A powerful finish to the initial half and a superb beginning to the second half propelled No. 9 Oklahoma State to overcome an early shortfall in the Fiesta Bowl. They enter the final quarter ahead 31-28 against No. 5 Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish, participating in their inaugural contest under their new head coach, Marcus Freeman, held a commanding 28-7 advantage with 1:16 remaining in the second period. However, this lead evaporated swiftly as Spencer Sanders guided the Cowboys on a scoring drive just before the halftime break.
Securing possession to start the second half, Oklahoma State executed a masterful 12-play, 87-yard touchdown drive, consuming four minutes of game time. Upon returning to the field, Notre Dame’s offense appeared significantly less effective against the Cowboys’ defense. Jack Coan, who amassed 342 yards and four touchdowns in the first half—already a top quarterback performance against Oklahoma State this year—managed only 40 yards in a scoreless third quarter for the Fighting Irish.
Another extensive touchdown drive late in the third quarter resulted in a tie score. Oklahoma State then advanced into scoring territory again before settling for a field goal as the third quarter concluded. This remarkable 24-0 surge completely reversed the game’s momentum, transforming a potential landslide victory into a thrilling Fiesta Bowl showdown poised for a spectacular conclusion.
CBS Sports will provide continuous updates, including analysis and key moments, throughout the remainder of the game in the live blog below.
