Crystal Pouncey
Sep 16, 2023 - 07:15

Alabama Switching to Tyler Buchner at QB After Disastrous Loss to Texas

Nick Saban is reportedly making a quarterback switch for Alabama's upcoming game against South Florida after their loss to Texas.

Alabama head coach Nick Saban has made the decision to switch quarterbacks early in the season following the team's upset loss to Texas last Saturday. According to a report from 247Sports, Tyler Buchner is expected to start in place of Jalen Milroe when the Crimson Tide face off against South Florida in Week 3.

Milroe had started Alabama's first two games of the season, but his performance against the Longhorns, which included two interceptions and a low completion rate, led to Buchner getting the majority of the first-string snaps this week.

Saban emphasized that every position is evaluated on a weekly basis and that players need to perform well to secure their positions. The team has responded positively to the challenge of improving and getting better.

Buchner transferred to Alabama in April after spending two seasons at Notre Dame. He began the 2022 season as Notre Dame's starting quarterback but suffered a shoulder injury in the second game. He returned for the Gator Bowl and led the Fighting Irish to victory with an impressive performance.

In Alabama's season opener against Middle Tennessee, Buchner had a limited role in garbage time, completing 3 of 5 pass attempts for 27 yards and rushing for a touchdown. However, Saban has expressed confidence in Buchner's development and improvement, noting his strong performance in the last scrimmage and in practice.

The decision to switch quarterbacks comes after Alabama's loss to Texas, where they were favored to win by seven points. Now, as the 10th ranked team, they will face South Florida as 33-point favorites in Tampa.

Overall, Saban's decision to start Buchner reflects the team's commitment to evaluating and making changes to improve performance. The switch at quarterback aims to provide a spark and boost the team's chances of success moving forward.