Notre Dame was the No. 5-ranked team in the country. The Fighting Irish were favored by as many as 28 points. They were fresh off a double-digit win over Texas A&M on the road.
And Northern Illinois of the MAC beat them.
The Huskies went ahead in the final minute on a 35-yard field goal by Kanon Woodill and blocked the Fighting Irish’s last-second field goal to hold on for a 16-15 victory at Notre Dame on Saturday, Sept. 7.
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What’s The Biggest Upset In Northern Illinois History?
Northern Illinois’ win over Notre Dame marks the biggest upset in school history. NIU had never defeated a team ranked in the top five in the FBS.
That was, until NIU shocked the college football world with a triumph over Notre Dame.
Northern Illinois Defensive Stats
Northern Illinois gave up just 14 points and 286 yards on defense.
The Huskies’ defense was phenomenal throughout the matchup. They forced the Fighting Irish to go 3 of 10 on third downs.
NIU intercepted Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard twice as he was 20 of 32 for 163 yards and no touchdowns through the air, though he did run for a touchdown. The Fighting Irish as a team ran for 123 yards, averaging 4.4 yards per carry.
Northern Illinois Offensive Stats
NIU outgained Notre Dame 388-286. Though they were 6 of 17 on third downs, the Huskies also didn’t turn the ball over.
NIU quarterback Ethan Hampton was the leader for the Huskies offense. He made critical plays, including a run on fourth down late in the game to sustain a drive that ended with the game-winning field goal.
Hampton threw for 198 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions on 10-for-19 passing while rushing for 21 yards.
Antario Brown was the star for NIU, though he was in and out of the game late. He ran for 99 yards on 20 carries and led the team with 126 yards and a touchdown on two receptions.
Northern Illinois’ Game Next Week
Northern Illinois (2-0) has a bye next weekend and continues the season with a game against Buffalo at home on Sept. 21.
NIU started the season with a 54-15 victory over Western Illinois.
