Greg McElroy, a former college football quarterback and current commentator, recently made waves in the football world with a bold prediction about the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football program. According to McElroy, Notre Dame could experience a “Joe Burrow-type leap” at quarterback, similar to the stunning transformation seen in LSU’s offense during their historic 2019 season. This comparison has intrigued both Notre Dame fans and college football observers alike, as McElroy’s analysis points to a potential breakthrough moment for the Irish under the leadership of their current quarterback.

For those unfamiliar with the term, a “Joe Burrow-type leap” refers to the meteoric rise of LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, who, in just one season, transformed from a solid but unremarkable quarterback to one of the most electrifying and successful players in college football history. In the 2019 season, Burrow led LSU to a national championship, threw for over 5,600 yards, and set multiple records on his way to winning the prestigious Heisman Trophy. The leap from a player with good potential to a transcendent talent was nothing short of remarkable, and it forever changed the trajectory of LSU’s program.

McElroy’s comments have sparked considerable interest because they suggest that Notre Dame, a historically strong football program that has often been on the cusp of championship contention, could see similar success at the quarterback position. The key to McElroy’s prediction is the quarterback currently leading the Fighting Irish: Tyler Buchner. A dual-threat quarterback with significant potential, Buchner has been the subject of high expectations since arriving at Notre Dame. Now, McElroy believes that, with the right development and a bit of good fortune, Buchner could make a significant leap, similar to Burrow’s ascension at LSU.

The foundation for McElroy’s comparison to Burrow lies in the situation surrounding both quarterbacks. When Burrow arrived at LSU, he was a transfer from Ohio State, where he had been a backup quarterback. Similarly, Buchner came to Notre Dame with a lot of hype and expectations as a highly ranked recruit but has yet to truly break out as the team’s starter. Burrow’s transition from solid to exceptional was largely the result of LSU head coach Ed Orgeron and offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s ability to install an innovative offensive system that suited Burrow’s strengths. This system allowed Burrow to showcase his full range of skills, particularly his ability to make quick decisions, throw accurately downfield, and read defenses.

McElroy sees similarities in the way that Buchner has been set up to succeed at Notre Dame. Under head coach Marcus Freeman and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, the Fighting Irish are poised to become more dynamic on offense. Freeman’s leadership brings a fresh and energetic approach to the program, while Rees, who played quarterback for Notre Dame, has shown a keen understanding of what it takes to develop talent at the position. With the right system in place, Buchner has the potential to thrive, and McElroy believes that, like Burrow, Buchner’s best years could be just around the corner.

One of the key aspects of Burrow’s success at LSU was his ability to utilize the weapons around him. Burrow had one of the most talented receiving corps in the country, with players like Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Terrace Marshall Jr., all of whom would go on to have stellar careers in the NFL. The supporting cast at LSU played a crucial role in Burrow’s success, as his accuracy and decision-making skills were amplified by talented receivers who could make plays after the catch. For Notre Dame, Buchner is surrounded by a similarly talented group of players, including wide receivers like Lorenzo Styles and Michael Mayer, who is widely regarded as one of the top tight ends in the country. With playmakers at every level of the offense, Buchner has the potential to develop into a quarterback who can push the ball down the field and take advantage of the skill around him.

In addition to a strong supporting cast, another key factor in Burrow’s success was his ability to operate within a modern, up-tempo offense. LSU’s offense in 2019 was known for its fast pace and its ability to spread the field, creating opportunities for Burrow to throw deep passes and find mismatches in coverage. The up-tempo nature of the offense helped keep defenses on their heels, forcing them to play catch-up. At Notre Dame, McElroy sees a similar opportunity for Buchner, especially with the emphasis on improving the passing game and expanding the playbook. Under Rees’ guidance, the Irish offense has shown signs of growth, with an increased emphasis on a more aggressive passing attack that will allow Buchner to use his athleticism and arm strength to stretch the field. This offensive approach could provide Buchner with the chance to make the same kind of leap that Burrow did, turning him from a promising but unproven player into a Heisman-caliber candidate.

McElroy also pointed to the mental and physical traits that both Burrow and Buchner share. Burrow was known for his poise, his ability to make plays under pressure, and his leadership qualities—traits that Notre Dame fans are hoping to see develop in Buchner as he gains experience. Buchner has already shown flashes of his potential, particularly during his limited playing time in the 2021 season. His ability to make plays with his legs, combined with his strong arm and willingness to stand in the pocket and make difficult throws, has already made him a fan favorite. As he gains more experience and comfort in the Notre Dame system, McElroy believes that Buchner could develop into the type of leader who can carry the team to new heights, much like Burrow did at LSU.

For Notre Dame fans, McElroy’s comments offer both hope and excitement for the future of the program. The Fighting Irish have long been one of the most storied programs in college football, but in recent years, they have struggled to capture that elusive national championship. With Buchner at quarterback and Freeman leading the charge, however, there is renewed optimism that Notre Dame could finally break through and achieve the kind of success that its passionate fanbase has been waiting for. If Buchner can make the kind of leap that Burrow did at LSU, Notre Dame could find itself competing for a national title once again, with a quarterback who is capable of carrying the team to the promised land.

Of course, the path to a “Joe Burrow-type leap” is not without challenges. It requires not only a talented quarterback but also a coaching staff that is willing to adapt and evolve to put that quarterback in the best position to succeed. The offensive line must provide protection, the running backs must keep defenses honest, and the receivers must make plays when the ball is thrown their way. But if Notre Dame can put all of these pieces together and Buchner can continue to develop and improve, the sky is the limit for both him and the program.

In the coming seasons, all eyes will be on Tyler Buchner as he looks to make his mark on college football. If he can live up to the potential that McElroy believes he has, Notre Dame could be in for an exciting ride, one that mirrors the success of Joe Burrow and LSU in 2019. With a bit of luck, the right system, and a little time, Notre Dame may very well see the kind of quarterback play that elevates the program to new heights and positions them as one of the top contenders in college football once again.