Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis announced today that junior Evan Sharpley would get his first start at quarterback on Saturday against USC, replacing freshman Jimmy Clausen. He will become the third quarterback to start for the struggling Irish this season, following Demetrius Jones (who started the first game and left school after he was replaced) and Clausen (who has started every game since).

Sharpley has appeared in all but one game in relief, completing 53.8% of his passes and throwing for 379 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Clausen had completed 57.4% of his passes for 618 yards, but has thrown for just one touchdown and has been picked off five times. The Irish have scored only seven offensive touchdowns all season, and Sharpley was behind center on four of those drives. Said Weis of his new starter, “I think Evan this week gives us the best chance of winning.”

The Irish will likely also be without their starting tailback against the Trojans. James Aldridge has suffered a high ankle sprain and is doubtful for Saturday’s game.

Weis says Sharpley at QB represents ‘best chance of winning’ (AP via ESPN)