Miami Hurricanes Upset Notre Dame Fighting Irish in Season Opener

In a highly anticipated season opener, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes defeated the No. 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish 27-24 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on August 31, 2025. This victory marked Miami's first win against a top-10 opponent since 2017, snapping an eight-game losing streak against ranked teams. The game was characterized by a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback from Notre Dame, which ultimately fell short.

Miami HeraldThe Palm Beach Post247SportsUSA TodaySports IllustratedGame Day Central: No. 6 Notre Dame football vs. No. 10 Miami Hurricanes

Miami's quarterback Carson Beck, making his debut after transferring from Georgia, completed 20 of 30 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns. His standout moment came when he connected with Malachi Toney for a 28-yard touchdown in the second quarter, giving Miami an early lead. The Hurricanes extended their advantage with a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch by CJ Daniels just before halftime, which put them ahead 14-7.

247SportsNo. 10 Miami (Fla.) Digs in Late, Tops No. 6 Notre Dame in 27-24 ThrillerMiami hangs on to beat Notre Dame 27-24 in another classic in the rivalryESPNUSA TodayESPN

The second half saw Miami continue to build momentum with a 75-yard touchdown drive capped by a five-yard run from CharMar Brown, increasing their lead to 21-7. However, Notre Dame, led by redshirt freshman quarterback CJ Carr, rallied back. Carr threw for 221 yards, two touchdowns, and rushed for another score, tying the game at 24-24 with just over three minutes remaining.

Notre Dame comeback falls short at Miami despite late heroics from QB CJ Carr247SportsNo. 10 Miami (Fla.) Digs in Late, Tops No. 6 Notre Dame in 27-24 ThrillerNotre Dame Falls In A Last-Second Thriller At Miami FLNew York TimesMiami Herald

With the game tied, Miami executed a crucial drive that culminated in a 47-yard field goal by Carter Davis with 1:04 left on the clock. The Hurricanes' defense then held firm, with back-to-back sacks from Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor sealing the victory as time expired. Miami's defense, which had struggled in previous seasons, showed resilience, forcing two turnovers and limiting Notre Dame's running game.

South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Miami head coach Mario Cristobal expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, “This game, this victory is for everybody... Tremendously proud of this team, the resiliency, complementary football.” Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman acknowledged the effort of his players, saying, “The effort was there,” while also noting the need for improvement in future games.

South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Despite the thrilling finish, Notre Dame's performance raised concerns, particularly regarding their offensive strategy. Critics pointed out that star running back Jeremiyah Love received only ten carries, limiting the effectiveness of the run game. Additionally, the Irish's conservative play-calling early in the game was questioned, as it seemed to hinder Carr's ability to find rhythm.

Sports Illustrated

Following this loss, Notre Dame will host Texas A&M on September 13, 2025, while Miami prepares to face Bethune-Cookman in their next matchup. Both teams will need to address their respective shortcomings as they aim for successful seasons in pursuit of College Football Playoff aspirations.

247Sports

• “It's just an unbelievable night,” — Mario Cristobal, Head Coach, Miami Hurricanes

ESPN

• “CJ Carr came out there and played a hell of a game and competed for them.” — Carson Beck, Quarterback, Miami Hurricanes

Sports Illustrated

• “The effort was there,” — Marcus Freeman, Head Coach, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

ESPN

This thrilling encounter not only showcased the storied rivalry between Miami and Notre Dame but also set the stage for an exciting 2025 college football season.

USA Today