3 technically open QB battles that were totally decided in spring camp

Major college football programs around the country have QB battles to resolve. These are the ones that are technically open but practically settled.

Every year, the most exciting part of college football spring camps is watching quarterback battles unfold. And there were plenty to keep track of from UCLA to Ohio State to Alabama and everywhere in between.

Some programs, like USC with the reigning Heisman Trophy winner returning, didn’t have to worry about the top of their QB depth chart. Others, like Texas, felt comfortable naming a starter after spring ball.

Then there are the coaches who seems content to push their quarterback competitions to fall camp, even if it’s clear to everyone else that a starter has emerged.

Today, we’re looking at three such quarterback battles that are technically still open, but essentially closed.

Notre Dame QB battle: Sam Hartman over Tyler Buchner

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman told reporters after the Spring Game on Apr. 22 that the quarterback competition between Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman and three-game starter Tyler Buchner would continue beyond spring camp.

Does anyone really believe him?

The Spring Game made it very clear who will be the starter and who will be the backup. Hartman scored three touchdowns, two through the air and one on the ground. He went 13-of-16 passing with 189 yards. Meanwhile, Buchner was 8-of-18 for 44 yards.

Yeah, Freeman can say whatever he wants but Hartman looked the part and Buchner didn’t. This battle is over.