MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – In a pulsating season opener on Sunday night at Hard Rock Stadium, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes secured a dramatic 27-24 victory over the No. 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, snapping an eight-game losing streak against top-10 opponents. The victory came courtesy of a clutch 47-yard field goal by Miami kicker Carter Davis with just 1:04 remaining in the game.
Miami’s quarterback Carson Beck, making his debut for the Hurricanes, delivered a solid performance by throwing for 205 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing poise under pressure. Wide receiver Malachi Toney was a key target, hauling in six receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown, while CJ Daniels electrified the crowd with a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch in the fourth quarter.
The contest unfolded as a back-and-forth battle marked by resilience from both sides. Miami’s Marty Brown contributed a vital touchdown run, and Rueben Bain’s interception on a deflected pass added a defensive spark that was crucial in the closing moments. The Hurricanes outgained Notre Dame 324 yards to 314, underscoring the tightly contested nature of the game.
Notre Dame’s first-time starting quarterback CJ Carr finished with 221 passing yards, two touchdown passes, one interception, and also rushed for a touchdown. Carr led the Irish on a late-game drive that tied the game at 24 with 3:21 left, but Miami’s defense held firm in the final minute to preserve the win. Wide receivers Micah Gilbert and Jordan Faison supplied key scoring plays for Notre Dame.
The game’s early phase was marked by miscues exacerbated by rainy conditions that persisted from pregame through the first half. Notably, Notre Dame’s senior wideout Malachi Fields suffered a critical fumble after a catch, allowing Miami to seize favorable field position. Miami, however, also narrowly missed scoring opportunities, including a failed field goal attempt due to a bobbled snap earlier in the game.
Miami head coach Mario Cristobal reflected on the significance of the win: “It’s just an unbelievable night for so many people that poured so much into this.” For the Hurricanes, this triumph represents a promising start in their quest to reestablish dominance among college football’s elite.
Statistically, Miami quarterback Carson Beck connected on 20 out of 31 passes, while Notre Dame’s CJ Carr completed 19 of 30 attempts. Both teams displayed balanced offensive attacks, combining effective passing games with impactful rushing plays.
The victory marks Miami’s return to form against highly ranked competition, having last defeated a top-10 team nearly eight years ago—coincidentally against the same opponent, Notre Dame. The Hurricanes’ defense recorded three sacks, an interception, and a fumble recovery, all pivotal in holding the Fighting Irish at bay in the closing minutes.
This thrilling opener sets an exciting tone for both programs as they look ahead to the remainder of the 2025 college football season.