Notre Dame QB Tyler Buchner in transfer portal, reportedly looking at Cal, Alabama, Auburn, Stanford
Does Cal have a shot at one of the top quarterback portal prospects of the 2024 cycle?
UPDATE: Buchner has transferred to Alabama.
Cal offensive coordinator Jake Spavital made it clear near the end of spring practice that finding a quarterback in the portal would be a priority for the Bears.
One high-profile option might have opened up for Cal.
(Photo via Tyler Buchner socials)
2022 Notre Dame opening day starting quarterback Tyler Buchner is looking for a new home, entering the transfer portal after a tough spring in South Bend. Buchner had some nice performances his junior year, including in the Taxslayer Bowl against South Carolina, but injuries cut short his season (he did not play in the Cal loss). He struggled with interceptions but does have a lot of talent and would be a clear additive to any quarterback battle.
The rumored candidates for Buchner’s next home are interesting, as discussed by Ricky Green of the Alabama Football Network:
According to a source that is very close to the Tyler Buchner situation, Tyler will visit two other schools besides Alabama and Auburn. Looks like Stanford and Cal are also in the mix.
Let’s take a look at the four rumored schools:
Alabama Crimson Tide: This seems like the obvious target. Alabama’s new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees was Buchner’s OC last season in Notre Dame, so the coaching fit is all right there. Neither Jalen Milroe nor Ty Simpson separated themselves enough in spring ball to win the job outright, but are both pretty talented and will be stiff competition for Buchner to beat out.
Auburn Tigers: Cal’s future opponent this fall is another serious contender. Auburn has four quarterbacks on roster in T.J. Finley, Robby Ashford, Holden Geriner and Hank Brown, but Hugh Freeze has expressed an interest in going portal shopping. Both Auburn and Alabama are expected to get visits.
Cal and Stanford: These schools seem like a bit of surprise, but they follow a similar theme—major programs with serious gaps in their quarterback room who need immediate help. Buchner hails from La Jolla, California, so it could provide some appeal to go back to the West Coast too.
One additional appeal for Buchner to consider Cal—his sister, Brooke, is on Cal’s beach volleyball team.
Cal fans, thoughts on Buchner as a QB fit?
This would be a great pick up. With Spav and our new offense and competition from two other QB's with very limited or no game experience, he would have a great chance to move into the starting role; better than at Bama and I would think Auburn. Not sure about Stanfurd, other than they are in rebuild with a new coach and his sister goes to CAL. I say he comes to the Bears!
Bama