Friendly reminder that Marshall Football is currently undefeated against Notre Dame.
On September 10, 2022, the Marshall Thundering Herd achieved a historic victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, winning 26–21 at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. This upset marked Marshall’s second-ever win against a top-10 ranked opponent, the first being against Kansas State in 2003. The game was particularly significant as it was the first time a Sun Belt Conference team played at Notre Dame Stadium.
Marshall entered the game as a three-touchdown underdog. The Thundering Herd’s defense played a pivotal role, with Steven Gilmore returning an interception 37 yards for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Khalan Laborn led the offense with 163 rushing yards on 31 carries. Quarterback Henry Colombi completed 16 of 21 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown.
Notre Dame, ranked No. 8 at the time, struggled offensively. Quarterback Tyler Buchner threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown by Gilmore. The Irish’s offense was unable to capitalize on several opportunities, leading to their first 0–2 start since 2011.
This victory was a monumental achievement for Marshall. The Thundering Herd’s win over a top-10 team was only the second in the program’s history, highlighting the significance of the upset. The win also marked the first time a Sun Belt Conference team played at Notre Dame Stadium, showcasing the growing competitiveness of the conference.
Following the game, Marshall’s head coach Charles Huff emphasized the importance of focusing on the next game rather than dwelling on the upset. Despite the historic win, Huff maintained a forward-looking approach, aiming to keep the team grounded and focused on their upcoming opponents.
For Notre Dame, the loss was a significant setback. Head coach Marcus Freeman faced criticism for the team’s performance, becoming the first Notre Dame coach to lose his first three games. The defeat highlighted areas of concern, including offensive inefficiencies and defensive lapses, prompting the coaching staff to reevaluate strategies moving forward.
Marshall’s victory over Notre Dame was a landmark moment in college football, underscoring the unpredictability of the sport and the potential for upsets. The Thundering Herd’s performance demonstrated resilience and determination, while Notre Dame’s loss served as a reminder of the challenges inherent in maintaining a high level of performance. This game remains a testament to the competitive nature of college football and the capacity for underdog teams to achieve remarkable victories.
