Notre Dame has named sophomore Tyler Buchner its starting quarterback for this upcoming season.

Here’s the announcement:

Buchner beat out Drew Pyne for the starting job. This was the expected result, as Buchner looked good in short spurts of playing time last season.

Freeman told reporters on Saturday morning that “it was time” to make the decision and give the offense clarity on who the starting QB is going to be.

According to coach Marcus Freeman, Pyne has handled the news positively:

Buchner is a sophomore from San Diego, California. He was a 4-star prospect in the class of 2021, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. He was the No. 11 quarterback in the country for that class.

In 2021, Buchner completed 21 of 35 passes (60%) for 298 yards, 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. He was also a threat on the ground, rushing for 336 yards and 3 scores on 46 carries.

Buchner has taken on a larger leadership role this offseason — something he says he’s embraced in his second fall camp with the Fighting Irish.

The announcement comes on the same day that Notre Dame confirmed receiver Avery Davis will miss the 2022 season due to a torn ACL. The Irish are now down to 5 healthy wide receivers on scholarship.

Notre Dame opens the 2022 season with Ohio State on Sept. 3.