SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Just a couple of weeks ago, Notre Dame’s defense was at what coach Marcus Freeman called “a low point.”

The Irish, who had one of the best defenses in college football last year, had given up 68 points in losses to Miami and Texas A&M, then still looked troubled in a 56-30 victory over Purdue.

On Saturday, the Irish appeared to have their defensive mojo back as they topped 2024 CFP qualifier Boise State 28-7 in the Broncos’ first trip to Notre Dame Stadium. They held Boise State to 315 yards after the Broncos entered the game averaging 520. And they also came away with four interceptions.

“They’ve stayed committed, stayed together,” Freeman said. “They worked tirelessly to come up with a better output. And I’m so proud of them.”

The win gave the Irish a good start to

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