Marcus Freeman evaluates Tyler Buchner's performance vs. Ohio State

Notre Dame quarterback Tyler Buchner made his first career start on Saturday night in Columbus.

Coach Marcus Freeman told reporters on Monday he was happy with Buchner’s performance overall. He cited Buchner’s toughness as a passer and a runner as well as his presence on the sideline.

“We got ourselves a quarterback,” Freeman said. “There is a strong belief of what he can do for this football program.”

Freeman on Buchner: I was really pleased. I don't know much about QB ratings, so I told him I can't use that. He got beat up. He got hit. On the sideline he was getting guys going. He was positive. We got ourselves a quarterback.

— Mike BerardinoNDI (@MikeBerardino) September 5, 2022

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman on Tyler Buchner:

"We got ourselves a quarterback. There is a strong belief of what he can do for this football program." pic.twitter.com/qFrSclVywc

— Tyler Horka (@tbhorka) September 5, 2022

Buchner completed his first 8 passes of the game vs. Ohio State’s vaunted defense, but struggled at times in the second half. He finished 10-of-18 for 177 yards through the air. He also ran the ball 11 times for 18 yards.

Notre Dame’s offense as a whole faltered after halftime, failing to score against Jim Knowles’ Ohio State defense. Chris Tyree led Notre Dame with 6 carries for 28 yards.

Buchner and Notre Dame’s offense should have an easier time moving the ball in Week 2. Next weekend, Notre Dame hosts Marshall in its home-opener.