Notre Dame continued its strong start to the season on Saturday, crushing visiting Rice 52-0. Quarterback C.J. Carr was the engine of the offense, completing 16 of 20 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns before being relieved by backup Noah Grubbs in the third quarter.
Offensive firepower
The Fighting Irish amassed 478 total yards, more than three times Rice’s 128 yards. Carr’s precision passing and the veteran experience of receivers like Jordan Faison, who caught four passes for 54 yards and two scores, set the tone early. Twelve different Notre Dame players recorded catches, highlighting the depth of the roster.
Defensive dominance
Notre Dame’s defense set the game’s tempo with a series of early turnovers. Safety Adon Shuler forced a fumble just 14 seconds into the contest, which Boubacar Traore recovered and returned for a 24‑yard touchdown. The Irish forced three additional fumbles in the first half, converting those opportunities into 21 points. In total, the defense recorded four turnovers and eight tackles for loss.
Coach Freeman’s praise
Head coach Marcus Freeman lauded Carr’s performance, noting his “impeccable” decision‑making and the team’s overall execution. Freeman also highlighted Shuler’s aggressive, physical style, calling it a “choice” that adds intensity and focus to the defense.
Rice’s perspective
Rice quarterback Jacurri Brown completed eight of 12 passes for 64 yards but acknowledged the turnover issues, saying, “That’s solely on us. We can control ball security.” Rice coach Scott Abell described the early fumble surge as a “recipe for disaster,” though he still believes his team can compete with top programs.
Historical note
Freeman matched legendary coach Knute Rockne’s streak of 12 consecutive double‑digit victories, a feat last achieved by Rockne’s teams in the 1921‑22 seasons.
Looking ahead
Notre Dame will host Michigan State next Saturday, while Rice prepares to welcome Western Michigan.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
