Buchner Leaving Bama

Per Tide Illustrated, Alabama backup quarterback Tyler Buchner is entering the NCAA transfer portal, which is no surprise to anyone who follows the Tide program. But there's a big caveat: it's not to play football at a third NCAA school. The redshirt sophomore will now pursue a lacrosse career at the new school of his choosing.

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That's not a typo. Buchner plans to play collegiate lacrosse at his next school.

He transferred to Alabama from Notre Dame back in May.

Here's part of the lacrosse theory: Buchner would have to sit out another year to play football at his next school, but he will be eligible to play lacrosse immediately.

Buchner started behind center for Alabama's week 3 win at South Florida, but did not finish the game after he hit on 5 of 14 passes for 34 yards and ran the ball twice for 11 yards before being replaced by Ty Simpson. Eventual starter Jalen Milroe sat out that contest.

Crimson Tide Photos / UA Athletics

Overall, Buchner only made two appearances at Alabama. He was successful on completed 8 of 19 passes for 61 yards. He also had three carries for 20 yards and a touchdown. That's 81 yards of total offense in less than three full quarters.

Buchner had spent the past two seasons being coached by first-year Alabama offensive coordinator Tommy Rees In South Bend, IN. He began last season as the Irish’s starting quarterback before a shoulder injury then kept him out 10 games. He returned in time to lead Notre Dame to a 45-38 victory over South Carolina in the Gator Bowl, when he hit on 18 of 33 passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns with three interceptions [two of which were pick sixes]. He rushed for 61 yards and two more scores in the win.