Notre Dame won its first game of the season on Saturday afternoon vs. Marshall.

It was also the first victory of the Marcus Freeman era. After the game, Freeman spoke to the team.

“I’m so proud of you all. You all deserve this. Your hard work, your practice habits, sacrifice you put in. You all deserve this,” Freeman said. “You deserve this feeling. And this is why we put the work in practice. It’s the greatest feeling in the world.

“This right here, what you’re feeling right now, it’s the greatest feeling in the world. That’s why we have to prepare the right way.”

Notre Dame’s offense struggled in the first half but rallied for 17 points after the break. Quarterback Drew Pyne, making his first career start, threw for 150 yards, 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions in the win.

Running back Audric Estime was solid as well, rushing for 76 yards and 1 touchdown on 18 carries.

Defensively, Notre Dame was dominant. The Irish recorded 6 sacks, 8 tackles for loss and 3 pass breakups. Isaiah Foskey and Justin Ademilola were each credited with 1.5 sacks.

Notre Dame faces North Carolina on the road next week.