Coach Marcus Freeman's Notre Dame Fighting Irish hit the road to take on the BYU Cougars in a marquee game that saw Bear Bachmeier score an exciting rushing touchdown early. Star ND cornerback Leonard Miller suffered a concussion but got news on a possible return as the Irish fought their way back in Provo, Utah.
The Irish's CJ Carr-led offense did its best to mount a key drive as they trailed 7-3 early in the second quarter. Marcus Gilbert had one of the best catches of the day as he snagged a pass that looked headed for the sidelines, showing absurd body control in the process.
An ABSURD one-handed catch from Notre Dame WR Micah Gilbert moves the chains on third down. pic.twitter.com/5oMeLvOgqc
— Underdog CFB (@UnderdogCFB) October 18, 2026
The day included a strong start from Kalani Sitake's team after the BYU coach sent a stirring pregame message. Bachmeier's rushing touchdown fired up the Provo faithful and set the stage for Carr and his teammates to try and work their usual magic in the passing game. Nolan James Jr. gave a huge spark to the Irish in the first half, rushing for 68 yards and one score after BYU's hot start to the big game.
Article Continues BelowBYU shocked the college football world as they went up 21-10 before halftime, led by a touchdown toss from receiver Kyler Kasper to Bachmeier. The BYU QB's receiving touchdown highlighted the Cougars' willingness to pull out all the stops in pursuit of a program-redefining upset.
Gilbert's catch nonetheless stood out on an exciting day in Provo. The second half figured to be an exciting one as Carr and company looked to rally the troops in hopes of a comeback win.