SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- After weeks of inconsistency, Notre Dame’s defense finally looked locked in during Saturday’s 28–7 win over Boise State — marking the Irish’s third straight victory and their most complete defensive performance of the season.

Under new defensive coordinator Chris Ash, the unit showed major growth, holding the Broncos to just 4.4 yards per play — the fewest allowed all year. The defense also forced multiple three-and-outs, limited explosive plays, and kept Boise State out of rhythm from start to finish.

It was a sharp turnaround for a group that struggled early in the season. Players like safety Tae Johnson and cornerback Leonard Moore helped set the tone, while Notre Dame’s front seven consistently applied pressure, cleaning up tackling and communication issues that plagued them in previous games.

Now, with momentum building and the Irish climbing to No. 16 in the AP Poll, the focus turns to sustaining that defensive edge heading into this weekend’s home matchup against NC State.