Notre Dame quarterback Malik Zaire lost his starting job in Week 2 of the 2015 season due to injury, and after backing up DeShone Kizer last season, is expected to transfer from the school. Many expect Kizer to enter the NFL Draft (he's a projected first-round pick), but Zaire didn't want to take his chances and seems ready for a fresh start - potentially leaving Notre Dame very thin at quarterback next season. Zaire will be eligible to play next season as a graduate transfer, meaning he will provide an immediate boost to whoever lands his services. Here are the five schools he is the most likely to transfer to:
5) Cal Golden Bears
Cal flourished under Davis Webb this season, under graduate transfer at quarterback, who chose Cal because he wanted to get as many throws as possible on tape for NFL scouts. Zaire has similar goals of a professional career, and while Cal isn't one of the top favorites, they've shown they can handle this situation well.
4) Auburn Tigers
Auburn has NFL talent all over the roster, but their quarterbacks present zero threat of a passing attack. The Tigers have played all three of their quarterbacks this season, often rotating them in the same game - or even the same drive. If Auburn wants to meet their championship aspirations, this is a position they have to sure up. They are also pursuing Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham.
3) LSU Tigers
Just like Auburn, the lack of effective quarterback play has kept LSU from really becoming a legitimate contender. Ed Orgeron knows he needs to improve the offense, and grabbing a high-quality quarterback right away like Zaire would be the splash he needs. Zaire would also get to play in a pro-style system on a team that will be right in the thick of a playoff race.
2) Michigan State Spartans
Michigan State has a dominant running game, led by L.J. Scott, and head coach Mark Dantonio knows how to coach an elite defense - all they're missing is a quarterback. According to Irish Illustrated, the Spartans have emerged as one of the early favorites to land Zaire, who is an Ohio native. They would allow him to play right away somewhat close to his home, and play in a pro-style offense.
Oh yeah, and he'd get to play Notre Dame on Sept. 23 in a revenge game.
1) Florida Gators
Florida and Michigan State are really neck-and-neck, the Gators likely have a small advantage. There is no question about this team's talent level - they've won the last two SEC East titles without reliable quarterback play - and would be a legitimate playoff contender with him on their roster. Plus, head coach Jim McElwain's background is as an offensive coordinator and turned quarterback Garrett Grayson into an NFL draft pick at Colorado State. Zaire could flourish in Florida's system.