Photo via Fox Sports

Bear Bachmeier Reveals Personal Motivation Behind BYU's Upset Win Over Notre Dame

BYU quarterback **Bear Bachmeier** turned a personal recruiting grievance into a historic upset, leading the Cougars to a 28-24 victory over No. 2 Notre Dame in a game fueled by years of pent-up motivation.

Bachmeier, who nearly committed to the Fighting Irish before feeling sidelined during his visit, revealed postgame that Notre Dame’s staff allegedly dismissed him and his family, leaving him determined to prove them wrong. His performance—23-of-36 passing for 224 yards, a touchdown, and two rushing scores—culminated in a clutch six-yard pass to Walker Lyons with 1:47 left, sealing BYU’s first-ever win over Notre Dame and the program’s biggest triumph in history.

The win vaulted the Cougars to No. 2 in the AP Poll, their highest ranking since 1984, while Bachmeier’s emotional drive became the defining factor in a game that transcended the scoreboard.

The rivalry’s roots trace back to Bachmeier’s recruitment, where Notre Dame’s focus reportedly shifted to five-star recruit Deuce Knight after his initial interest. Knight later decommitted and joined Auburn, clearing the path for Bachmeier to commit to BYU, where he’s since thrived as a starter, leading the team to a 12-2 record and a Pop-Tarts Bowl win.

With the recruiting drama resolved and a standout season under his belt, Bachmeier’s victory carried the weight of closure—and a message to those who once underestimated him.

Up nextCollege Football· 2h ago

Notre Dame slides back a bit in both the AP Top 25 and the Coaches Poll