Alabama makes quarterback switch, puts Tyler Buchner in game

News broke of Alabama starting Jalen Milroe over 24 hours before the season opener against Middle Tennessee State. Nick Saban was always going to play more than one quarterback, though. Two, possibly three, others are expected to get a chance on Saturday night.

First up is Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner. He replaced Milroe — who impressed with multiple touchdowns — in the second half, getting his opportunity to shine with the Alabama offense. After joining the program ahead of fall camp, Buchner has impressed enough to potentially move ahead of Ty Simpson.

Buchner has a ton of experience with offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, potentially playing into his success during practice. There is a new system to be learned with Saban not switching things up just because Rees has come to Tuscaloosa.

Even so, Buchner won Notre Dame‘s quarterback competition last season, showing Rees has some kind of confidence in him. Injuries meant Buchner did not play too much in South Bend during the 2022 season but the bowl game against South Carolina was a potential bright spot.

Alabama decided to add Buchner to the roster following spring practice. Buchner was likely going to lose the Notre Dame competition, with the job going to Sam Hartman. The opportunity arose to move into the SEC program and Buchner made a decision quickly.

Saban has reiterated multiple times despite Milroe getting the start, the quarterback competition is not over. Buchner will be evaluated on his performance, just as Milroe and potentially Simpson will be. Going out against Middle Tennessee State, even if the game is likely decided, is important.

Jalen Milore impresses in second-ever Alabama start

Prior to Saturday night, Milroe had just one college start to his name. He was called upon when Bryce Young went down with his shoulder injury during the 2022 season. Alabama barely held onto a win against Texas A&M, possibly earning the respect of the locker room then.

Milroe likely now has a second win under his belt, with Alabama rolling in the second half against Middle Tennessee State. The performance was a great one, putting numbers up through the air and with his legs, scoring five total touchdowns.

Before Saban makes any declarations about who the long-term starting quarterback will be, he will likely want to watch the film from Saturday’s game. Most of the notes from Milroe’s end are likely going to be positive ones.