Notre Dame Football Runs over Rice in Home Opener
Notre Dame forced three fumbles and scored on defense 14 seconds into the game as CJ Carr completed 10 of his first 11 passes.
- On Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, fifth-ranked Notre Dame defeated Rice 52-0 in its home opener at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. The Fighting Irish outgained the Owls 478-128 in total yardage.
- Notre Dame's defense forced three fumbles before the offense took a snap, setting an immediate advantage. Linebacker Boubacar Traore returned one 24 yards for a touchdown just 14 seconds into the game.
- Quarterback CJ Carr completed 16 of 20 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns, connecting twice with Jordan Faison for scores. Running back Nolan James Jr. added two rushing touchdowns.
- Freshman Noah Grubbs entered the game in the third quarter for his first college action, providing clarity on the backup quarterback position. He guided a drive capped by a 36-yard field goal from kicker Spencer Porath.
- With a 2-0 record, the Irish will host Michigan State next week in the first meeting between the rivals since 2017. This matchup opens a two-game Big Ten stretch for Notre Dame.
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thesportsleader.comCJ Carr helps No. 3 Notre Dame trounce Rice
CJ Carr completed 16 of 20 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns, and No. 3 Notre Dame cruised to a 52-0 win over Rice on Saturday afternoon in South Bend, Ind.Jordan Faison caught two touchdown passes for Notre Dame (2-0), which was playing its hom...
Notre Dame Post-Game Show - Irish Dominate Rice In Home Opener
Notre Dame improved to 2-0 with a dominant 52-0 win over Rice. The IB team breaks it all down as the Irish end their home opener drought! Join the Irish Breakdown premium message board: https://boards.irishbreakdown.com Subscribe to the Irish Breakdown podcast on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/irish-breakdown/id1485286986 Like and follow Irish Breakdown on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/irishbreakdown Shop for Irish Bre…
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