Chris Tyree returns to Notre Dame Stadium for the first time since he transferred from the program at the end of last season. Tyree spent four years in South Bend, where he became known for his explosive athleticism and do-it-all skillset. Now a Virginia Cavalier, he will use his talent to try to beat Notre Dame.
Photo by The Irish Tribune
Chris Tyree came to Notre Dame as a high 4-star running back, with the reputation of being one of the fastest players on the team. During his freshman year, he immediately became a huge part of the Notre Dame offense, rushing for 496 yards and four touchdowns, and was a big piece in the Irish return game.
In 2021, Tyree's conversion into a gadget player that could play anywhere on the field really started to take hold, as he would tally 258 receiving yards and 222 rushing yards. Although the volume was jumping off the page, Tyree found ways to create plays, and even found the end zone four times. One of these touchdowns was probably his most memorable plays at Notre Dame, and it came in the form of a kickoff return against Wisconsin. The game was tied 10-10 to start the fourth quarter, and Wisconsin was set to kickoff. Tyree proceeded to take this kick back for a touchdown, which ignited a 31-3 run in the fourth quarter with the Irish winning 41-13.
Tyree had his best rushing season the following year in 2022. In that season, he ran for 444 yards and three touchdowns. This offense featured a three-headed rushing attack of Tyree, Logan Diggs, and Audric Estime that totaled 2,186 yards. He was also able to make a meaningful impact in the passing game, adding 138 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
Last season, Tyree fully converted into a wide receiver. A move that was made by the coaching staff, due to the lack of playmakers and depth at the position. Tyree seamlessly made the transition look easy, which brought praise from the coaching staff for his willingness to adapt and help the team in any way possible. In the 2023 season, Tyree racked up 484 yards and three touchdowns. He was always a big play threat for the offense, with a season long 76 yard reception. Sam Hartman and Tyree also connected on a deep ball against USC that resulted in a touchdown, helping the Irish knock off the undefeated Trojans. Tyree finished the season, but was one of the many receivers who would elect to transfer at the end of the year. Before making his move to Virginia, he was able to finish his time at Notre Dame with a degree in education.
Now, Tyree is playing wide receiver for Virginia, which is only a little over an hour away from his hometown of Chester, VA. So far this year, Tyree only has 124 yards, but Notre Dame knows better than anyone that he is dangerous any time he touches the ball. Luckily for Notre Dame, Tyree won't have any advantage knowing signals or plays. Freeman was asked about this situation, but he explained that he wasn't worried about that due to a new offensive coordinator and scheme. Tyree has yet to find the end zone this season, but a homecoming game might be all the motivation he needs to change that.
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