South Carolina vs. Notre Dame: 5 things to know about Gamecocks’ Gator Bowl opponent

South Carolina vs. Notre Dame: 5 things to know about Gamecocks’ Gator Bowl opponent

South Carolina (8-4, 4-4 SEC) will face Notre Dame in Jacksonville on Dec. 30.

www.saturdaydownsouth.com

 

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Sophomore quarterback Drew Pyne revived the Notre Dame offense after starter Tyler Buchner went down early in the season with an injury. When it appeared Notre Dame’s season was in the dumpster, Pyne led the Irish to an 8-2 mark in the next 10 games. However, this will be Pyne’s last game with the school; he announced that he will enter the transfer portal.

It appears the article is incorrect about this being QB Drew Pyne's last game, as he hit the portal on 12-2, opting out of ND's bowl game, which was unknown at that time.

Notre Dame quarterback Drew Pyne enters transfer portal

Notre Dame also is expected to be without a pair of projected NFL draft picks, tight end Michael Mayer and defensive end Isaiah Foskey, for the bowl.

www.usatoday.com

The QB Pyne replaced, Tyler Buchner, may get the start. The Irish started off 0-2 with Buchner under center.

Though lacking in size and arm strength, Pyne showed advanced leadership and decision-making qualities in passing for more than 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns. He was intercepted six times and his 8.0 yards per attempt tied him for 38th.

Buchner, who also has three seasons of future eligibility after being sidelined in Week 2, had accelerated his rehab process after September surgery on his left (non-throwing) shoulder. Originally projected to be out until mid-January, Buchner now figures to see meaningful action in whatever bowl lands Notre Dame (8-4) this Sunday.

Freshman Steve Angeli, who has taken just seven snaps all season, also moves up the depth chart as Notre Dame shops the crowded transfer portal for proven quarterback help.