The UCF Knights are on the hunt for quarterback stability, and they've got their eyes set on James Madison transfer Alonza Barnett III. Known for his dual-threat capabilities and a winning pedigree, Barnett could be just what the Knights need to ignite their offense.
UCF has been on a bit of a quarterback carousel lately, struggling to find a consistent starter. Enter head coach Scott Frost, who saw an opportunity in Barnett III after his standout season with the Dukes. Barnett led James Madison to a College Football Playoff berth, showcasing his skills by putting up 34 points against a tough Oregon defense.
Barnett's move to UCF was highlighted by CBS Sports, ranking ninth among the top transfer quarterback fits. In the playoff game against Oregon, Barnett threw for 273 yards, rushed for 45, and scored three touchdowns. Now, he’s set to bring his dynamic play to Frost's offense at UCF, offering both passing precision and rushing prowess.
The Knights have a history of favoring mobile quarterbacks, and Barnett fits the mold perfectly. Last season, he rushed for 589 yards and added 15 touchdowns on the ground, giving Frost plenty of options to work with.
But it's not just Barnett's physical abilities that have caught Frost’s attention. It’s his leadership and winning mentality that stand out.
"What I love more than anything about Alonza is he's a winner and he's a proven winner," Frost noted. "His leadership and toughness are exactly what we need."
Having a clear QB1 from day one is a luxury for Frost, who had to make a last-minute decision on a starter last season. This time around, with Barnett in the fold, there's a sense of stability and confidence.
UCF's general manager, Trent Mossbrucker, explained the strategic move to bring Barnett on board. With coaching changes at James Madison sparking rumors, Barnett became a prime target.
"You start to identify key players when coaching shifts happen," Mossbrucker said. "Watching Barnett’s games confirmed he’s the right fit for us."
Barnett's arrival at UCF is more than just a transfer; it’s a potential game-changer for the Knights. With his talent and leadership, Barnett is poised to lead UCF to new heights.