Deuce Knight's Historic First Start

A Performance for the Ages

In his first career start, Auburn freshman quarterback Deuce Knight delivered a performance that will be remembered for years. The Mississippi native accounted for 401 total yards and six touchdowns as the Tigers demolished Mercer 62-17 at Jordan-Hare Stadium on November 22, 2025.

Knight's six-touchdown performance tied an Auburn school record, showcasing the dual-threat ability that made him one of the nation's top quarterback prospects. The freshman displayed poise beyond his years, making interim head coach DJ Durkin's decision to start him look prescient.

The Numbers

Context: A Tumultuous Season

Knight's debut came during a challenging 5-6 season for Auburn, with the Tigers sitting at 1-6 in SEC play. The performance provided a rare bright spot and a glimpse of hope for the program's future.

The game marked Knight's first start after Auburn made a quarterback change following a difficult stretch that included losses to Kentucky (10-3) and Vanderbilt (45-38 in overtime).

Impressing Coaches and Teammates

According to multiple reports, Knight's performance impressed not just the coaching staff but his teammates as well. His ability to command the offense and make plays with both his arm and legs drew praise from across the Auburn program.

Looking Ahead: The Iron Bowl

Knight's record-breaking debut comes at a crucial time, just one week before Auburn faces rival Alabama in the Iron Bowl on November 29. While the Tigers are out of bowl contention at 5-6, they have the opportunity to play spoiler against a #10-ranked Alabama team fighting for College Football Playoff positioning.

The question now is whether Knight can replicate this performance against one of the nation's top defenses. If his debut is any indication, Alabama's defense will need to prepare for a dynamic dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays in multiple ways.

Historical Significance

Knight joins a lineage of Auburn quarterbacks who have made memorable debuts, though few have done so with such statistical dominance. His six-touchdown performance puts him in elite company in Auburn history and sets high expectations for his future with the program.

The Bottom Line

While Mercer may not be an SEC opponent, Knight's performance demonstrated the tools that made him a highly-touted recruit. His ability to process the game, make accurate throws, and use his legs to extend plays all showed up on the stat sheet.

As Auburn prepares for the Iron Bowl, the Tigers now have a new weapon—and Alabama has a new problem to solve.