Notre Dame has its starting quarterback. While Brian Kelly did note that Ian Book could play, the Irish’ head coach said that Brandon Wimbush will start against Michigan in Week 1.
Brian Kelly asked if Brandon Wimbush is still the guy or if Ian Book has closed the gap. Said game plan set to Wimbush’s strengths and “we’ll play them both if we need to.” Wimbush will start.
— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) August 23, 2018
Wimbush was the primary quarterback for the Fighting Irish as a junior in 2017. Playing in all but one game, he completed 49.5 percent of his passes for 1,870 yards with 16 touchdowns and six interceptions. Wimbush also made a big impact with his legs, rushing for 803 yards with 14 scores.
Book, meanwhile, saw significant playing time as a sophomore, getting into 10 games. In those 10 games, he completed 61.3 percent of his passes for 456 yards with four touchdowns and four interceptions, adding 207 yards on the ground.
Certainly, when Notre Dame finds itself in a passing situation, Book is the better option. But if the Fighting Irish can stay out of those situations, Wimbush’s ability with his arms and legs make him quite dangerous for opponents.