By Pete Sampson, Stewart Mandel, and Justin Williams
On Saturday in South Bend, No. 5 Notre Dame experienced a stunning upset, losing 16-14 to Northern Illinois after failing to convert a 62-yard field goal on the final play of the game.
Despite being 28.5-point favorites per BetMGM, this game marked the first time NIU has defeated a top-10 team in school history.
Following an interception by Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard while holding a slim 14-13 lead, NIU capitalized by driving 31 yards in 11 plays and securing a 35-yard field goal from Kanon Woodill to take the lead with 31 seconds remaining. The Huskies’ victory marked a milestone in their program’s history.
One week after a solid 23-13 win at Texas A&M, Notre Dame’s dreams of a College Football Playoff spot took a significant hit with this unexpected loss. This defeat is the second time the Fighting Irish have lost at home to a Group of 5 opponent under third-year coach Marcus Freeman.
Freeman expressed his disappointment after the game, stating, “It’s our job as coaches to make sure these guys are ready to go. I’ve always said performance is a reflection of preparation.”
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Notre Dame suffers stunning upset to NIU: How did everything go so wrong for Irish?
What happened to Notre Dame?
The loss to NIU has significantly impacted Notre Dame’s College Football Playoff chances, dropping them to 34% from 73% in The Athletic‘s model after Week 2.
Despite a promising start to the season, Notre Dame’s struggles raise questions about the team’s direction under Freeman, especially after the previous week’s triumph over Texas A&M. Freeman’s third-year tenure at Notre Dame is now facing intensified scrutiny.
With the loss to NIU, Notre Dame’s objectives for the season and Freeman’s leadership are under increased scrutiny. Questions arise concerning the team’s ability to recover from this setback against a Group of 5 opponent, similar to their loss to Marshall in 2022. The pressure is on Freeman to address these issues and lead the team to success.
Notre Dame’s offense deflates Playoff hopes
Notre Dame’s offense, led by Leonard, failed to deliver for the second consecutive week, emphasizing the team’s weaknesses in the passing game. The inability to generate significant yardage and scores ultimately cost Notre Dame the game against NIU.
Denbrock’s arrival as offensive coordinator was expected to address these offensive concerns, but the results have not materialized yet. The lackluster performance against NIU raises doubts about Notre Dame’s ability to contend for a Playoff spot.
NIU scores biggest win in program history
NIU’s victory over Notre Dame marks a historic achievement for the program, surpassing previous notable victories. This win against a top-five opponent elevates NIU’s status within the college football landscape.
Coach Thomas Hammock’s leadership has propelled NIU to this significant victory, setting a new standard for the team’s aspirations moving forward. The win provides momentum for NIU’s future season.
Notre Dame has a quarterback problem
Saturday’s game highlighted Notre Dame’s quarterback struggles, particularly in the passing game. Leonard’s performance as a passer did not meet expectations, raising concerns about his ability to lead the team effectively.
Leonard’s development as a passer will be crucial for Notre Dame’s success throughout the season. The team must address these issues promptly to remain competitive in their upcoming games.
Why Notre Dame’s defense struggled
Notre Dame’s defense, which performed admirably in the previous game against Texas A&M, faced challenges against NIU’s offense. Defensive lapses, especially against misdirection plays, exposed weaknesses in the Irish linebackers’ performance.
The defense’s struggles against NIU highlight areas for improvement, particularly in defending against deceptive offensive schemes. Notre Dame’s coaching staff faces the task of addressing these defensive issues ahead of their next game.
What’s next?
Notre Dame will face Purdue next week in an in-state rivalry matchup, followed by games against Miami (OH) and Louisville. NIU will celebrate its victory before preparing for matchups against Buffalo and NC State.
(Photo: Brian Spurlock / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
