Photo via CBS Sports

BYU spent decades fighting for respect, and a win over Notre Dame finally delivered it

Brigham Young University’s football program achieved a historic milestone with a 28-24 victory over No. 2 Notre Dame, marking the first time the Cougars have defeated a top-tier opponent in a nationally televised game.

The win, secured late in the fourth quarter with a touchdown pass from quarterback Bear Bachmeier, silenced long-standing doubts about BYU’s ability to compete against elite programs. For decades, the Cougars have operated outside the mainstream of college football, despite their success on the field, including a national championship and multiple playoff appearances that were overlooked by the selection committee.

The game took place at LaVell Edwards Stadium, where the atmosphere erupted as fans stormed the field after the final whistle, celebrating a moment that had eluded BYU for generations. The victory also underscored the Cougars’ dominance in recent years, as BYU ranks among the most successful programs since 2024, despite operating with a roster budget far smaller than Notre Dame’s.

For longtime fan Steve Penrose, the win was a lifelong dream fulfilled, representing a long-overdue recognition of BYU’s place among the sport’s elite.

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