Notre Dame defeated Miami 31–24 on November 7, 2026, handing the previously unbeaten Hurricanes their first loss. Both teams finished the game at 8–1, according to Notre Dame and NCAA game coverage. NCAA recap ↗
Final score and key numbers
Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr completed 29 of 40 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns. Receiver Micah Gilbert caught nine passes for 98 yards and two scores, according to the university’s game summary. Official Notre Dame recap ↗
How Notre Dame won
The Irish built a 24–3 lead during the third quarter before Miami responded. Notre Dame’s defense held on in the fourth quarter, including an interception by safety Luke Talich. The result came in South Bend and avenged Miami’s victory in the prior season.
Does the result guarantee a playoff spot?
No. One high-profile victory can affect the conversation around rankings, strength of schedule, and head-to-head comparisons, but postseason selection depends on the full season and the selection committee’s later decisions. It would be premature to call either team eliminated or guaranteed a place based solely on this game.
Why do some stories use different Notre Dame rankings?
Stories may cite different polls or the College Football Playoff ranking, which do not always use the same order. Identify the ranking system whenever quoting a team number. The score and game outcome are not affected by that distinction.
Questions readers are asking
Who won Notre Dame vs. Miami in 2026?
Notre Dame won 31–24 on November 7, 2026.
Was Miami undefeated before the game?
Yes. The Hurricanes entered the matchup undefeated and suffered their first loss.
Did Notre Dame clinch a CFP spot?
The win supports its case, but did not by itself establish a guaranteed playoff selection.
Sources and original reporting
- Notre Dame Athletics — Irish defeat Miami 31–24November 7, 2026
- NCAA — No. 1 Miami loses to Notre DameNovember 7, 2026
- Associated Press via CBS Sports — Notre Dame vs. Miami recapNovember 7, 2026