A Second-Half Surge
After a 281‑day absence from the field, the Irish entered a high‑stakes showdown with the No.5 Wisconsin Badgers at Lambeau Field, only to find themselves trailing 13‑10 at halftime as ball handling faltered, offensive rhythm stalled, defensive gaps opened and special teams misfired.
Coach Marcus Freeman gathered the squad at the break and urged them to abandon external expectations and instead play ‘Notre Dame football’ — a brand of play defined by physicality, smart decision‑making and patient execution.
The second half unfolded as a different game entirely; the Irish surged ahead, outscoring Wisconsin 28‑3 to erase the deficit, a momentum shift highlighted by a pivotal interception from DJ McKinney that halted a Badgers drive and sparked a cascade of points.
Adding to the narrative, sophomore tight end James Flanigan broke through for his first career touchdown, catching his inaugural pass in his hometown and capping the comeback with a moment that underscored the team’s renewed belief.
Quarterback CJ Carr later reflected on the early struggles, acknowledging the team’s initial shortcomings while celebrating the fight they displayed, a sentiment that resonated throughout the locker room.
The climax arrived when captains Drayk Bowen and Adon Shuler led a spirited Leap at the game’s conclusion, a symbolic gesture that marked their return to form and reinforced the tradition of leadership that defines the program.
With confidence restored and a clear identity reclaimed, the Irish enter the remainder of the season poised to build on this momentum.