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After a few weeks of speculation, Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly announced quarterback Malik Zaire as his starter for the Music City Bowl at a Monday press conference.
In a joint media appearance with Les Miles on Monday, Kelly gave the nod to the sophomore for his first career start. Everett Golson had started every game this season, but was benched during the Fighting Irish’s season finale against Southern California in favor of Zaire.
Brian Kelly says Malik Zaire will start at QB tomorrow. Everett Golson will play as well #LSU #ND
— James Moran (@SmartestMoran) December 29, 2014
Kelly declined to name a starter until Monday, but has maintained throughout bowl preparation that both Golson and Zaire will play, something he reiterated on Monday. Kelly also said that he has a good idea of how he will use both quarterbacks.
Golson was considered a dark-horse Heisman candidate coming into the season after being suspended all of last season, but struggled with turnovers throughout the season. He threw 14 interceptions in the regular season and led the nation with eight fumbles lost.
Zaire threw his first passes of the season against Southern Cal, completing 9-0f-20 attempts for 170 yards while leading two scoring drives.
A former freelance journalist from Philadelphia, Brett has made the trek down to SEC country to cover the greatest conference in college football.
