TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) – Taylor Kelly threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Demario Richard in the fourth quarter and Lloyd Carrington followed with a 58-yard interception return for another score, helping No. 11 Arizona State withstand a furious second-half rally to beat No. 8 Notre Dame 55-31 on Saturday.
The Sun Devils (8-1, No. 9 CFB) overwhelmed Notre Dame early with a string of turnovers and big plays, racing to a 24-3 lead by the opening minute of the second quarter.
The Irish (7-2, No. 10 CFB) charged back with 21 straight points, pulling to 34-31 when Everett Golson hit Amir Carlisle with a 25-yard touchdown pass.
But the Sun Devils had a rally of their own, scoring three touchdowns in the final 4:39 to remain firmly in the playoff mix.
Notre Dame is all but out of the playoff hunt after Golson threw four interceptions and lost a fumble.