When the Corona (Calif.) signal caller decided to transfer out of the Crimson Tide program it became apparent that his destination school would be a member of the Pac-12 conference. Tonight, Blake Barnett as expected settled on such a school announcing that he had committed to the Sun Devils, while granting its head coach Todd Graham a memorable birthday gift.
The 6-5 215 Barnett suited up for Alabama’s first four games of the 2016 season, and played in three of them. In limited action, he completed 11-19 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns. Due to lack of playing time Barnett decided to transfer out of the program. It seemed like an odd timing to make such a major move and it was met with much criticism both locally and nationally.
However, to ensure that he would be able to play in 2017 and have three years of eligibility he had to enroll in a junior college, and the Southern California native is attending (but not playing) at Palomar Junior College in San Marcos, Calif.
According to NCAA rules Barnett could play at another FBS school after the fourth game of the 2017 season as long as he graduates from a junior college. Barnett, who is a redshirt freshman that enrolled early at Alabama, has accumulated enough credits to graduate from a junior college in December. Thus, he will be a spring enrollee at the school of his choice and have three years of eligibility.
Barnett did unofficially visit ASU during the Utah game, and as disappointing as the result was that night; it did nothing to adversely impact Barnett and his family who were on the visit. According to a source close his recruitment they left Tempe very impressed with the coaching staff and the overall opportunity to play for ASU. This is when more than ever the Sun Devils emerged as a serious option for him.
The quarterback did officially visit Washington State for the Apple Cup on November 25th and his official visit to Tempe this past weekend was widely believed to be his last one to any of his suitors giving ASU the last face to face on-campus meeting. Consequently, he ended his recruiting process tonight while Graham, offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey and wide receivers coach Jay Norvell were on an in-home visit. Barnett was believed to also have considered Oregon and Cal over the last couple of months.
The Sun Devils may have a crowded quarterback group going into spring of 2017, and the competition level has now increased with Barnett’s arrival. Returning starter and redshirt junior Manny Wilkins will be mainly challenged by Barnett and true freshman Dillon Sterling-Cole who saw limited action in 2016. Redshirt sophomore Bryce Perkins will have a lot of rust to knock off in the spring after missing the majority of fall camp and the entire season due to a neck injury. Redshirt sophomore Brady White will probably not be able to practice full contact until fall camp due to a serious foot injury. Incoming freshman Ryan Kelley arrives in the summer and as it was a virtual lock to redshirt.
Barnett is fundamentally sound with above average mechanics especially with his footwork and delivery. His attributes are completed by his deep knowledge of the game and sound decision making. Barnett is a mobile quarterback who can extend plays if needed. He has good pocket presence and can not only evade sacks but make big plays with his arm while scrambling. Barnett has good accuracy and a fairly quick release.
At 6-5 215 Barnett would need to further improve his bulk and the physical aspect of his skill set. He enters a very creative offensive system and will play for an innovative offensive coordinator in Chip Lindsey, and will enjoy a strong supporting running game with seniors Demario Richard and Kalen Ballage.
