In a decisive clash in Week 9 of the 2026 season, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish topped the Oxford Ole Miss with a final score of 27-13. The win not only improves Notre Dame's standing but also solidifies their playoff aspirations as the season heads into its final stretch. Leading the charge for Notre Dame was quarterback Jalen Hurts, who threw for 259 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to connect with his receivers under pressure. Saquon Barkley was a standout target, racking up 122 receiving yards and proving to be a vital asset in the passing game. Meanwhile, Cam Skattebo kept Oxford in the mix with a strong 90 rushing yards, but it was not enough to secure the victory. Defensively, Notre Dame's Jihaad Campbell made a significant impact, snagging an interception that shifted the momentum in favor of the Fighting Irish. Although Brian Burns of the Oxford Ole Miss dominated the defensive stats with 4 tackles and 2.5 sacks, it was Notre Dame's ability to capitalize on critical turnovers that proved to be the game's turning point. As the Irish tightened their grip on the game, their defense stepped up, allowing them to hold off any late-game charges from Oxford.