What was expected to be a straightforward match for Notre Dame — a home game against a Mid-American Conference rival following a significant season-opening victory over then-No. 20 Texas A&M — turned into a surprising upset.
Despite being favored by four touchdowns, the Fighting Irish fell to Northern Illinois 16-14 at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday. Kanon Woodill secured the win for the Huskies with a 35-yard field goal with just 31 seconds left. Notre Dame’s Mitch Jeter had a chance to win the game with a 62-yard field goal, but his attempt was blocked, and time ran out before the Irish could recover.
Just a week after looking poised for a strong run at the 12-team College Football Playoff, Notre Dame is now facing a much bleaker and uncertain outlook.
Compounding the disappointment of the loss, Notre Dame will have to pay Northern Illinois a hefty sum for the game. According to a contract obtained by the USA TODAY Network, the Fighting Irish owe the Huskies $1.4 million, which must be paid within 60 days of the game’s conclusion. This agreement was signed in February 2019.
Notre Dame has additional financial commitments this season, including a planned payout of $1.25 million to Miami (Ohio) when they host the team on September 21. The RedHawks, last season’s MAC champions, are considered strong contenders in the league.
This defeat marks not the first time Notre Dame has spent significant sums only to lose to Group of Five opponents at home. In 2022, under head coach Marcus Freeman, the Irish experienced a similar fate, losing 26-21 to Marshall after paying them $1.25 million for the game.