Bear Bachmeier Leads BYU Over Notre Dame
The quarterback recorded passing, rushing, and receiving touchdowns to secure a 28-24 victory against Notre Dame.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier fueled a 28-24 win over Notre Dame by scoring touchdowns through the air, on the ground, and as a receiver. He is the first FBS player in 30 years to achieve this triple feat against an AP top-five opponent.
Why it matters
Bachmeier's historic performance solidified a comeback win for the Cougars, proving instrumental in toppling a highly ranked opponent. This rare offensive versatility highlights the unique challenges he presents to defensive schemes.
Bachmeier completed 23 of 36 passes for 224 yards and carried the ball 13 times for 45 yards. He also logged two rushing touchdowns of 5 and 1 yards, a 15-yard receiving score, and a 6-yard passing touchdown.
The players
Bear Bachmeier
He is the BYU quarterback who recorded rushing, passing, and receiving touchdowns in a single game.
Walker Lyons
He is the BYU player who caught the decisive 6-yard go-ahead touchdown pass from Bear Bachmeier.
Kyler Kasper
He is the BYU player who threw the 15-yard touchdown pass to Bear Bachmeier.
Steve Young
He is a legendary former BYU quarterback who previously achieved the feat of recording passing, rushing, and receiving touchdowns in 1983.
The details
Bachmeier's decisive go-ahead touchdown came on a 6-yard pass to Walker Lyons with just 1:47 remaining in the contest. Earlier in the game, he also caught a 15-yard throwback touchdown pass from teammate Kyler Kasper.
Timeline
The game concluded on October 17, 2026.
The go-ahead score occurred with 1:47 left in the game.
Steve Young performed the same statistical feat for BYU in 1983.
Season Trajectory
This victory significantly elevates BYU's standing in the current college football season by upsetting a top-five opponent. The win potentially shifts the team into a more favorable position within the national playoff rankings.
Bachmeier finished the game with 224 passing yards and 45 rushing yards, providing a massive boost for fantasy rosters requiring versatile production. His usage as both a receiver and a passer creates a unique rotation concern for future defensive coordinators.
The takeaway
Versatile playmakers who can contribute in every phase of the offense are becoming increasingly valuable in modern collegiate football. Fans can look for teams to integrate more creative schemes that leverage the unique athleticism of their quarterbacks.
Further reading
For more on local collegiate athletics, read the latest Football news.
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