BYU Rises to No. 2 in AP Poll After Upset Win Over Notre Dame

The BYU Cougars secured one of the most monumental victories in program history during Week 7, defeating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 28-24. Following the upset, BYU climbed to No. 2 in the latest Associated Press poll, capturing its highest ranking since winning the national championship in 1984.

Quarterback Bear Bachmeier orchestrated the crucial win by showcasing a versatile and physical style of play. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 230 pounds, Bachmeier delivered a historic performance, becoming the first player in the last 30 seasons to score as a passer, rusher, and receiver against a top-5 opponent. His contributions included a 15-yard touchdown reception on a trick play in the second quarter, alongside two rushing touchdowns in the first half.

Despite completing 27 of 49 passes for 261 yards, Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr struggled with accuracy downfield, completing just 3 of 16 throws traveling 15 or more air yards. A fumbled spike attempt at the end of the first half also proved costly for the Fighting Irish as they suffered the narrow four-point defeat on the road.

With a pristine 6-0 record, BYU now prepares to put its undefeated streak on the line in Week 8 against the UCF Knights. While the Cougars celebrate their new national standing, analysts note that the team will need to remain focused as they navigate the remainder of their Big 12 schedule.

Meanwhile, Notre Dame continues to look ahead at future schedule adjustments and development under head coach Marcus Freeman. The program recently announced that it will open the 2027 season at home against Kent State on August 28, marking the first time since the 2020 COVID-19 season that the Fighting Irish will begin a campaign inside Notre Dame Stadium.