In a decisive Week 1 matchup of the 2026 season, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish topped Seattle Washington with a final score of 35-17. This victory sets a strong tone for Notre Dame's campaign as they look to build momentum early in the season. Jalen Hurts was the standout performer for the Fighting Irish, throwing for 327 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the field. He connected frequently with DeVonta Smith, who had a remarkable game with 145 receiving yards, while Saquon Barkley added a solid ground game with 100 rushing yards. Together, they formed a formidable offensive unit that kept the Seattle defense on its heels. Defensively, Notre Dame made significant contributions to their win, particularly with Jonathan Greenard's impactful sack and Kenny Moore II's interception, which shifted momentum in their favor. The turning point came late in the second quarter, when Moore's interception thwarted a Seattle scoring opportunity and allowed Notre Dame to extend their lead just before halftime. With 14 tackles, Rasul Douglas of Seattle was busy, but it wasn't enough to counter the relentless offensive attack from the Irish.