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Notre Dame may start freshman safety Joey O'Brien against Purdue

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 6:46 PM

Last updated Sep 21, 2026

Notre Dame may start freshman safety Joey O'Brien against Purdue

Summary

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman indicated that freshman safety Joey O'Brien could start against Purdue due to injuries in the secondary. Senior safety Luke Talich is questionable after sustaining a left wrist or hand injury during a recent game, while third-year safety Brauntae Johnson is sidelined with a foot injury and is expected to be out for multiple weeks. Freeman expects to have clearer information about Talich’s status following MRI results. O'Brien, who has played 46 snaps this season, is gaining confidence as he takes on a larger role in the defense as injuries mount.

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Status Watch

•Marcus Freeman confirms Talich's MRI results pending for injury update.
•Brauntae Johnson out for multiple weeks with a foot injury.
•Joey O'Brien has played 46 snaps this season and is expected to play more.
•Freeman expresses confidence in O'Brien's abilities and preparation.

Latest Updates

6:46 PMYahoo Sports — Notre Dame football could look to young safety Joey O'Brien vs. Purdue

What they're saying

"
Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman said Luke Talich’s status would become more clear once the results of his MRI come back later Monday Sept. 21.
— Yahoo Sports

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