Boubacar Traore Leads Notre Dame Defensive Revival

Notre Dame senior defensive lineman Boubacar Traore is making an impact during the 2026 season after recovering from a previous ACL injury, helping the Irish defense with tackles and sacks through five games, according to ndsmcobserver.com.

Traore has played all four college seasons at Notre Dame. The defensive lineman appeared in five games as a freshman, recorded his first sack and forced fumble against USC on Oct. 14, and later missed the remainder of his sophomore season after tearing his left ACL against Louisville.

According to ndsmcobserver.com, Traore started 11 games as a junior and finished with career highs of 6.5 sacks, one forced fumble, 10 tackles for loss and 37 total tackles. This season, he has posted 13 solo tackles, two assisted tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks through five games.

Traore said his approach centers on controlling his own preparation rather than focusing on opponents.

"Don’t focus on what he’s doing. Have him focus on what I’m doing, put the pressure on him," said Boubacar Traore, Notre Dame defensive lineman.

Traore most recently recorded a season-high six tackles against North Carolina and also collected a sack against Michigan State on Sept. 19, according to ndsmcobserver.com. He said practice and preparation help him handle game situations.

"Every practice, it’s like a game rep," said Boubacar Traore, Notre Dame defensive lineman.

"As long as I’m trying to treat every rep like a game rep, whenever the game comes, it kind of just comes naturally," said Boubacar Traore, Notre Dame defensive lineman.

Traore also emphasized the importance of studying opponents outside of practice to improve his adjustments during games.

"I watch a lot of film on my opponent, so whatever adjustment he makes, it’s not like seeing it for the first time," said Boubacar Traore, Notre Dame defensive lineman.

Senior defensive lineman Armel Mukam highlighted Traore’s contribution to the unit and said his performance supports the rest of Notre Dame’s defensive line.

"Makes our jobs easier," said Armel Mukam, Notre Dame senior defensive lineman.

Notre Dame entered the season with the goal of reaching the national championship game. The Irish reached that stage in January 2025 but lost to the Buckeyes, then finished the following season 10-2 and missed the College Football Playoff, according to ndsmcobserver.com.