wasted timeouts. Carr and the offensive line will need to communicate effectively, particularly in obvious passing situations.

Notre Dame must also turn promising drives into touchdowns. Settling for field goals repeatedly could keep BYU within striking distance, even if the Irish move the ball effectively between the 20-yard lines.

On defense, the Irish need to make critical stops in the red zone and prevent the Cougars from extending drives with third-down conversions. Winning those high-leverage situations could be the difference between a comfortable victory and a tense finish.

What Notre Dame Must Watch Out For

The biggest danger for Notre Dame is allowing BYU to control the game’s momentum. The Cougars have the benefit of playing at home, and an early touchdown could energize the crowd and make the environment even more challenging.

Notre Dame must also be careful not to become one-dimensional offensively. If the Irish abandon the running game too early, BYU could focus on pressuring Carr and disrupting the passing attack.

Another concern is explosive plays. Long completions and missed tackles can turn an otherwise solid defensive performance into a difficult afternoon. Notre Dame’s defenders must maintain their assignments and avoid giving BYU easy opportunities to score quickly.

Finally, the Irish cannot afford to overlook the importance of special teams. Field position, dependable kicking, sound coverage, and smart decisions on returns can all have a meaningful impact in a close game.

Notre Dame vs. BYU Prediction for October 17, 2026

This matchup has the potential to be one of the most entertaining games of the weekend. Notre Dame has the higher national ranking, a six-game winning streak, and the confidence that comes from a dominant victory over Stanford. BYU, meanwhile, is undefeated, talented, and playing at home.

The Cougars should be able to make things uncomfortable for the Irish, particularly early in the game. Notre Dame may need time to adjust to the atmosphere and the physical challenge presented by BYU’s defense.

However, the Irish have the tools to win if they establish the running game, protect Carr, and limit the Cougars’ offensive opportunities. Notre Dame’s defensive discipline could prove especially important late in the contest.

My prediction: Notre Dame 31, BYU 23.

I expect BYU to put up a fight and make Notre Dame earn the victory, but the Irish should have enough offensive balance and defensive strength to pull away in the second half. A strong performance in the fourth quarter could help Notre Dame secure one of its most important regular-season wins of 2026.

This prediction assumes Notre Dame maintains its current level of play and avoids major turnover or injury problems. BYU’s home-field advantage makes an upset possible, so the Irish will need a complete performance to leave Provo undefeated.

Why This Game Matters for Notre Dame

A victory over BYU would give Notre Dame a valuable win against a ranked opponent on the road. In a season where College Football Playoff positioning will be a major consideration, performances in games like this can help strengthen the Irish’s postseason case.

It would also demonstrate that Notre Dame can handle a high-pressure environment against a quality opponent outside South Bend. Winning in Provo would give the team additional confidence heading into the remaining weeks of the regular season.

The Irish cannot afford to look too far ahead, however. The best approach is to focus on execution, win the physical battles, and take care of the football one possession at a time.

For BYU, the game represents a chance to make a national statement. For Notre Dame, it is an opportunity to show that its undefeated start is backed by the ability to win a major road test.

Notre Dame vs. BYU Game FAQ

When does Notre Dame play BYU in 2026?
Notre Dame plays BYU on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

What time is the Notre Dame vs. BYU game?
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time, or 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.

What TV channel is broadcasting Notre Dame vs. BYU?
The game will be televised nationally on ABC.

Where will the Notre Dame vs. BYU game be played?
The game will take place at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah, home of the BYU Cougars.

What are the teams’ records heading into the matchup?
Notre Dame enters the game at 6-0, while BYU enters at 5-0, according to the teams’ published game-week information.

What is Notre Dame’s biggest challenge against BYU?
Notre Dame’s biggest challenges will be handling the road environment, containing BYU’s offense, protecting the football, and maintaining a balanced offensive attack.

What does Notre Dame need to do to beat BYU?
The Irish need to establish the running game, protect quarterback CJ Carr, win the turnover battle, tackle well in space, and convert scoring opportunities into touchdowns.

Who is favored to win Notre Dame vs. BYU?
Notre Dame enters as the favorite according to published game previews and betting lines, but BYU’s undefeated record and home-field advantage make the Cougars a dangerous opponent.

What is the prediction for Notre Dame vs. BYU?
My prediction is Notre Dame 31, BYU 23. I expect a competitive game before the Irish use their balance and defensive execution to secure the win.

Will a Notre Dame win help its College Football Playoff chances?
Yes. A road win over an undefeated, top-10 opponent would strengthen Notre Dame’s postseason résumé and provide an important result for its playoff aspirations.

Final Thoughts

Notre Dame has an opportunity to make a major statement against BYU on October 17. The Irish have shown that they can score in bunches and dominate opponents, but this road test will require patience, discipline, and execution.

If Notre Dame controls the line of scrimmage, limits turnovers, and makes the most of its scoring chances, the Fighting Irish should have a strong opportunity to leave Provo with another victory. BYU will be ready for the challenge, but Notre Dame has the talent to protect its undefeated record and continue building momentum toward the College Football Playoff.

Notre Dame Dominates Stanford 58-7 Behind Historic Jonaz Walton Performance

irishranter October 11, 2026 2026 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Jonaz Walton, Nolan James Jr, Notre Dame vs Stanford

Notre Dame Beats Stanford 58-7 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish delivered one of their most impressive performances of the 2026 college football season on Saturday, October 10, rolling past the Stanford Cardinal 58-7 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame combined explosive offensive plays, a relentless rushing attack and a dominant defensive effort to improve to 6-0 and extend its winning streak to 16 games.

The No. 3-ranked Fighting Irish wasted little time establishing control of the game. Notre Dame forced an early turnover, built a commanding halftime lead and continued to find the end zone throughout the second half. Freshman running back Jonaz Walton stole the spotlight with a record-setting performance, while quarterback CJ Carr and several other Irish playmakers helped turn the matchup into a one-sided contest.

For Notre Dame fans, the victory was another encouraging sign that the Fighting Irish have the offensive firepower and defensive toughness needed to compete at the highest level.

Notre Dame Sets the Tone From the Opening Play

The game could hardly have started better for the Irish defense. On Stanford’s first offensive play, Notre Dame defensive lineman Boubacar Traore broke through the protection, sacked quarterback Davis Warren and forced a fumble. Linebacker Jaiden Ausberry recovered the loose ball at the Stanford 18-yard line, immediately putting the Irish offense in excellent scoring position.

Notre Dame took advantage of the opportunity, with Nolan James Jr. finishing the short drive with a touchdown run. The early score established the tone for an afternoon in which Stanford struggled to find offensive rhythm.

The Irish defense continued to pressure Warren, disrupt passing plays and force punts. Stanford managed only 202 total yards for the game, including just 58 rushing yards, while Notre Dame’s offense repeatedly turned favorable field position into points.

Jonaz Walton Makes Notre Dame History

The biggest individual story of the afternoon belonged to freshman running back Jonaz Walton. He rushed for a game-high 181 yards on just 13 carries, averaging an outstanding 13.9 yards per attempt while scoring twice.

Walton’s signature moment came early in the second quarter. With Notre Dame backed up near its own goal line, the freshman found a massive opening on the right side of the offensive line and sprinted 97 yards for a touchdown.

The spectacular run was the third-longest offensive play in Notre Dame Stadium history, falling just short of the 98-yard touchdown runs recorded by Josh Adams in 2015 and Jeremiyah Love in 2024.

Walton was not finished. He later broke free for a 40-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, demonstrating that Notre Dame’s rushing attack remained dangerous even after the starting offense began giving way to younger players.

His performance was a major highlight of the victory and provided Notre Dame with another promising young playmaker in the backfield.

CJ Carr Delivers Three Touchdown Passes

Quarterback CJ Carr had an efficient afternoon directing the Irish offense. Carr completed 14 of 20 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception. He also contributed 41 rushing yards on five carries.

Carr connected with Jaden Greathouse for a three-yard touchdown late in the first quarter, capping a sustained drive that helped Notre Dame extend its lead to 14-0.

In the second quarter, Carr delivered one of the game’s biggest passing plays. Aneyas Williams lined up as a receiver, got behind the Stanford defense and caught a deep pass before racing downfield for a 70-yard touchdown. The explosive play helped Notre Dame take a 37-0 lead into halftime.

Carr added his third touchdown pass in the third quarter, finding Elijah Burress for a 30-yard scoring strike. The reception was Burress’s first career touchdown catch, making it a memorable milestone in a game full of standout performances.

Carr’s combination of accuracy, decision-making and mobility allowed Notre Dame to attack Stanford in multiple ways.

Nolan James Jr. Provides a Powerful Ground Game

While Walton produced the most spectacular runs, Nolan James Jr. played an important role in establishing Notre Dame’s dominance.

James finished with 73 rushing yards on 10 carries and two touchdowns. His first score came on a short run following the opening defensive turnover, giving Notre Dame an early advantage.

His second touchdown was even more impressive. In the second quarter, James found room behind the Irish offensive line and broke away for a 31-yard scoring run. The play extended Notre Dame’s lead to 30-0 and reinforced the team’s control of the game.

James continued contributing after halftime, helping Notre Dame sustain drives and wear down the Stanford defense. His production gave the Irish another dependable rushing option alongside Walton.

Aneyas Williams and Elijah Burress Make Big Plays

Notre Dame’s passing game benefited from timely contributions by its receiving targets.

Williams was especially effective as a versatile offensive weapon. Although he recorded only 28 rushing yards on seven carries, his 70-yard touchdown reception demonstrated his ability to turn a single opportunity into a game-changing play.

Burress also made the most of his opportunity. His 30-yard touchdown catch from Carr in the third quarter pushed Notre Dame’s lead to 44-0 and marked an important career milestone for the young receiver.

Greathouse contributed three receptions for 30 yards, including his first-quarter touchdown. Together, these players helped ensure that Stanford could not focus exclusively on stopping Notre Dame’s powerful running game.

Notre Dame’s Offensive Line Opens the Door

The Irish offensive line deserves significant credit for the team’s success on the ground. Notre Dame finished with approximately 360 rushing yards and nearly 600 yards of total offense, consistently finding openings against Stanford’s front seven.

The blocking on Walton’s 97-yard touchdown was particularly impressive. Cooper Flanagan, Ashton Craig and Guerby Lambert helped clear the right side, allowing Walton to reach the open field and outrun the Cardinal defense.

The line also helped create opportunities for James, whose two touchdown runs showed that Notre Dame could generate explosive plays from multiple running backs.

Notre Dame’s ability to combine long scoring runs with sustained drives made the offense difficult to contain throughout the afternoon.

Boubacar Traore Leads a Dominant Defensive Effort

The Notre Dame defense was just as impressive as the offense. Traore’s opening-play strip-sack immediately changed the game’s momentum, and he later intercepted a Stanford pass to give the Irish another takeaway.

Senior captain Drayk Bowen led Notre Dame with six tackles, helping anchor a defense that limited Stanford to nine first downs and only 202 total yards.

Jayden Sanders also made important contributions in the secondary. Making his first start in an Irish uniform in place of the injured Leonard Moore, Sanders broke up two passes on third down during the early stages of the game, helping force Stanford punts.

Mark Zachary IV added an interception on Stanford’s final pass attempt, ensuring that the Cardinal would not produce another scoring opportunity late in the contest.

Notre Dame held Stanford scoreless through the first half and forced three turnovers without committing one of its own. That combination of pressure, coverage and ball security played a major role in the lopsided result.

Javian Osborne Helps Finish the Job

Notre Dame continued scoring after the game was well in hand. Stanford finally got on the scoreboard late in the third quarter when Warren connected with Benji Blackburn for a three-yard touchdown, following a 52-yard completion to Caden High.

The Irish responded with another explosive run from Walton, who scored from 40 yards out to make it 51-7.

Freshman running back Javian Osborne then supplied the game’s final touchdown with a three-yard run in the fourth quarter. Osborne’s score capped a long, methodical drive and highlighted Notre Dame’s depth at running back.

Noah Grubbs also saw action at quarterback during the second half, completing five of seven passes for 56 yards while helping the Irish maintain their offensive rhythm.

Notre Dame ultimately finished with 58 points, 597 total yards, 26 first downs and eight touchdowns. The offense produced five touchdowns on plays of at least 30 yards, illustrating just how explosive the Irish were against Stanford.

What Notre Dame’s Win Means Moving Forward

The 58-7 victory was about more than improving the team’s record. It demonstrated that Notre Dame could generate offense through the air and on the ground while maintaining pressure on opposing quarterbacks and creating turnovers.

Walton’s historic freshman performance was an obvious highlight, but the Irish also received productive outings from Carr, James, Williams, Burress and the offensive line. On defense, Traore, Bowen, Sanders, Ausberry and Zachary helped deliver a complete team performance.

Notre Dame’s 6-0 start and 16-game winning streak provide plenty of reasons for optimism. The challenge now is to maintain that level of execution as the schedule continues and the competition gets tougher.

If the Fighting Irish can continue protecting the football, creating explosive plays and defending with the intensity displayed against Stanford, they will remain a formidable opponent for the rest of the 2026 season.

For now, Notre Dame fans can celebrate a convincing victory that featured a record-setting run, three touchdown passes from Carr and a defense that controlled the game from the opening snap.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame vs. Stanford Game FAQ

What was the final score of the Notre Dame vs. Stanford football game?
Notre Dame defeated Stanford 58-7 on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading rusher against Stanford?
Freshman Jonaz Walton led the Irish with 181 rushing yards on 13 carries. He averaged 13.9 yards per carry and scored two rushing touchdowns.

How long was Jonaz Walton’s longest touchdown run?
Walton’s longest touchdown was a 97-yard run early in the second quarter. It was the third-longest offensive play in Notre Dame Stadium history.

How did CJ Carr perform against Stanford?
Carr completed 14 of 20 passes for 181 yards and three touchdowns without an interception. He also rushed for 41 yards.

Which Notre Dame players scored touchdowns?
Nolan James Jr. scored two rushing touchdowns, Jonaz Walton scored twice on the ground, and Javian Osborne added a rushing touchdown. Jaden Greathouse caught a touchdown pass from Carr, as did Aneyas Williams and Elijah Burress.

Who scored Notre Dame’s first touchdown?
Nolan James Jr. scored the opening touchdown on a short rushing play after Boubacar Traore forced a fumble that Jaiden Ausberry recovered on Stanford’s first offensive possession.

How did Notre Dame’s defense perform?
The Irish limited Stanford to 202 total yards, including 58 rushing yards, and forced three turnovers. Traore recorded a strip-sack and an interception, while Mark Zachary IV intercepted a pass late in the game.

What was Notre Dame’s record after beating Stanford?
Notre Dame improved to 6-0 following the victory and extended its winning streak to 16 games.

Who scored Notre Dame’s final touchdown?
Freshman running back Javian Osborne scored on a three-yard run in the fourth quarter, completing the scoring in Notre Dame’s 58-7 victory.

What was the biggest takeaway from Notre Dame’s win?
The biggest takeaway was Notre Dame’s balance and explosiveness. The Irish combined a dominant rushing attack, efficient quarterback play and a defense that forced turnovers to produce one of their most convincing victories of the season.

The win also showcased the potential of freshman Jonaz Walton, whose record-setting performance added another exciting dimension to Notre Dame’s offense.

Notre Dame Defeats North Carolina 37-26 in Rainy Chapel Hill Battle

irishranter October 3, 2026 2026 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Jonaz Walton, Jordan Faison, Notre Dame vs UNC

Notre Dame Wins Over UNC 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish remained undefeated Saturday afternoon, overcoming a strong challenge from the North Carolina Tar Heels to earn a 37-26 victory at a rain-soaked Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill.

The third-ranked Fighting Irish improved to 5-0 with the win and extended their winning streak to 15 consecutive games. While North Carolina made things uncomfortable for much of the afternoon, Notre Dame’s offense and running game took control after halftime and allowed the Irish to pull away.

The victory also showed Notre Dame’s ability to win a different kind of game. With steady rain making passing conditions difficult, the Irish relied heavily on their offensive line and running backs in the second half.

CJ Carr Leads Notre Dame With Five Total Touchdowns

Quarterback CJ Carr was the biggest offensive difference-maker for Notre Dame.

Carr completed 21 of 29 passes for 234 yards and four touchdowns without throwing an interception. He also added a rushing touchdown, giving him five total touchdowns for the afternoon.

Carr connected with Jordan Faison for two touchdowns, including scoring passes of 28 and 39 yards. He also found Jaden Greathouse for a 12-yard touchdown and Nolan James Jr. for a 6-yard score.

His most important contribution, however, may have come on the ground.

After North Carolina cut Notre Dame’s lead to 21-20 early in the third quarter, Carr helped lead a 17-play, 75-yard drive that lasted more than nine minutes. The drive featured a physical rushing attack and ended with Carr running for a touchdown on fourth down.

That drive allowed Notre Dame to regain control of the game.

Jordan Faison Has a Career Day

Wide receiver Jordan Faison was another major factor in the victory.

Faison caught eight passes for 132 yards and two touchdowns. His first touchdown came on a 28-yard reception that tied the game at 7-7. He later made a 39-yard touchdown catch that extended Notre Dame’s lead to 21-7.

Faison repeatedly gave Carr a reliable target despite the wet conditions and helped Notre Dame establish separation from the Tar Heels.

His eight receptions and 132 receiving yards made him one of the most productive players on the field.

Notre Dame’s Running Game Takes Over

The biggest development for the Irish may have been the performance of the running game.

Notre Dame rushed for a season-best 241 yards, with freshman Jonaz Walton leading the way. Walton carried the ball 23 times for 120 yards, giving the Irish a physical presence that became increasingly important as the rain continued to fall.

Walton was particularly effective during the third quarter. He carried the ball 12 times for 61 yards during the period as Notre Dame controlled the clock and kept the Tar Heels’ offense on the sideline.

Nolan James Jr. also made an important contribution. James rushed for 65 yards on nine carries and caught a 6-yard touchdown pass from Carr early in the fourth quarter.

Aneyas Williams added 42 rushing yards on eight carries.

The Irish offensive line deserves considerable credit as well. Notre Dame was able to consistently create running lanes and maintain its physical advantage even though North Carolina knew the Irish wanted to run the football.

Defense Creates Crucial Turnovers

Notre Dame’s defense had some problems containing North Carolina’s passing game, but it made several plays that changed the momentum.

Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa intercepted Billy Edwards Jr. in the first quarter after Boubacar Traore pressured the North Carolina quarterback.

Luke Talich then picked off Edwards on the Tar Heels’ next possession.

Those turnovers helped Notre Dame quickly turn a 7-7 game into a 21-7 advantage.

North Carolina quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. finished with 208 passing yards and three touchdowns, but his two interceptions were costly.

The Irish defense also did an excellent job against the Tar Heels’ rushing attack. North Carolina managed only 77 rushing yards on 23 attempts.

Boubacar Traore was particularly active, finishing with six tackles, one tackle for loss and four quarterback hurries.

North Carolina Makes a Serious Second-Half Challenge

Notre Dame appeared to be in control when it took a 21-7 lead, but North Carolina refused to go away.

The Tar Heels put together a 15-play, 97-yard touchdown drive just before halftime to cut the Notre Dame advantage to 21-14.

North Carolina then produced an even bigger momentum swing to start the second half.

Jaden Jefferson returned the opening kickoff of the second half 98 yards for a touchdown, bringing the Tar Heels within 21-20.

Suddenly, a game that appeared to be leaning heavily toward Notre Dame was a one-point contest.

The Irish responded exactly as they needed to.

Notre Dame Answers With a Physical Second Half

Rather than becoming dependent on the passing game, Notre Dame leaned into its running attack.

The Irish responded to the kickoff return with a 17-play, 75-yard touchdown drive. Notre Dame converted two fourth downs during the possession and repeatedly moved the ball on the ground.

Carr eventually finished the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run.

Notre Dame then continued to wear down the Tar Heel defense. James Jr.’s 6-yard touchdown reception pushed the Irish advantage to 34-20 early in the fourth quarter.

Spencer Porath later added a 31-yard field goal to make it 37-20.

North Carolina scored again late when Edwards connected with Jelani Thurman for a 10-yard touchdown, but by then the Irish had established enough control to close out the victory.

Notre Dame Controls the Clock

One of the most impressive parts of Notre Dame’s performance was its ability to control possession.

The Irish held the football for 37:04 compared with 22:56 for North Carolina. Notre Dame also ran 74 offensive plays to just 51 for the Tar Heels.

That difference became particularly important in the second half.

Once Notre Dame established its running game, North Carolina had fewer opportunities to get its offense back onto the field. The Irish finished with 475 total yards compared with 285 for the Tar Heels.

Notre Dame also avoided turnovers entirely.

What the Win Means for Notre Dame

This was not Notre Dame’s cleanest performance of the season, but it may have been one of its more valuable victories.

The Irish entered the game having dominated their opponents defensively, but North Carolina presented a different challenge. The rain affected the passing game, the Tar Heels generated several explosive plays and Notre Dame had to respond after seeing a 21-7 advantage shrink to 21-20.

Instead of panicking, Notre Dame became more physical.

The offensive line, Walton, James and Carr helped the Irish establish control on the ground, while the defense eventually did enough to prevent North Carolina from completing its comeback.

For Marcus Freeman’s team, that ability to adjust could become increasingly important as the schedule gets tougher.

Notre Dame is now 5-0 and has won 15 consecutive games, with every victory during that streak coming by double digits.

Final Thoughts

Notre Dame’s 37-26 victory over North Carolina was a test of toughness as much as talent.

CJ Carr delivered five total touchdowns. Jordan Faison produced a huge receiving performance. Jonaz Walton led a powerful rushing attack, and Nolan James Jr. provided another important spark.

The defense also came through with two interceptions and held North Carolina to just 77 rushing yards.

Most importantly, Notre Dame responded when the game became uncomfortable.

After North Carolina pulled within one point early in the second half, the Irish answered with their most physical football of the afternoon. That response ultimately turned a potential upset scare into another double-digit Notre Dame victory.

The Fighting Irish return to South Bend next Saturday to face Stanford as they look to remain undefeated.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame vs. North Carolina FAQ

What was the final score of Notre Dame vs. North Carolina?
Notre Dame defeated North Carolina 37-26 on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill.

What is Notre Dame’s record after beating North Carolina?
The Fighting Irish improved to 5-0 with the victory.

How many touchdowns did CJ Carr score?
CJ Carr accounted for five Notre Dame touchdowns. He threw four touchdown passes and ran for another touchdown.

How did CJ Carr perform against North Carolina?
Carr completed 21 of 29 passes for 234 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. He also scored a rushing touchdown.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading receiver?
Jordan Faison led the Irish with eight receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns.

Who led Notre Dame in rushing?
Freshman Jonaz Walton led the Irish with 120 rushing yards on 23 carries.

How many rushing yards did Notre Dame have?
Notre Dame rushed for 241 yards, its best rushing performance of the season.

What did Nolan James Jr. contribute?
James rushed for 65 yards on nine carries and caught a 6-yard touchdown pass from Carr early in the fourth quarter.

How did Notre Dame’s defense perform?
The Irish defense forced two interceptions and held North Carolina to only 77 rushing yards. Boubacar Traore had six tackles, one tackle for loss and four quarterback hurries.

What happened after North Carolina cut the lead to 21-20?
Notre Dame responded with a long, physical 17-play, 75-yard touchdown drive. Carr finished the possession with a fourth-down rushing touchdown, and the Irish went on to score 16 consecutive points before North Carolina’s late touchdown.

What is Notre Dame’s next game?
Notre Dame returns home to face Stanford on October 10, 2026.

Notre Dame vs. North Carolina: 2026 Game Preview, Predictions and What the Irish Need to Do to Win

irishranter September 30, 2026 2026 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Notre Dame vs North Carolina

Notre Dame vs. North Carolina Predictions 2026

The undefeated Notre Dame heads to Chapel Hill this weekend to take on the North Carolina Tar Heels.

Notre Dame has been one of the nation’s most impressive teams through the first four weeks of the 2026 season. The Irish are 4-0 after dominant victories over Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State and Purdue, and they enter Week 5 ranked No. 3 in the country.

The latest test comes against a North Carolina team that has had two weeks to prepare after its 28-20 loss to Clemson. The Tar Heels are 2-1 and will have the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd at Kenan Stadium.

For Notre Dame, the challenge is to maintain the consistency that has defined the first month of the season while avoiding the kind of mistakes that can allow an opponent to stay in the game.

Notre Dame’s Defense Has Set the Tone

The biggest reason for Notre Dame’s 4-0 start has been its defense.

Through four games, the Irish have allowed only 8.25 points per game and are giving up just over 199 yards per game. That defense has also helped Notre Dame win every game by at least 17 points.

That will be especially important against North Carolina.

The Tar Heels are averaging 23.3 points and 366 total yards per game, numbers that are considerably below what Notre Dame has been producing on offense. North Carolina quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. has thrown for 611 yards and three touchdowns through three games, while running back Benjamin Hall has 215 rushing yards.

Notre Dame’s defense will look to make Edwards uncomfortable from the beginning.

If the Irish can force North Carolina into obvious passing situations, create third-and-long situations and prevent explosive plays, it could be difficult for the Tar Heels to consistently sustain drives.

CJ Carr and the Notre Dame Offense

Quarterback CJ Carr has also played an important role in Notre Dame’s fast start.

Carr has completed 70.5% of his passes for 963 yards with nine touchdowns and only one interception through four games.

He was particularly effective in Notre Dame’s 49-10 victory over Purdue, throwing three touchdown passes as the Irish built a commanding lead.

Carr doesn’t need to put together a spectacular statistical performance against North Carolina. What Notre Dame needs from him is efficient quarterback play, good decisions and the ability to take advantage when the Tar Heels bring pressure or leave receivers open downfield.

The Irish offense has already demonstrated that it can score quickly. The key Saturday will be doing it without giving North Carolina opportunities to generate momentum.

The Running Game Could Be Important

Notre Dame should also look to establish its running game early.

A productive rushing attack would allow the Irish to control the clock, keep the North Carolina defense on the field and create favorable down-and-distance situations for Carr.

Aneyas Williams has been one of Notre Dame’s leading rushers, entering the game with 224 yards and four touchdowns.

If Notre Dame can consistently gain positive yardage on first and second down, the Irish can force North Carolina to commit additional defenders to the running game. That could create opportunities for Carr and the passing attack.

North Carolina Has Had Time to Prepare

One factor Notre Dame cannot overlook is the Tar Heels’ preparation time.

North Carolina has not played since its September 19 loss to Clemson. The extended preparation period gives Bill Belichick and his staff additional time to develop a game plan specifically designed to slow down Notre Dame.

North Carolina also has the benefit of playing at home.

The Tar Heels will need to find a way to prevent Notre Dame from jumping out to another early lead. In the Clemson game, North Carolina took a 17-3 lead before Clemson eventually rallied to win 28-20.

A fast start could therefore be particularly important for UNC.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Win

There are several areas that could determine whether Notre Dame continues its undefeated start.

1. Stop the North Carolina running game

Notre Dame cannot allow UNC to establish the run and control possession. The Irish defense needs to force North Carolina into passing situations.

2. Pressure Billy Edwards Jr.

Edwards will need to make quick decisions against a Notre Dame defense that has been extremely difficult to move the ball against. Pressure could force him into mistakes or difficult third-down situations.

3. Avoid turnovers

Notre Dame has been extremely careful with the football. The Irish need to continue that trend on the road. A short field could give North Carolina an opportunity to turn a defensive stop into points.

4. Convert third downs

Keeping drives alive will be important. Notre Dame’s offense should be able to move the ball if it consistently stays ahead of the chains.

5. Establish the running game

The Irish don’t need to throw the ball 40 times. A strong rushing performance would help control the game and make Carr’s job easier.

6. Don’t overlook the Tar Heels

This may be the biggest mental challenge. Notre Dame has been heavily favored in each of its games, and the Irish have handled that pressure well so far. But an undefeated, highly ranked team playing on the road against an opponent with extra preparation time has to be ready from the opening kickoff.

Notre Dame vs. North Carolina Prediction

Notre Dame enters the game with considerable statistical advantages.

The Irish are averaging 42.3 points per game, while North Carolina is averaging 23.3. Notre Dame is also allowing only 8.3 points per game.

The betting market entering the week has Notre Dame favored by roughly three touchdowns, with the spread around 21.5 points and the total in the high 40s. Those numbers can move before kickoff.

My prediction: Notre Dame 38, North Carolina 13.

I expect North Carolina to have some success early, particularly because of the home-field advantage and the extra preparation time. However, Notre Dame’s defense has been remarkably consistent, and the Irish have enough balance offensively to eventually pull away.

Carr should have opportunities to make plays through the air, while the Notre Dame running game should become increasingly effective as the game progresses.

The most likely path for Notre Dame is another game in which the defense controls the opponent and the offense steadily builds a lead.

A win would move Notre Dame to 5-0 and keep the Irish firmly in the national championship conversation as the season moves into October.

Final Thoughts

The Notre Dame-North Carolina matchup should provide another opportunity for the Irish to show that their 4-0 start is built on more than just offensive production.

The defense has been the foundation of the team, while Carr and the offense have consistently produced enough points to put games away.

North Carolina will have the home crowd, extra preparation time and a coaching staff capable of creating problems for Notre Dame.

The Irish’s job is straightforward: stop the run, pressure Edwards, protect the football and establish the running game.

If Notre Dame can do those things, the Irish should have a strong opportunity to leave Chapel Hill with their fifth consecutive victory.

Notre Dame vs. North Carolina FAQ

When is the Notre Dame vs. North Carolina game?
Notre Dame plays North Carolina on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

What time does Notre Dame vs. North Carolina start?
The game is scheduled to begin at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Where is the Notre Dame vs. North Carolina game being played?
The game will be played at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

What channel is Notre Dame vs. North Carolina on?
The game will be televised nationally on ESPN.

What is Notre Dame’s record entering the game?
Notre Dame enters the game 4-0 and ranked No. 3 nationally.

What is North Carolina’s record?
North Carolina enters the game 2-1 after losing 28-20 to Clemson on September 19.

Who is Notre Dame’s starting quarterback?
CJ Carr is Notre Dame’s starting quarterback. Through four games, Carr has thrown for 963 yards, nine touchdowns and one interception.

Who is North Carolina’s starting quarterback?
Billy Edwards Jr. is the Tar Heels’ starting quarterback. He has thrown for 611 yards and three touchdowns entering the Notre Dame game.

What does Notre Dame need to do to beat North Carolina?
The Irish need to stop North Carolina’s running game, pressure Edwards, avoid turnovers, stay ahead of the chains and establish their own rushing attack. Notre Dame’s defense has been particularly effective so far in 2026, allowing only 8.25 points per game.

When was the last time Notre Dame played North Carolina?
The teams last met in 2022, when Notre Dame defeated North Carolina 45-32 in Chapel Hill.

What is your Notre Dame vs. North Carolina prediction?
My prediction is Notre Dame 38, North Carolina 13. The Irish’s defense and balanced offense should allow them to control the game, although playing at Kenan Stadium and North Carolina’s extended preparation could make the opening stages competitive.

Notre Dame Dominates Purdue 49-10 as Irish Improve to 4-0

irishranter September 26, 2026 2026 Games Tagged Aneyas, CJ Carr, Micah Gilbert, Notre Dame vs Purdue

ND Wins- vs Purdue 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish continued their impressive start to the 2026 football season Saturday afternoon, dominating the Purdue Boilermakers 49-10 at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette.

Notre Dame entered the game ranked No. 3 nationally and left Purdue with a 4-0 record after putting together another impressive all-around performance. The Irish were particularly dominant in the first half, taking a 35-0 lead into halftime after controlling both sides of the football.

The victory also extended Notre Dame’s winning streak over Purdue and allowed the Irish to retain the Shillelagh Trophy.

Notre Dame’s offense produced explosive plays throughout the afternoon, while the defense consistently pressured Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne and prevented the Boilermakers from establishing much of a running game.

Notre Dame Offense Comes Out Firing

Quarterback CJ Carr once again directed an efficient Notre Dame offense.

Carr completed 14 of 22 passes for 237 yards and threw three touchdown passes. He also added a rushing touchdown, giving him four total touchdowns for the afternoon.

Carr connected with several different receivers, keeping Purdue’s defense from concentrating on a single target.

One of the biggest plays came early in the game when Carr found wide receiver Micah Gilbert for a 27-yard touchdown that put Notre Dame ahead 7-0.

Gilbert continued to make big plays throughout the game. He finished with two receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown, including a 56-yard reception that helped set up another Notre Dame touchdown.

After three games in which the Irish offense had already shown plenty of explosiveness, Gilbert’s performance against Purdue provided another indication of how dangerous Notre Dame’s passing attack can be.

Aneyas Williams Provides a Strong Running Game

Running back Aneyas Williams also played an important role in the victory.

Williams carried the ball 14 times for 80 yards and scored a touchdown. His 22-yard touchdown run helped Notre Dame extend its lead to 14-0 in the second quarter.

The Irish did not need to rely on one running back throughout the afternoon. Jonaz Walton also provided a big-play element on the ground, including a 44-yard run, as Notre Dame’s rushing attack consistently found opportunities against Purdue.

That balance helped prevent the Boilermakers from simply focusing on stopping Carr and the passing game.

Bryce Young Sets the Tone on Defense

While the Notre Dame offense deserved plenty of attention, the defense was arguably the biggest reason the game became a rout so quickly.

Defensive end Bryce Young made his presence felt immediately, recording a sack on the first play of the game. He finished with four tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble.

His second sack produced one of the game’s biggest turning points.

Young stripped Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne, and linebacker Drayk Bowen recovered the fumble and returned it 15 yards for a touchdown.

That defensive touchdown pushed Notre Dame’s lead to 28-0 and helped put the game firmly out of reach before halftime.

The Irish defense held Purdue to only 90 yards in the first half, including just 12 rushing yards. That allowed Notre Dame to take a commanding 35-0 advantage into the locker room.

Notre Dame Defense Continues Its Strong Start

The performance against Purdue was another strong showing for a Notre Dame defense that has been one of the team’s defining characteristics early in the 2026 season.

The Irish pass rush consistently pressured Browne, while the defense limited Purdue’s ability to create sustained drives.

Notre Dame ultimately held Purdue to 218 total yards for the game, compared with 444 yards for the Irish. Purdue managed only 3.2 yards per play.

The defensive performance was especially impressive considering how quickly Notre Dame built its lead. With the Irish ahead by five touchdowns at halftime, the defense continued to prevent Purdue from generating enough offense to make the game competitive.

Notre Dame’s Depth Shows in the Second Half

With the game essentially decided at halftime, Notre Dame was able to get additional players onto the field during the second half.

Backup quarterback Noah Grubbs threw a touchdown pass to Micah Jeffery in the fourth quarter, giving the Irish another scoring drive while allowing the coaching staff to manage the workload of its starters.

The Irish also added another touchdown when Carr connected with Cooper Flanagan, before Grubbs later found Jeffery.

That depth could become increasingly important as Notre Dame moves deeper into the 2026 schedule.

Notre Dame Starts 4-0

The 49-10 victory gives Notre Dame a 4-0 record and provides another convincing performance early in the season.

The Irish have now opened the year with wins over Wisconsin, Rice, Michigan State and Purdue. The defense has been particularly impressive during that stretch, while Carr and the offense have continued to produce explosive plays.

Notre Dame’s victory over Purdue was never seriously in doubt after the Irish scored 35 unanswered points before halftime.

The combination of Carr’s passing, Williams’ running, Gilbert’s explosive receiving, and a defense led by Young and Bowen gave the Irish everything they needed to leave West Lafayette with another decisive victory.

With four games complete, Notre Dame now turns its attention to the next challenge on its 2026 schedule.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame vs. Purdue FAQ

What was the final score of Notre Dame vs. Purdue in 2026?
Notre Dame defeated Purdue 49-10 on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana.

What is Notre Dame’s record after beating Purdue?
The Fighting Irish improved to 4-0 following the victory over Purdue.

Who was Notre Dame’s quarterback against Purdue?
CJ Carr started at quarterback for Notre Dame. He completed 14 of 22 passes for 237 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for a touchdown.

How did CJ Carr perform against Purdue?
Carr had an efficient afternoon, throwing three touchdown passes and adding a rushing touchdown. He helped Notre Dame build a 35-0 halftime advantage.

Who led Notre Dame in rushing against Purdue?
Aneyas Williams led the Irish with 14 carries for 80 yards and a touchdown.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading receiver against Purdue?
Micah Gilbert had two receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown. His longest reception went for 56 yards.

How did the Notre Dame defense perform?
The Irish defense held Purdue to 218 total yards and only 3.2 yards per play. Notre Dame also held the Boilermakers to just 12 rushing yards in the first half.

Who had the biggest defensive play for Notre Dame?
Defensive end Bryce Young recorded two sacks and forced a fumble. Linebacker Drayk Bowen recovered that fumble and returned it 15 yards for a touchdown.

What was the score at halftime?
Notre Dame led 35-0 at halftime after scoring four offensive touchdowns and a defensive touchdown during the first half.

Where was the Notre Dame vs. Purdue game played?
The game was played at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana, on September 26, 2026.

What is next for Notre Dame football?
Notre Dame moves forward in its 2026 schedule after opening the season 4-0. The Irish’s next scheduled opponent is North Carolina.

Final Thoughts

Notre Dame’s 49-10 victory over Purdue was another statement performance from the Fighting Irish.

Carr continued to lead an explosive offense, Williams provided a productive running attack, and Gilbert delivered another big-play performance at receiver. On defense, Young’s pass rush and Bowen’s defensive touchdown helped Notre Dame seize control of the game before halftime.

The Irish now have a 4-0 record and plenty of momentum as they continue through the 2026 season.

Notre Dame vs. Purdue 2026: Predictions, Preview and What the Irish Need to Do to Win

irishranter September 22, 2026 2026 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Nolan James Jr

Notre Dame vs Purdue Predictions 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish return to the road this Saturday when they travel to West Lafayette to take on the Purdue Boilermakers on September 26, 2026. The game will be played at Ross-Ade Stadium as Notre Dame looks to continue its undefeated start to the season.

Notre Dame enters the matchup at 3-0 after opening the season with victories over Wisconsin, Rice and Michigan State. The Irish are ranked No. 3 nationally and have been particularly impressive on defense during the first three games of the season.

Purdue enters the game with a 1-2 record, but its record does not tell the entire story. The Boilermakers have shown that they can move the football and score points, making this a game Notre Dame cannot simply overlook.

The Irish have also dominated this series in recent years. Notre Dame has won 10 consecutive games against Purdue and owns a 61-26-2 advantage in the all-time series. The last meeting in West Lafayette came in 2024, when Notre Dame won 66-7.

Notre Dame vs. Purdue Game Preview

This game presents an interesting contrast between two teams that have performed very differently on opposite sides of the football.

Notre Dame has been built around a defense that has consistently made life difficult for opposing offenses. The Irish defense played a major role in the 27-10 victory over Michigan State, forcing two interceptions and holding the Spartans to limited production through the air.

Purdue, meanwhile, has been much more productive offensively than its 1-2 record might suggest. The Boilermakers are averaging nearly 40 points per game, but their defense has allowed more than 36 points per game through three contests. Purdue’s defense also surrendered 645 yards against UCLA.

That creates an important matchup. Notre Dame’s defense will be challenged by a Purdue offense that has demonstrated an ability to put points on the scoreboard, while the Irish offense will have an opportunity to attack a Boilermaker defense that has struggled to consistently stop opponents.

What to Expect From Notre Dame’s Offense

The Notre Dame offense has not necessarily needed to put up huge numbers during the first three games because the defense has been so effective.

That could change against Purdue.

The Boilermakers have had difficulty stopping the run, including giving up 369 rushing yards to UCLA. That could provide Notre Dame with an opportunity to establish the running game early and control the tempo.

Nolan James Jr. also enters the game after producing a strong performance against Michigan State. James rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries, giving the Irish another reason to believe the running game can continue to improve.

Quarterback CJ Carr should also have opportunities in the passing game. Notre Dame has developed multiple receiving options, including Jordan Faison and Micah Gilbert, giving Carr several targets capable of making plays downfield.

If the Irish can establish the run, they should be able to create favorable passing situations for Carr.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Win

1. Establish the Running Game

This could be one of the biggest keys to the afternoon.

Notre Dame does not need to abandon its passing attack, but an effective running game would allow the Irish to control the clock, keep Purdue’s offense on the sideline and make the Irish offense more difficult to defend.

James’ performance against Michigan State was encouraging, and Notre Dame will look for additional production from its running backs and offensive line.

2. Pressure Purdue Quarterback Ryan Browne

Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne has been productive through the air this season. He entered the week with 1,024 passing yards, seven touchdown passes and only one interception.

Notre Dame’s defensive front needs to make him uncomfortable.

If the Irish can generate pressure without consistently needing to blitz, Notre Dame can devote additional defenders to coverage and make Purdue work for every completion.

3. Prevent Explosive Plays

Purdue has demonstrated that it can score quickly, so Notre Dame cannot afford to relax simply because the Boilermakers have struggled defensively.

The Irish defense allowed Michigan State to hit a deep pass for a touchdown last week. Eliminating those types of plays will be important against Purdue.

Notre Dame’s defense has been excellent so far, but maintaining that consistency on the road will be important.

4. Take Advantage of Purdue’s Defensive Problems

Notre Dame should be aggressive when opportunities present themselves.

The Boilermakers have allowed significant yardage and points during the first three games of the season. If the Irish offense can avoid turnovers and sustain drives, Notre Dame should have opportunities to produce its highest-scoring performance since the opening weeks of the season.

A fast start could also force Purdue to abandon its preferred offensive approach and play from behind.

5. Win the Turnover Battle

Road games can change quickly when turnovers are involved.

Notre Dame has the defensive personnel to create takeaways, and Purdue’s offense will be facing one of its most difficult defensive challenges of the season.

The Irish should focus on playing disciplined football, protecting the football on offense and taking advantage of opportunities when Purdue puts the ball in danger.

Notre Dame vs. Purdue Prediction

On paper, Notre Dame has advantages on both sides of the football.

The Irish enter the game undefeated, ranked No. 3 nationally and coming off a convincing defensive performance against Michigan State. Purdue has shown considerable offensive ability, but its defense has struggled badly during the opening three games.

The biggest question for Notre Dame is whether the Irish offense can consistently capitalize on those defensive weaknesses.

I expect Notre Dame to make a strong effort to establish the running game early, which should open up opportunities for Carr and the passing attack. Purdue’s offense should be capable of producing some points, particularly at home, but Notre Dame’s defense should make it difficult for the Boilermakers to sustain drives throughout the game.

Prediction: Notre Dame 45, Purdue 20

I expect the game to be competitive early before Notre Dame’s defense and overall depth begin to take control. The Irish should be able to create enough pressure on Browne, limit Purdue’s rushing opportunities and take advantage of the Boilermakers’ defensive struggles.

A Notre Dame victory would move the Irish to 4-0 and give them another important road win before the schedule becomes more challenging.

Why This Game Matters for Notre Dame

Although Notre Dame is expected to be heavily favored, this is still an important game for the Irish.

The trip to Purdue represents another opportunity to demonstrate that Notre Dame can handle a road environment against a Big Ten opponent. It is also a chance for the offense to continue developing before the Irish travel to North Carolina the following week.

Notre Dame’s defense has already established itself as a major strength. If the offense can continue improving its consistency and the running game becomes a reliable part of the attack, the Irish will have another important piece of the team coming together.

The Purdue game could therefore be about more than simply adding another victory to the record. It could provide another indication of how much the Notre Dame offense has progressed during the opening month of the season.

Notre Dame vs. Purdue FAQ

When does Notre Dame play Purdue in 2026?
Notre Dame plays Purdue on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Where is the Notre Dame vs. Purdue game being played?
The game will be played at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana.

What time does Notre Dame vs. Purdue start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The game will be available on Peacock.

What is Notre Dame’s record entering the Purdue game?
Notre Dame enters the game with a 3-0 record after defeating Wisconsin, Rice and Michigan State.

What is Purdue’s record entering the game?
Purdue enters the matchup with a 1-2 record. The Boilermakers defeated Indiana State and lost to Wake Forest and UCLA.

When was the last time Notre Dame played Purdue?
The teams last met in 2025, when Notre Dame defeated Purdue 56-30. The previous meeting in West Lafayette was in 2024, when the Irish won 66-7.

Who has won the most games in the Notre Dame-Purdue series?
Notre Dame leads the all-time series 61-26-2 and has won the last 10 meetings between the schools.

What is the key to Notre Dame beating Purdue?
Notre Dame needs to establish the running game, pressure Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne, prevent explosive plays and take advantage of Purdue’s defensive struggles.

Can Purdue score against Notre Dame?
Purdue has demonstrated that it can score points this season, so Notre Dame cannot afford to overlook the Boilermakers’ offense. The Irish defense, however, has been highly effective through the first three games and will present Purdue with a much tougher challenge than it has faced in some of its previous games.

What is the Notre Dame vs. Purdue prediction?
My prediction is Notre Dame 45, Purdue 20. The Irish should have opportunities to score against Purdue’s defense, while Notre Dame’s defense could make it difficult for the Boilermakers to maintain their offensive production for four quarters.

Final Thoughts

Notre Dame enters West Lafayette with an undefeated record, a highly productive defense and plenty of momentum. Purdue has enough offensive talent to make the Irish work, but the Boilermakers’ defensive struggles could make this a difficult matchup for the home team.

For Notre Dame, the formula is straightforward: run the football effectively, protect the ball, pressure Browne and prevent big plays.

If the Irish can accomplish those things, they should have an excellent opportunity to leave Ross-Ade Stadium with another victory and a 4-0 record.

Notre Dame Beats Michigan State 27-10: Fighting Irish Take Down Spartans

irishranter September 20, 2026 2026 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Micah Gilbert

Notre Dame Wins vs Michigan State 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish remained undefeated with a 27-10 victory over the Michigan State Spartans on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend.

Playing through rainy conditions, Notre Dame used a balanced offensive attack and another strong defensive performance to take control of the game. The Irish finished with 395 total yards while holding Michigan State to just 167 yards. Notre Dame also won the turnover battle 2-0 and controlled the clock for more than 37 minutes.

The victory moved Notre Dame to 3-0 on the season and allowed the Irish to retain the Megaphone Trophy.

Notre Dame Takes Early Control

Notre Dame wasted little time creating problems for Michigan State.

Quarterback CJ Carr opened the game by connecting with wide receiver Micah Gilbert for a 61-yard completion on the first play from scrimmage. Although the Irish had to settle for a field goal on the opening possession, the big play immediately demonstrated the potential of the Notre Dame passing game.

The Irish defense then forced Michigan State into a three-and-out, giving the offense another opportunity.

Notre Dame eventually turned that opportunity into a touchdown when running back Nolan James Jr. scored on a short touchdown run. The Irish added another touchdown from Aneyas Williams later in the second quarter to build a 17-3 advantage.

Michigan State answered with a touchdown run from Cam Fancher before halftime, but Notre Dame still entered the second half with a 17-10 lead.

Nolan James Jr. Leads the Notre Dame Running Game

One of the biggest contributors to the Notre Dame victory was running back Nolan James Jr.

James carried the ball 26 times for 121 yards and a touchdown. His steady running helped Notre Dame maintain possession and control the pace of the game, particularly late in the contest.

James was especially important in the fourth quarter. With Notre Dame protecting its lead, the Irish repeatedly turned to their running game to keep the clock moving and prevent Michigan State from getting another opportunity to mount a comeback.

His 121-yard performance gave Notre Dame a physical presence on the ground throughout the game.

Micah Gilbert Has a Huge Receiving Night

Wide receiver Micah Gilbert was another major factor in the Notre Dame victory.

Gilbert caught eight passes for 170 yards, averaging more than 21 yards per reception. His 61-yard reception on the opening play immediately put the Michigan State defense under pressure and helped establish the Irish passing attack.

While Gilbert did not score a touchdown, his ability to make explosive plays gave Notre Dame a significant advantage through the air.

His performance was particularly notable because Michigan State had difficulty limiting the big play. Gilbert repeatedly provided Carr with a downfield target and finished the night as Notre Dame’s leading receiver.

CJ Carr Plays a Key Role

Quarterback CJ Carr delivered an efficient performance for Notre Dame.

Carr completed 18 of 24 passes for 234 yards and did not throw an interception. He also added a rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter that effectively put the game out of reach.

Perhaps just as important as his statistics was Carr’s ability to avoid mistakes. Against a Michigan State team that managed to force turnovers in its first two games, Carr protected the football and consistently moved the offense.

His fourth-quarter touchdown run gave Notre Dame a 27-10 advantage with just over 11 minutes remaining and essentially ended Michigan State’s hopes of a comeback.

Aneyas Williams Provides Another Notre Dame Touchdown

Aneyas Williams also contributed to the Notre Dame offensive effort.

Williams scored on a one-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, extending Notre Dame’s lead to 17-3. The score came after the Irish had already established control of the game and gave Notre Dame some breathing room before Michigan State responded.

Williams also contributed as a receiver, catching two passes for 11 yards.

His ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver continues to give Notre Dame another option in its offensive attack.

Notre Dame Defense Keeps Michigan State in Check

While the Irish offense received much of the attention, Notre Dame’s defense played an equally important role in the victory.

Michigan State finished with only 167 total yards and averaged just 3.7 yards per play. The Spartans also turned the ball over twice, while Notre Dame finished the game without a turnover.

Michigan State quarterback Alessio Milivojevic completed only 9 of 17 passes for 123 yards and threw two interceptions.

The Notre Dame defense consistently made it difficult for Michigan State to sustain drives. The Irish also came up with key pressure late in the game as Notre Dame protected its lead.

The defensive performance was particularly important because Michigan State entered the game having shown an ability to run the football effectively during the early part of the season.

Instead, Notre Dame limited the Spartans’ rushing attack and forced Michigan State to rely more heavily on the passing game.

Notre Dame Controls the Fourth Quarter

Notre Dame entered the fourth quarter leading 20-10 after Spencer Porath connected on a 35-yard field goal in the third quarter.

The Irish then put together another important scoring drive.

Carr finished the drive himself, rushing three yards for a touchdown to extend the Notre Dame lead to 27-10.

From there, Notre Dame relied on its running game and its defense. James continued to pick up important yards, while Carr took a pair of late kneel-downs to close out the victory.

The Irish finished with 67 offensive plays compared with 45 for Michigan State and held the ball for 37:02.

That control of possession was a major part of the victory.

What the Notre Dame Win Means

The 27-10 victory gave Notre Dame a 3-0 record and another strong early-season win.

The Irish showed they could win in different ways. The passing game produced several explosive plays, the running game produced more than 200 yards, and the defense limited Michigan State to 167 total yards.

Notre Dame also avoided the turnovers and costly mistakes that can change the outcome of a close rivalry game.

The victory gives the Fighting Irish additional momentum as they continue through their 2026 schedule.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame fans can also find more information about Notre Dame football tickets and upcoming games.

Notre Dame vs. Michigan State FAQ

What was the final score of Notre Dame vs. Michigan State?
Notre Dame defeated Michigan State 27-10 on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading rusher against Michigan State?
Nolan James Jr. led Notre Dame with 121 rushing yards on 26 carries and scored one touchdown.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading receiver against Michigan State?
Micah Gilbert led the Irish with eight receptions for 170 yards. He also opened the game with a 61-yard reception.

How did CJ Carr perform against Michigan State?
CJ Carr completed 18 of 24 passes for 234 yards without an interception. He also rushed for a fourth-quarter touchdown.

Who scored Notre Dame’s touchdowns?
Nolan James Jr., Aneyas Williams and CJ Carr scored Notre Dame’s three touchdowns against Michigan State.

How many yards did Notre Dame have against Michigan State?
Notre Dame finished with 395 total yards, including 234 passing yards and 161 rushing yards.

How many yards did Michigan State have?
Michigan State finished with 167 total yards, including 123 passing yards.

Did Notre Dame turn the ball over?
No. Notre Dame finished the game without a turnover, while Michigan State turned the ball over twice.

What was the biggest play of the game?
One of Notre Dame’s biggest plays came on the first snap when CJ Carr connected with Micah Gilbert for a 61-yard completion. The play immediately put Michigan State’s defense on notice and helped establish the Irish passing attack.

Where was the Notre Dame vs. Michigan State game played?
The game was played at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

Notre Dame vs. Michigan State 2026: Predictions, Keys to Victory and What to Expect

irishranter September 14, 2026 2026 Games, Predictions Tagged CJ Carr, Notre Dame vs Michigan State

notre dame vs michigan state 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish return to Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday, September 19, for a night game with the Michigan State Spartans. With Notre Dame ranked No. 3 nationally and entering the game at 2-0, the Irish have quickly established themselves as one of the teams to watch in the 2026 college football season.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, giving Notre Dame another opportunity to make a statement in front of a national audience. The Irish opened the season with an impressive victory over Wisconsin at Lambeau Field before following it up with a dominant 52-0 shutout of Rice.

Michigan State is also 2-0 after opening the season with victories over Toledo and Eastern Michigan. The Spartans, however, will face a significant step up in competition when they travel to South Bend. Michigan State is in its first season under head coach Pat Fitzgerald, making this matchup an especially intriguing test for the new Spartan regime.

A Rivalry Returns to South Bend

Notre Dame and Michigan State have a long history together, and this year’s meeting renews one of the more familiar rivalries in Irish football.

Notre Dame holds the all-time series advantage, and the Irish won the most recent meeting in 2017. The two programs are scheduled to meet again in East Lansing in 2027, making this the first game of a home-and-home series.

This game should have a different feel from Notre Dame’s first two contests. Wisconsin provided the Irish with a major early test, while Rice struggled to stay competitive against Notre Dame’s defense. Michigan State represents a more physical challenge and will be looking to turn the game into a fourth-quarter battle.

Notre Dame’s Offense Has Plenty of Momentum

Through two games, Notre Dame’s offense has shown that it can attack opponents in multiple ways.

Quarterback CJ Carr enters the Michigan State game with valuable experience already under his belt, and the Irish offense appears to be gaining confidence. Notre Dame’s ability to establish the running game while taking advantage of opportunities through the air could make it difficult for Michigan State to keep pace.

The biggest question may be how aggressively Notre Dame wants to attack.

With a major stretch of the schedule still ahead, Marcus Freeman and his coaching staff have little reason to expose players unnecessarily if the Irish build a comfortable lead. At the same time, Notre Dame needs to continue developing its offensive consistency against stronger competition.

The goal should be to start fast, establish control and avoid giving Michigan State any reason to believe an upset is possible.

The Notre Dame Defense Could Be the Difference

The defense has arguably been the most impressive part of Notre Dame’s start.

After holding Wisconsin to 13 points in the season opener, the Irish defense completely shut down Rice in a 52-0 victory. Notre Dame has now outscored its opponents 93-13 through two games, a remarkable start for a team carrying national championship expectations.

Michigan State will need to find a way to move the football against a defense that has demonstrated excellent discipline and playmaking ability.

Notre Dame should concentrate on stopping the run, forcing Michigan State into obvious passing situations and creating pressure without allowing big plays behind the defense.

If the Irish can force Michigan State into third-and-long situations, the advantage should heavily favor Notre Dame.

What Notre Dame Needs to Do to Win

1. Start Fast

Notre Dame cannot afford to let Michigan State hang around.

The Irish are a heavy favorite, with early betting lines making Notre Dame roughly a 29.5-point favorite. That number illustrates how highly the Irish are regarded, but it also creates an expectation that Notre Dame should control the game from the beginning.

A quick touchdown or two could force Michigan State to abandon its preferred game plan.

2. Establish the Running Game

Notre Dame needs to make Michigan State defend the entire field.

A productive rushing attack would allow the Irish to control the clock, keep the defense fresh and create favorable passing situations for Carr.

If Notre Dame can consistently gain positive yardage on first and second down, the offense should have plenty of opportunities to produce explosive plays.

3. Protect CJ Carr

Michigan State’s best opportunity to disrupt Notre Dame will be generating pressure on Carr.

Notre Dame’s offensive line needs to keep the pocket clean and prevent the Spartans from creating negative plays. Carr has shown considerable potential, but the Irish do not need to make the game more difficult by putting their quarterback into obvious passing situations.

4. Win the Turnover Battle

This is particularly important in a game in which Notre Dame is heavily favored.

Michigan State’s easiest path to an upset would likely involve turnovers, short fields and special-teams advantages. Notre Dame needs to eliminate those opportunities.

If the Irish take care of the football while forcing Michigan State into mistakes, the game could get away from the Spartans quickly.

5. Don’t Overlook Michigan State

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Notre Dame is mental rather than physical.

The Irish are coming off a 52-0 victory and are ranked among the nation’s top teams. Michigan State, meanwhile, enters South Bend undefeated and will have nothing to lose.

Notre Dame has to treat this as a serious rivalry game rather than simply another opportunity to pad the win column.

What to Expect From Michigan State

Michigan State’s first two games under Pat Fitzgerald provide a glimpse of a program trying to establish a tougher identity.

The Spartans opened the season with a 30-20 victory over Toledo and followed it with a 35-7 win over Eastern Michigan. Neither opponent compares with Notre Dame’s talent level, however, so Saturday night will provide the first major measuring stick for Fitzgerald’s team.

Michigan State’s best strategy will likely be to make the game physical, shorten the contest and prevent Notre Dame from producing quick scores.

If the Spartans can stay within one or two possessions into the second half, the pressure will shift toward the Irish. That makes the opening 30 minutes particularly important.

Prediction: Notre Dame 38, Michigan State 13

Notre Dame should win this game, and the Irish have enough talent on both sides of the ball to control the matchup.

Michigan State deserves credit for beginning the Fitzgerald era with two victories, but Notre Dame represents a completely different level of competition. The Irish have already demonstrated that they can win a physical game against Wisconsin and dominate an overmatched opponent like Rice.

The prediction here is Notre Dame 38, Michigan State 13.

Michigan State may be able to make a few plays early, particularly with the emotion of playing at Notre Dame Stadium under the lights. Eventually, however, Notre Dame’s depth and overall talent should take over.

Look for the Irish to establish the running game, create pressure defensively and pull away during the second half.

A convincing victory would move Notre Dame to 3-0 and provide another important step toward its larger postseason goals.

Final Thoughts

The Michigan State game represents an important checkpoint for Notre Dame.

The Irish have already shown they can dominate opponents, but Saturday night should provide a better indication of how the team handles a physical opponent with enough talent to compete for stretches.

Notre Dame does not need to do anything spectacular. It needs to play clean football, protect the quarterback, control the line of scrimmage and force Michigan State to drive the length of the field.

If the Irish do those things, another convincing victory could be waiting under the lights at Notre Dame Stadium.

Notre Dame vs. Michigan State FAQ

When does Notre Dame play Michigan State in 2026?
Notre Dame plays Michigan State on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Where is the Notre Dame vs. Michigan State game being played?
The game will be played at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

What time does Notre Dame vs. Michigan State start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.

What TV channel is carrying Notre Dame vs. Michigan State?
The game will be televised nationally on NBC and will also be available through Peacock.

What is Notre Dame’s record entering the Michigan State game?
Notre Dame enters the matchup with a 2-0 record after defeating Wisconsin and Rice.

What is Michigan State’s record entering the game?
Michigan State is also 2-0 after victories over Toledo and Eastern Michigan.

Who is favored to win Notre Dame vs. Michigan State?
Notre Dame is a significant favorite. Early lines have installed the Irish as roughly 29.5-point favorites.

What does Notre Dame need to do to beat Michigan State?
The Irish need to establish the running game, protect CJ Carr, avoid turnovers, pressure the Michigan State quarterback and prevent explosive plays.

Could Michigan State upset Notre Dame?
Any undefeated team presents a potential challenge, but Michigan State will have to play a nearly mistake-free game and find a way to slow Notre Dame’s offense. The Spartans’ best chance is to keep the game close into the second half and create turnovers or short-field opportunities.

What is the prediction for Notre Dame vs. Michigan State?
Notre Dame is predicted to win 38-13. The Irish have the advantage in overall talent, defensive play and offensive firepower, and playing at home should provide another advantage.

Notre Dame Football Rolls Past Rice 52-0 in Dominant Home Opener

irishranter September 13, 2026 2026 Games Tagged CJ Carr, Jordan Faison

Notre Dame Beats Rice 2026

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish totally dominated the Rice Owls in their 2026 home opener at Notre Dame Stadium. It was a total thrashing by the Irish and they won 52-0.

Ranked No. 3 in the country, Notre Dame wasted virtually no time taking control of the game. The Irish scored just 14 seconds into the afternoon and continued piling on points throughout the first half before cruising through the second half with their backups getting valuable playing time.

The victory moved Notre Dame to 2-0 on the season and gave the Irish consecutive convincing wins to open the year after their 41-13 victory over Wisconsin at Lambeau Field.

Notre Dame Defense Sets the Tone Immediately

The game was essentially headed in one direction from the opening series.

Rice running back Davis Lane fumbled after being hit by Notre Dame safety Adon Shuler, and defensive lineman Boubacar Traore scooped up the loose ball and raced 24 yards for a touchdown.

It took only 14 seconds for Notre Dame to grab a 7-0 lead.

That play established the tone for what became an outstanding afternoon for the Irish defense. Notre Dame forced four turnovers, all of them fumbles, and converted those takeaways into 21 points.

The Irish defense also recorded eight tackles for loss while keeping Rice from finding any rhythm offensively.

Rice finished with only 128 total yards, including just 64 passing yards. The Owls managed only seven first downs and never found the end zone.

The ability to create turnovers while simultaneously limiting big plays was one of the biggest reasons Notre Dame was able to turn the game into a rout so quickly.

C.J. Carr Continues Strong Start to the Season

Quarterback C.J. Carr was once again one of the biggest stars for the Fighting Irish.

Carr completed 16 of 20 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns before giving way to Noah Grubbs in the third quarter. His accuracy and decision-making helped Notre Dame move the ball consistently throughout the first half.

Head coach Marcus Freeman praised Carr’s command of the offense following the game, particularly his ability to make the correct reads, protections and checks at the line of scrimmage.

Carr’s performance also continued what has been an impressive beginning to the 2026 season for the junior quarterback.

Against Rice, Carr connected with several different receivers and helped Notre Dame build a 42-0 halftime advantage.

Jordan Faison Makes His Presence Felt

Wide receiver Jordan Faison was another major contributor to the offensive explosion.

Faison caught four passes for 54 yards and two touchdowns, with both scores coming from Carr during the first quarter.

His first touchdown was a 25-yard reception that pushed Notre Dame’s lead to 14-0. The pair connected again later in the opening period on an 11-yard touchdown pass.

Faison’s ability to create separation and make plays in the red zone gave Carr a reliable target and helped Notre Dame quickly put the game out of reach.

Even more encouraging for the Irish offense was the overall distribution of the football. Twelve different Notre Dame receivers recorded catches, showing the depth available in the passing game.

Nolan James Jr. Scores Twice

The Irish ground game also contributed to the offensive showcase.

Running back Nolan James Jr. scored two touchdowns in the second quarter, both coming on one-yard runs.

James’ two short touchdown runs helped Notre Dame turn its early 21-0 advantage into a 35-0 lead before halftime.

The Irish didn’t need to rely on one running back throughout the afternoon. Jonaz Walton led Notre Dame with 48 rushing yards on eight carries, while Aneyas Williams and James each finished with 29 rushing yards.

That kind of distribution allowed Notre Dame to keep its running backs fresh while continuing to control the game.

More Big Plays Before Halftime

Notre Dame continued attacking even after establishing a huge lead.

With just over a minute remaining in the first half, Carr connected with Micah Gilbert for a 39-yard touchdown. The big play pushed the Irish advantage to 42-0 heading into halftime.

That first-half performance was particularly impressive considering Notre Dame had already established complete control on both sides of the ball.

The Irish entered halftime having turned Rice’s mistakes into points while repeatedly finding ways to create explosive plays on offense.

Cooper Flanagan Adds Another Touchdown

Carr remained in the game early in the third quarter and added another touchdown pass to the stat sheet.

This time, tight end Cooper Flanagan caught a two-yard touchdown pass, increasing Notre Dame’s lead to 49-0.

Carr was then replaced by Grubbs, allowing Notre Dame to give its backup players meaningful snaps with the outcome no longer in doubt.

Spencer Porath added a 36-yard field goal later in the third quarter to complete the scoring.

Notre Dame ultimately held Rice scoreless for all four quarters.

A Complete Performance From the Fighting Irish

The final statistics illustrated just how thoroughly Notre Dame controlled the afternoon.

The Irish finished with 478 total yards, compared with only 128 for Rice. Notre Dame also held a substantial advantage through the air, producing 360 passing yards compared with Rice’s 64.

The Irish defense forced four turnovers and did not commit a turnover of its own.

Notre Dame also played a relatively clean game, committing only two penalties for 20 yards.

Perhaps most importantly, the Fighting Irish never allowed Rice to build momentum.

After the opening defensive touchdown, Notre Dame’s offense quickly turned the game into a rout. By halftime, the Irish had scored 42 points and effectively removed any doubt about the outcome.

Notre Dame Looks Ready for a Big 2026 Season

The 52-0 victory gives Notre Dame a 2-0 record and provides plenty of encouragement heading into the next portion of the schedule.

The Irish have now defeated Wisconsin and Rice by a combined score of 93-13.

While Rice presented a different challenge than Wisconsin, Notre Dame handled the Owls exactly as a top-three team would be expected to handle an opponent.

The offense was explosive, Carr continued to look comfortable running the attack, multiple receivers made contributions and the defense created turnovers while pitching a shutout.

There is still a long season ahead, but the first two games have given Notre Dame fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic.

The biggest takeaway from the Rice game may be the overall depth of the roster. Notre Dame was able to build a massive lead, get contributions from numerous players and give younger players valuable experience without sacrificing its defensive intensity.

For a team with championship aspirations, that’s an excellent way to open the home schedule.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame vs. Rice FAQ

What was the final score of Notre Dame vs. Rice in 2026?
Notre Dame defeated Rice 52-0 on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

Who was Notre Dame’s quarterback against Rice?
C.J. Carr started at quarterback for Notre Dame. He completed 16 of 20 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns before leaving the game in the third quarter.

How many touchdowns did C.J. Carr throw?
Carr threw four touchdown passes against Rice. He connected with Jordan Faison twice, Micah Gilbert once and Cooper Flanagan once.

Who led Notre Dame in receiving against Rice?
Jordan Faison led the Irish receiving corps with four catches for 54 yards and two touchdowns.

Who scored Notre Dame’s first touchdown?
Defensive lineman Boubacar Traore scored Notre Dame’s first touchdown after recovering a fumble and returning it 24 yards for a touchdown.

How did Notre Dame force the first turnover?
Safety Adon Shuler forced a fumble by Rice running back Davis Lane on the second play of the game. Traore recovered the ball and returned it for a touchdown.

How many turnovers did Notre Dame force?
The Irish defense forced four Rice turnovers, all on fumbles. Notre Dame converted those turnovers into 21 points.

Who scored Notre Dame’s rushing touchdowns?
Nolan James Jr. scored two rushing touchdowns, both on one-yard runs.

How many yards did Notre Dame gain against Rice?
Notre Dame finished with 478 total yards, including 360 passing yards and 118 rushing yards.

What was Notre Dame’s record after beating Rice?
The victory improved Notre Dame’s record to 2-0 to begin the 2026 season.

Did Notre Dame shut out Rice?
Yes. Notre Dame’s defense held Rice scoreless in all four quarters to record a 52-0 shutout.

What was the biggest takeaway from Notre Dame’s win?
The most encouraging aspect was the complete nature of the performance. Notre Dame dominated offensively, forced four turnovers, controlled the line of scrimmage and allowed its backups to gain significant playing time after building a huge halftime lead.

Notre Dame Overwhelms Wisconsin 41-13 After Explosive Second Half at Lambeau Field

irishranter September 7, 2026 2026 Games Tagged Aneyas Williams, CJ Carr, James Flanigan, Notre Dame vs Wisconsin

Notre Dame Beats Wisconsin at Lambeau

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish opened the 2026 season with a statement victory Sunday night, defeating the Wisconsin Badgers 41-13 at historic Lambeau Field in Green Bay.

The final score made the game look like a comfortable Notre Dame victory from start to finish. It wasn’t.

For much of the first half, Wisconsin gave the fourth-ranked Irish everything they could handle. Notre Dame’s offense struggled to find consistency, the Badgers controlled stretches of the game and Wisconsin went into halftime believing it had a legitimate chance to pull off a major upset.

Then the second half arrived.

Notre Dame completely changed the complexion of the game, outscoring Wisconsin 28-3 after halftime and turning what had been a competitive contest into a convincing Irish victory.

Notre Dame Struggles to Find Its Rhythm Early

The first half was hardly the dominant performance Notre Dame fans were expecting.

Wisconsin’s defense did a good job limiting the Irish running game and keeping quarterback C.J. Carr from getting into a comfortable rhythm. Notre Dame managed only 1.8 yards per rush in the first half, while the Irish were held without a third-down conversion during the opening two quarters.

Wisconsin also made several plays that gave the Badgers momentum.

Notre Dame did manage to strike first with a touchdown from Carr to James Flanigan, but Wisconsin answered with a touchdown of its own when Malachi Coleman hauled in a 28-yard touchdown pass from Colton Joseph.

The Badgers entered halftime trailing just 13-10.

Considering Notre Dame was a three-touchdown favorite entering the game, Wisconsin had to be feeling pretty good about its position.

The Irish, however, were about to put together a completely different performance.

The Second-Half Notre Dame Team Finally Appears

Whatever Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and his staff said in the locker room at halftime appeared to work.

The Irish came out of the locker room with considerably more energy and execution on both sides of the football.

Notre Dame immediately began finding openings in the Wisconsin defense, while the Irish defense became increasingly disruptive against the Badgers’ offense.

The difference was striking: Notre Dame averaged 7.4 yards per play after halftime and Wisconsin managed only 1.4 yards per rushing attempt during the second half.

The Irish took control with a long third-quarter drive that ended with Aneyas Williams punching the ball into the end zone.

Then came the play that effectively broke the game open.

Wisconsin quarterback Colton Joseph attempted to make a play downfield, but Notre Dame cornerback DJ McKinney intercepted the pass and raced 55 yards for a touchdown.

Just like that, a 20-10 Notre Dame lead became 27-10.

Wisconsin never truly recovered.

Aneyas Williams Provides the Spark on the Ground

One of the biggest positives for Notre Dame was the performance of running back Aneyas Williams.

Williams carried the ball 20 times for 90 yards and scored two touchdowns, providing the Irish with a dependable presence in the running game as the night progressed.

His biggest impact came in the second half, when Notre Dame’s offensive line began creating more room and Williams took advantage.

After struggling to consistently run the football early, the Irish finally began generating chunk plays on the ground. Williams’ ability to keep the Wisconsin defense honest helped open up opportunities for Carr and the passing game.

His two touchdowns were exactly what Notre Dame needed to turn its second-half momentum into points.

C.J. Carr Delivers a Strong Opening Performance

Carr’s night was another encouraging sign for the Irish.

The junior quarterback completed 19 of 29 passes for 239 yards, throwing two touchdowns without an interception. Even though the offense wasn’t particularly sharp in the first half, Carr remained composed and eventually began finding more opportunities downfield.

He connected with nine different Notre Dame receivers, showing just how many weapons the Irish can utilize in the passing game.

Carr’s final numbers were solid, but the most encouraging aspect may have been the way he responded after a relatively quiet first half.

As Notre Dame’s offense began clicking after halftime, Carr became more aggressive and efficient.

Jordan Faison Leads the Irish Receiving Attack

Jordan Faison was one of Carr’s most important targets throughout the night.

Faison finished with four receptions for 81 yards, including a 30-yard reception that helped demonstrate the big-play potential of Notre Dame’s receiving corps.

His ability to stretch the field gave Wisconsin another problem to deal with once the Irish running game started getting going.

Notre Dame’s passing attack ultimately became much more balanced as the game progressed, with multiple receivers making meaningful contributions.

James Flanigan Has a Special Night at Lambeau

Few players had a more memorable night than James Flanigan.

The Green Bay native caught Notre Dame’s first touchdown of the night on a three-yard reception from Carr, giving the Irish an early 10-3 advantage.

Flanigan’s touchdown was particularly meaningful because his father and grandfather, both named Jim Flanigan, played for the Green Bay Packers. Scoring a touchdown at Lambeau Field in front of his hometown crowd made the moment even more special.

It was a perfect storyline for a game being played at one of the most iconic venues in American football.

Nolan James Jr. Adds the Finishing Touch

With the outcome essentially decided, Notre Dame wasn’t finished.

Carr connected with Nolan James Jr. for a 28-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter, pushing the Irish lead to 40-13 before the extra point.

James Jr. also contributed on the ground, finishing with seven carries for 19 yards while adding four receptions for 67 yards.

His late touchdown provided the final offensive highlight of an impressive second-half performance.

DJ McKinney’s Pick-Six Changes Everything

While Notre Dame’s offense deserves plenty of credit, DJ McKinney may have delivered the game’s biggest individual defensive play.

His 55-yard interception return for a touchdown came early in the third quarter and completely changed the momentum.

Wisconsin had already seen Notre Dame begin to pull away, but the pick-six turned a competitive game into a potential blowout.

From there, the Irish defense continued to make life difficult for the Badgers.

Notre Dame finished the game with two takeaways while Wisconsin turned the ball over twice.

Notre Dame’s Defense Takes Over After Halftime

The defensive performance was particularly impressive considering Wisconsin had success moving the ball early.

Once the Irish adjusted, however, Wisconsin struggled to sustain drives.

The Badgers finished with 284 total yards, while Notre Dame’s defense held them to just 1.4 yards per rushing attempt during the second half.

The Irish also received important contributions from the defensive front, including a sack from Boubacar Traore and another from Femi Brewu late in the contest.

The secondary also made the biggest play of the game with McKinney’s interception return.

Notre Dame’s defense wasn’t perfect, but it became significantly more physical and disruptive as the night progressed.

The Numbers Tell the Story

The final statistics illustrate just how dramatically the game changed.

Notre Dame finished with 350 total yards compared with Wisconsin’s 284, but the most important number was the scoring margin after halftime.

Notre Dame 28, Wisconsin 3.

That second-half explosion turned a three-point halftime lead into a 28-point victory.

The Irish also finished with 20 first downs compared with Wisconsin’s 16 and averaged 5.7 yards per play for the game. Most importantly, Notre Dame protected the football and finished with zero turnovers.

A Promising Start to the 2026 Season

Notre Dame didn’t play a perfect game at Lambeau Field.

In fact, the first half exposed some areas the Irish will need to clean up.

The running game was inconsistent early. The offense struggled on third down. Wisconsin’s defense was able to disrupt Notre Dame’s rhythm and keep the game within one possession for most of the first half.

But the response was exactly what Notre Dame needed.

The Irish came out of halftime and looked like a completely different football team.

Carr settled in. Williams found running room. Faison made big plays. James contributed a late touchdown. McKinney delivered a momentum-changing pick-six. And the Notre Dame defense gradually took control of the game.

That’s what made the 41-13 victory so encouraging.

Notre Dame didn’t simply beat Wisconsin. The Irish weathered a difficult first half, made adjustments and then dominated the final 30 minutes.

The victory gives Notre Dame a 1-0 start to the 2026 season and provides plenty of momentum heading into next week’s matchup with Rice.

If the Irish can build on the football they played in the second half at Lambeau Field, Notre Dame could be in for a very interesting season.

Check out the game highlights:

Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin 2026 FAQ

What was the final score of Notre Dame vs. Wisconsin?
Notre Dame defeated Wisconsin 41-13 on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Did Notre Dame struggle against Wisconsin in the first half?
Yes. Notre Dame had a relatively slow start offensively and led Wisconsin only 13-10 at halftime. The Badgers were able to keep the Irish offense from finding much consistency during the opening two quarters.

How did Notre Dame pull away from Wisconsin?
The Irish made significant adjustments at halftime and dominated the second half. Notre Dame outscored Wisconsin 28-3 after halftime, with the offense becoming more effective while the defense created turnovers and consistently pressured the Badgers.

Who was Notre Dame’s leading rusher against Wisconsin?
Aneyas Williams led Notre Dame’s rushing attack with 90 yards on 20 carries and scored two touchdowns. His production became particularly important as the Irish established more of a running game in the second half.

How did C.J. Carr play against Wisconsin?
C.J. Carr had a strong overall performance, completing 19 of 29 passes for 239 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Carr became more effective as the game progressed and helped Notre Dame’s offense explode in the second half.

Who led Notre Dame in receiving?
Jordan Faison led the Irish with four receptions for 81 yards. He also had Notre Dame’s longest reception of the night, a 30-yard catch.

Which Notre Dame defensive player had the biggest play?
DJ McKinney provided one of the biggest plays of the game when he intercepted Wisconsin quarterback Colton Joseph and returned the interception 55 yards for a touchdown. The pick-six helped Notre Dame seize control of the game in the third quarter.

Who scored Notre Dame’s first touchdown?
James Flanigan caught a three-yard touchdown pass from C.J. Carr in the first quarter for Notre Dame’s opening touchdown. The touchdown was especially memorable because Flanigan is from Green Bay and his family has strong ties to the Green Bay Packers.

What was the biggest difference between the first and second halves?
Notre Dame’s execution improved dramatically after halftime. The Irish became more effective running the football, Carr and the passing game found more opportunities, and the defense became increasingly disruptive. The result was a 28-3 advantage for Notre Dame in the second half.

What is Notre Dame’s record after beating Wisconsin?
The victory moved Notre Dame to 1-0 to begin the 2026 college football season. The Irish will next face the Rice Owls on September 12.