In a stunning development shaking up the college football landscape, elite quarterback prospect Deuce Knight has backed out of his Auburn commitment and pledged to join the Oregon Ducks instead, triggering a major shift ahead of the 2025 season. Knight, widely recognized as a five-star dual-threat quarterback, reportedly agreed to a three-year deal with Oregon, where he’s expected to eventually succeed outgoing starter Dillon Gabriel.
Who is Deuce Knight?
Hailing from Lucedale, Mississippi, Deuce Knight stands out as one of the most dynamic athletes in the 2025 class. Measuring 6-foot-4 and weighing 213 pounds, Knight blends size, arm talent, and mobility like few others. Over his high school career, he racked up 7,855 passing yards and 56 touchdown passes, along with 1,361 rushing yards and 31 rushing scores.
Knight is also a top-tier track and field athlete, having claimed state championships in the high jump and long jump—highlighting just how elite his overall athleticism is.
Why the Flip from Auburn to Oregon?
Knight’s initial decision to commit to Auburn was a big recruiting win for head coach Hugh Freeze. However, Oregon’s track record in developing quarterbacks and operating a high-powered offense proved too enticing. With Dillon Gabriel heading to the NFL after a stellar campaign, Knight sees a path to early playing time in Eugene.
Oregon’s recent success at quarterback has turned it into a top destination for QBs, and Knight will likely compete for the starting role within a year or two. His flip is a huge coup for Oregon—and a big blow to Auburn’s plans.
Stat Comparison: Knight vs. Gabriel
| Metric | Deuce Knight (HS Career) | Dillon Gabriel (2024 Oregon) |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 7,855 | 3,857 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 56 | 30 |
| Rushing Yards | 1,361 | 373 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 31 | 12 |
Though Knight’s numbers are from high school, his potential as a dual-threat quarterback mirrors what Gabriel brought to Oregon’s offense. With the right development, Knight could surpass Gabriel’s college production and become a foundational player for the Ducks.
What This Means for Oregon
With Knight on board, Oregon adds yet another dynamic weapon to its quarterback room. His dual-threat ability fits perfectly into Dan Lanning and Will Stein’s explosive offensive system. Knight’s commitment not only enhances Oregon’s future but also sends a strong message to other top recruits across the country.
The Fallout for Auburn
Auburn now finds itself scrambling after losing one of its centerpiece recruits. Fortunately, the Tigers still have a talented quarterback in Jackson Arnold. Still, Hugh Freeze and his staff will need to regroup quickly as they reassess their quarterback depth and recruiting plans moving into 2025.
What’s Next?
Deuce Knight’s decision to flip to Oregon could become one of the defining moves of the 2025 recruiting cycle. With elite skills and leadership potential, he might soon become the face of Ducks football. For Oregon, this is more than a win—it’s a statement that they intend to stay among the most dangerous offensive programs in the country.