In a thrilling season opener, the University of Notre Dame football team defeated Texas A&M 23-13 at Kyle Field on Saturday evening, showcasing a strong defensive performance and a decisive final drive. Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love led the rushing attack with 91 yards on 14 carries, while Riley Leonard contributed 63 rushing yards and 158 passing yards. Jack Kiser and Jordan Bothelho were standout defenders, with Kiser notching eight tackles and Bothelho a career-high six tackles. The Irish defense also recorded interceptions by Xavier Watts and Adon Shuler, limiting Texas A&M to just 100 passing yards.
The game began with both teams scoring field goals on their opening drives, with Texas A&M converting from 34 yards and Notre Dame’s Mitch Jeter getting a 46-yarder. The Irish’s drive was aided by a pivotal third down scramble from Leonard and a targeting penalty against A&M. However, A&M took an early lead at 6-3 after making a 49-yard field goal less than a minute into the second quarter.
Notre Dame fought back, recovering the ball after Shuler’s interception, but their drive stalled; Jeter tied the game at 6-6 with a 26-yard field goal. Both defenses shined in the first half, highlighted by a notable interception by Watts just before halftime, keeping the score even at 6-6.
The second half saw Notre Dame regain momentum. They scored a touchdown with a spectacular 47-yard run from Jadarian Price after a strong offensive effort. The Irish defense continued to hold strong, but Texas A&M tied the game again with a short touchdown run.
With the score tied, Notre Dame orchestrated an impressive eight-play, 85-yard drive in the final six minutes of the game. Love broke through for the game-winning 21-yard touchdown run, giving the Irish a lead. The defense then sealed the victory with a four-and-out, allowing Jeter to add a 46-yard field goal for the final score of 23-13.