Northern Illinois kicker Kanon Woodill's 35-yard field goal with less than a minute remaining proved to be the deciding factor as the Huskies pulled off a remarkable 16-14 victory over fifth-ranked Notre Dame on Saturday. This historic win marks Northern Illinois' first non-conference triumph against a ranked opponent since 2003 and their first-ever win against a top-10 ranked team.
Northern Illinois kicker Kanon Woodill's 35-yard field goal with just under a minute remaining proved to be the difference-maker in the Huskies' stunning 16-14 victory over the fifth-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Saturday. The dramatic win marked Northern Illinois' first non-conference victory against a ranked opponent since 2003 and their first-ever win against a team ranked in the top 10 of the AP Top 25.
The upset victory was the culmination of a gritty performance by the Huskies, who trailed 14-13 late in the fourth quarter. With 7:49 remaining, Notre Dame took possession of the ball with a chance to extend their lead. However, Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard's deep pass intended for Kris Mitchell was intercepted by Amariyun Knighten, who returned it 33 yards to the 50-yard line.
Northern Illinois Stuns Notre Dame with Dramatic Upset Victory
The interception gave Northern Illinois a chance to take the lead, and Woodill delivered with his third field goal of the day. Notre Dame attempted to respond with a last-second comeback, but a 62-yard field goal attempt fell short.
Northern Illinois' victory was a remarkable achievement for a program that has struggled in recent years. The Huskies had not won a game against a Power Five opponent since 2013, and their last victory over a ranked team came in 2003 against Alabama.
Northern Illinois Stuns Notre Dame with Dramatic Upset Victory
The win was also a significant accomplishment for first-year Northern Illinois coach Thomas Hammock, who was emotional after the game. "I'm so proud of our kids, the coaches, everybody," Hammock said. "They believed. They believed, and we came in and got it done."
Notre Dame, on the other hand, will likely plunge in next week's rankings after their disappointing loss. The Fighting Irish will travel to West Lafayette for a game against Purdue on Sept. 14. Meanwhile, Northern Illinois enjoys a bye week before hosting Buffalo on Sept. 21.
Northern Illinois Stuns Notre Dame with Dramatic Upset Victory
