5-Star QB Stuns College Football World with Shocking Decommitment from West Virginia, Flips Commitment to Auburn tigers Over Powerhouses Penn State, Tennessee and More
In a seismic shift that has reverberated throughout the college football world, five-star quarterback Deuce Knight has decommitted from Notre Dame and pledged his future to the Auburn Tigers. This unexpected turn of events has sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape, as Knight was previously considered a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish’s 2025 class. His decision to join Auburn marks a significant victory for head coach Hugh Freeze and the Tigers’ program.
Deuce Knight’s journey to national prominence began at George County High School in Lucedale, Mississippi. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 210 pounds, Knight possesses the physical attributes that make him a prototypical quarterback for the modern game. His dual-threat capabilities were on full display during his high school career, where he showcased a potent combination of arm strength and mobility.
In his junior season, Knight threw for 2,047 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 494 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite missing four games in his senior year, he managed to accumulate 2,082 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, along with 450 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. These impressive statistics underscore his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground, making him a dynamic threat for any defense.
Knight initially committed to Notre Dame in September 2023, a decision that was met with enthusiasm from the Fighting Irish faithful. The program, under head coach Marcus Freeman, has been in search of a long-term solution at quarterback, having experienced a revolving door at the position in recent years. Knight’s commitment was seen as a potential stabilizing force for the offense.
However, in a surprising twist, Knight decommitted from Notre Dame in October 2024. The timing of his decision raised eyebrows, as it came shortly after a visit to Auburn’s campus. The Tigers, under the leadership of head coach Hugh Freeze, had been making a concerted effort to recruit Knight, and their pitch resonated with the talented quarterback.
In his announcement, Knight cited the vision presented by Coach Freeze and the Auburn coaching staff as pivotal factors in his decision. “This was a tough decision, but after much thought, prayer, and conversations with my family, I feel Auburn is where I belong,” Knight stated. “Coach Freeze and his staff have shown me their vision, and I believe I can thrive in their system both on and off the field.”
Auburn’s pursuit of Knight was part of a broader strategy to revitalize its quarterback room. The Tigers had experienced inconsistency at the position in recent years, and the addition of a talent like Knight was seen as a potential game-changer. His commitment adds a significant piece to Auburn’s 2025 recruiting class, which has been bolstered by several high-profile signings.
Head coach Hugh Freeze’s reputation for developing quarterbacks played a crucial role in Knight’s decision. Freeze’s track record includes successful tenures at Ole Miss and Liberty, where he developed quarterbacks who went on to achieve success at the collegiate level. His ability to tailor offensive schemes to the strengths of his quarterbacks was an appealing aspect for Knight.
Knight’s commitment to Auburn has broader implications for college football recruiting. His decision underscores the shifting dynamics of the recruiting process, where players are increasingly seeking programs that offer not only a platform for success but also a system that aligns with their individual skill sets.
The ripple effect of Knight’s flip has been felt across the recruiting landscape. Programs that were in pursuit of Knight, including Notre Dame, have had to reevaluate their quarterback recruiting strategies. Additionally, Auburn’s success in securing Knight’s commitment may influence other top-tier recruits to consider the Tigers as a viable destination.
As Knight prepares to join Auburn, the college football world will be closely watching his development within the Tigers’ program. His arrival brings a renewed sense of optimism to Auburn’s fanbase, who are eager to see how his talents translate to the collegiate level.
For Notre Dame, Knight’s decommitment serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of recruiting. While the Fighting Irish will continue to pursue other quarterback prospects, the loss of Knight represents a significant setback in their efforts to solidify the position for the future.
Deuce Knight’s decision to flip his commitment from Notre Dame to Auburn is a landmark moment in college football recruiting. His blend of physical prowess, dual-threat capabilities, and alignment with Auburn’s offensive vision makes him a valuable addition to the Tigers’ program. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Knight and Auburn to see how this high-profile commitment impacts the landscape of college football.
