College Football9 Nov 20262 minute read

Notre Dame Edges Miami 31-24 After Channeling 1988 History

Notre Dame built a big lead and held off Miami for a 31-24 victory on Saturday night.

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Irish Hold On to Defeat Hurricanes

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman showed his players clips from the famous 1988 game against Miami to get them ready. The history lesson paid off on Saturday night as the Fighting Irish defeated top ranked Miami 31-24.

Notre Dame built a 24-3 lead early in the second half before Miami fought back. The Hurricanes scored touchdowns on three of their next four drives. A late play by Miami tight end Elija Lofton was ruled incomplete with 3:36 remaining, helping Notre Dame secure the win.

Offense Shines While Defense Adapts

Quarterback CJ Carr led the Notre Dame offense with an impressive performance. He completed 29 of 40 passes for 319 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Wide receivers Micah Gilbert and Jordan Faison combined for all three touchdown receptions. Notre Dame did not allow a sack for the sixth straight game.

The Irish defense faced some challenges when star cornerback Leonard Moore temporarily left the game with an eye injury. Defensive back Brauntae Johnson remained out with a foot injury, while linemen Francis Brewu and Jason Onye were also sidelined. Still, the front line generated 34 pressures and recorded two sacks against Miami quarterback Darian Mensah. Safety Luke Talich added a key interception.

Honoring History and Looking Ahead

Before the game, Notre Dame honored former head coach Lou Holtz, who died in March at age 89. His son, Skip Holtz, spoke to the team before kickoff.

Freeman called the result as good of a win as he has ever been a part of since becoming head coach. The victory keeps Notre Dame firmly in position to chase a national title.

What it means for the next game

Duke Blue Devils at Miami Hurricanes (College Football, Sat, 14 Nov): Miami Hurricanes win 81%, Duke Blue Devils win 19%; projected score Miami Hurricanes 34, Duke Blue Devils 21. Our safest pick: Miami to win.

Boston College Eagles at Notre Dame Fighting Irish (College Football, Sat, 14 Nov): Notre Dame Fighting Irish win 95%, Boston College Eagles win 5%; projected score Notre Dame Fighting Irish 41, Boston College Eagles 12. Our safest pick: Boston College +39.5.