Why Deuce Knight's Skillset Entices Major Programs
If there's one position you must thoroughly examine, it's quarterback. Having the right signal caller at the helm is the best way to ensure wins in the fall; that's why Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel recruits multiple quarterbacks at a time.
We are beginning to learn Heupel's tendencies and likes with quarterbacks, meaning we can zero in on his top priorities. We thought there were four clear 2025 quarterback targets for the Vols: George MacIntyre, Cutter Boley, Antwann Hill, and KJ Lacey. However, it seems we initially overlooked Mississippi native Deuce Knight.
Knight has added eight offers since the New Year, including Mississippi State, Auburn, Washington, Texas A&M, and Notre Dame. The Vols offered him last summer, and sources confirm the coaching staff has consistently communicated with Knight since then.
He plays football for George County High School in Lucedale, Mississippi. Knight is the younger brother of Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Ty Fryfogle, who was a standout for Indiana. Knight logged his first season as a varsity starting quarterback in 2022 and showcased his intriguing potential.
George County struggled in his first season as a starter; the Rebels went 2-8, starting the season losing six consecutive games. However, Knight accounted for 23 total touchdowns, 12 of which came via his legs. He threw for nearly 2,000 yards and only threw four interceptions in nine starts.
There's certainly room for growth throughout Knight's progression, but his physical gifts are unquestionable. He's 6-4 and 190 pounds with dynamic athleticism and a talented arm. George County maximized Knight's strengths by putting the football in his hands and letting him work.
The lefty has a fluid, athletic base that allows him to hop in and out of pocket windows. Unlike other powerful runners in today's game, like Josh Allen or Cam Newton, Knight uses his speed to allude and outrun defenders.
Knight is comfortable getting his eyes in the correct spot; George County had him read second-level defenders when running quarterback keepers and often executed outside concepts where he would work a high-low concept.
The on-field progressions weren't world-shattering. The Rebels often ran twin sets, running several similar passing concepts to target one defender. However, the Vols run a similar offense that would allow Knight to step in and learn an offense in a comfortable setting. He's also an excellent student and wants to maximize his gifts, meaning getting into the film room and getting more comfortable at the line of scrimmage.
Sources confirm that offensive coordinator Joey Halzle has made Knight feel like a priority thus far. His junior season will be an essential factor when Tennessee is deciding on their 2025 quarterback, but Knight's early body of work appears enticing.
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