Notre Dame football: Can Tyler Buchner match Ian Book’s 2018 season?

5 of 5

Oct 9, 2021; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Tyler Buchner (12) throws a pass during the second quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Notre Dame football: Can Tyler Buchner match Ian Book’s 2018 season?

CFP and establishing themselves as long-term QB

The most impressive thing about the 2018 season was the fact that the Irish went into the year ranked No. 12 overall, but were able to run the table, and earn a spot in the College Football Playoff. It also started a run for Book where the Irish were nearly unbeatable during the regular season, making them legitimate playoff contenders every year.

For Buchner, he has a golden opportunity to get the Irish back into the CFP mix in his first season as the starter, as well as establish himself as the long-term solution at the quarterback spot. He will have to beat out Drew Pyne and Steve Angeli this offseason to win the job, but once he does, he needs to put his stamp on the team much as Book did in 2018.

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 09: A Notre Dame Fighting Irish helmet against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the game on November 9, 2013 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Notre Dame football: 3 defensive players who need to be great in 2022

The Notre Dame football team will once again be one of the best in the country in 2022, and these defensive players must be great.

The truth is, Buchner is going to be the No. 1 player on everybody’s radar heading into next season, as he could end up being the future of the program at the most important position in sports. Notre Dame football has a real chance to take a big step forward in 2022, and if Buchner can play consistent football, leaning on his defense, they should be one of the final teams standing.

Home/Notre Dame Football