"Auburn lives for mid QB’s": CFB world has wild reactions to former Oklahoma QB Jackson Arnold's latest transfer portal move

The college football world was buzzing after Jackson Arnold, a former five-star recruit and Oklahoma quarterback, announced his commitment to Auburn on Saturday. This move also meant canceling his planned visit to Mississippi State, which came to light after Arnold entered the transfer portal on Dec. 4.

For Auburn, landing Arnold couldn’t have come at a better time. The Tigers desperately need a QB1 next season, and Arnold’s decision gives them a promising option at the helm. However, the reactions on social media were divided.

One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote,

"Auburn lives for mid QB’s"

“I’m fully prepared to be hurt again,” another wrote.

“Lol. Freeze trying to get fired,” a fan wrote.

“Good luck Jackson! From a Sooner fan,” another wrote.

Some fans weren’t so cynical:

“With a core of starting receivers, o-line and some actually QB development Jackson Arnold is going to be alright,” another wrote.

In the 2024 season, Arnold completed 154 of 246 passes for 1,421 yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions. He also showed his dual-threat ability, rushing for 444 yards and three touchdowns.

Jackson Arnold stood out in the transfer portal as a top-10 quarterback

Former Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold has joined the Southeastern Conference rival Auburn, bringing two years of eligibility with him.

Former Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Jackson Arnold - Source: Imagn

Arnold, a highly touted prospect, stood out in the transfer portal as a top-50 player overall and a top-10 quarterback, per Montgomery Advertiser. The former five-star recruit had an impressive high school career, earning the 2022 National Gatorade Player of the Year award and Elite 11 MVP honors. ESPN ranked him as the third-best player in his class and the top quarterback in the country.

At Oklahoma, Arnold flashed potential in two seasons, completing 62.9% of his passes for 1,984 yards, 16 touchdowns and six interceptions. He rushed for 560 yards and four scores, showing versatility with two receptions, including one for a touchdown.

His sophomore season was a rollercoaster. After starting as QB1 following a year behind Dillon Gabriel, Arnold struggled early and lost his spot to freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. However, he bounced back late in the season, tallying over 700 passing yards and five touchdowns in his final four games.

Now, Jackson Arnold gets a fresh start at Auburn, where he'll look to make an immediate impact in the SEC.