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Freshman safety Joey O’Brien to start for Notre Dame against Purdue

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 4:53 PM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Freshman safety Joey O’Brien to start for Notre Dame against Purdue

Summary

Freshman Joey O’Brien has been named the starting safety for Notre Dame as they prepare to face Purdue this weekend. O’Brien is stepping in for senior Luke Talich, who is out due to a left wrist injury sustained last week. Coach Marcus Freeman expressed confidence in O’Brien, noting his performance in practice. O’Brien, a five-star recruit, has participated in 46 plays through the first three games. Ethan Long will serve as the primary backup. Talich is expected to return by October 3 against North Carolina, while third-year safety Brauntae Johnson is also sidelined with an injury.

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By the Numbers

•Joey O’Brien takes first-team safety role for Notre Dame.
•Luke Talich ruled out with a left wrist injury.
•Coach Freeman confident in O’Brien's abilities.
•Ethan Long to step in as backup safety.
•Talich expected to return for October 3 game.

Latest Updates

4:53 PMYahoo Sports — Freshman safety set to start vs. Purdue for Notre Dame football

What they're saying

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Freshman Joey O’Brien has taken Notre Dame's first-team safety repetitions in practice this week with second-year man Ethan Long the primary backup.
— Yahoo Sports

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