League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Raghib Ismail returns two kickoffs for touchdowns against Rice in 1988

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 11:00 AM

Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Raghib Ismail returns two kickoffs for touchdowns against Rice in 1988

Summary

On November 5, 1988, top-ranked Notre Dame faced Rice at Notre Dame Stadium. The winless Owls took an early 3-0 lead following a 70-yard opening drive that ended in a 23-yard field goal by Clint Parsons. Freshman Raghib Ismail responded immediately for the Fighting Irish by returning the ensuing kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown. Ismail, known for his speed, recorded multiple kickoff returns for scores during the contest with assistance from blockers including Steve Belles. The game served as a bounce-back effort for Lou Holtz’s team following a narrow win against Navy the previous week. Notre Dame entered the matchup undefeated, maintaining the top spot in the polls after a victory over Miami earlier that season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Rice opened the scoring with a 23-yard field goal from Clint Parsons.
•Raghib Ismail answered the early deficit with an 87-yard kickoff return touchdown.
•Reserve quarterback Steve Belles provided key blocks on the kickoff returns.
•Notre Dame entered the game with an 8-0 record and a No. 1 ranking.

Latest Updates