Season Opening Wins
Notre Dame’s next two opponents open the new season with impressive victories
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Two of Notre Dame's next opponents opened the 2026 season with convincing victories. Rice dominated Houston Christian 31-3 in week 1, while Michigan State held off a late Toledo comeback to win 30-20. Both teams will face the Irish in September as part of Notre Dame's early-season schedule.
Rice Rushes Past Houston Christian in Dominant Week 1
Rice's offense put on a rushing clinic against Houston Christian. The Owls ran for 465 yards on 70 attempts, a record-breaking performance that overwhelmed their opponent. Houston Christian managed just a single field goal in the lopsided 31-3 defeat. Rice will bring this offensive momentum into their September 12 matchup with Notre Dame.
The Owls' ground game showed they can control games with physical, punishing football. Running back production of that level suggests Rice enters the Notre Dame game with confidence. The team demonstrated offensive balance and execution that will test the Irish defense early in the season.
Michigan State Survives Toledo Scare in Week 1
Michigan State's win over Toledo was less dominant but more dramatic. The Spartans led for most of the game but nearly blew it when Toledo tied the score late in the fourth quarter. Michigan State pulled away to win 30-20, surviving a tense finish. The team faces Notre Dame in week 3, September 19, in a renewal of their Megaphone Trophy rivalry.
Toledo's fourth-quarter surge showed Michigan State's defense isn't airtight. The Spartans gave up enough yards and points to make the game competitive when it shouldn't have been. How Michigan State responds to close calls will matter when they visit Notre Dame next month.
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