Northern Illinois University (NIU) achieved a historic victory by defeating No. 5 ranked Notre Dame 16-14 on September 7, 2024, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. This win marks the first time in the program’s history that the Huskies have triumphed over a Top 5 ranked team. Prior to this, their highest-ranking defeat was against No. 15 Maryland in 2003.
The Huskies managed to secure their first victory over a ranked non-conference opponent since a win against No. 21 Alabama in 2003. Furthermore, this win stands as the first by a Mid-American Conference (MAC) team against a Top 5 ranked opponent and is noted as the 19th “Boneyard Win” in NIU’s annals, referring to victories over power conference teams and notable independents like Notre Dame and BYU.
Notably, an impressive 83-yard catch and run by NIU tied for the eighth longest pass play in the school’s history. This play was the longest pass completion since 2008 and marked the first career 100-yard receiving game for the running back, a feat not achieved by a Huskies running back since Garrett Wolfe in 2006. The defense also made a significant impact, with a player blocking two field goals, showcasing a defensive prowess that resulted in a total offensive output of 388 yards for the Huskies compared to 286 for the Irish.
Head coach expressed immense pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of hard work and unity. He highlighted the significance of the win for the program and called for increased support from fans. Quarterback Ethan Hampton reflected on the monumental nature of the victory, while special teams player Kanon Woodill discussed the pressure and excitement surrounding the game-winning field goal.
Antario Brown, who had an outstanding performance, credited the offensive coordinator for utilizing effective plays that allowed him to shine. The team’s collective effort and determination were evident in their performance, marking a pivotal moment in NIU football history.