Marcus Freeman remains confident in quarterback Drew Pyne’s ability to throw the ball down the field.

Pyne was thrusted into a position to lead the offense when Tyler Buchner was ruled out for the rest of the season with an injury after the Marshall loss. Pyne made his first start of the season against California on Saturday. Notre Dame held on for a 24-17 win.

In the win, Pyne passed for 150 yards and 2 touchdowns. He completed 17 of 23 passes, but struggled to push the ball down the field. His longest pass of the game was for 36 yards to Audric Estime in the 4th quarter. The lack of a deep threat was noticeable.

Pyne is averaging just 5.9 yards per attempt so far this season. However, Freeman said he is not concerned with what he saw from Pyne.

“I have a lot of confidence in Drew running this offense and throwing the ball down the field if we need to,” Freeman said.

 

Ultimately, Notre Dame held on for Freeman’s first win as a head coach. Pyne will be an important part of Notre Dame’s season.

Notre Dame will be on the road in Week 4 against North Carolina.