Wimbush preps as Notre Dame QB in CFP before maybe leaving

COTTON BOWL NO. 3 NOTRE DAME VS. NO. 2 CLEMSON SATURDAY, 4 P.M. (ESPN)

DALLAS — Brandon Wimbush is practicing with Notre Dame to be the No. 2 quarterback in the Cotton Bowl amid questions about the former starter’s future with the third-ranked Fighting Irish after the College Football Playoff.

Several media reports say Wimbush has notified Notre Dame that he intends to transfer. The senior already has a degree and could go to another school and play immediately as a graduate transfer.

“He’s a competitor. The guy knows how to play football and he wants to make plays on the football field,” center and team captain Sam Mustipher said. “For him to move on is in his best interest and I think the team has an understanding of that, and we’re not angry at him for pursuing another opportunity.”

Notre Dame offensive coordinator Chip Long said Wednesday that Wimbush and the team are fully focused on Saturday’s semifinal game against secondranked Clemson.

Long said Wimbush hasn’t told him if he plans to transfer after the season. “And I haven’t really broached it with him,” Long said.

Wimbush was Notre Dame’s starter the first three games before getting replaced by junior Ian Book. Wimbush started 12 games last year, when he became only the third quarterback in school history with more than 1,000 yards passing (1,870) and 500 yards rushing (803) in the same season.

Long said Wimbush had a great practice after the team got to North Texas for its first CFP game.

“What his future holds, we wish him nothing but the best. He’s been a great player for me, one that I hold near to my heart,” Long said. “Whatever he decides to do he’s going to be successful in whatever he wants to do.”

Jim Cowsert / Associated Press Notre Dame quarterback Brandon Wimbush throws a pass during team practice at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Monday.