"Why would he go backwards?": Fans left confused with Oregon State QB commit Maalik Murphy's transfer portal move

The world of college football transfers continues to be a massive aspect of the sport as the transfer window is open. Quarterback Maalik Murphy has shown the ability to move as he went from the Texas Longhorns in 2023 to the Duke Blue Devils in 2024 and is now joining a third team in three years.

On Thursday, Murphy reportedly committed to the Oregon State Beavers.

Murphy has been a dominant quarterback as he finished this season 254 of 421 (60.3%) for 2,933 yards with 26 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.

People have voiced their opinions, with some questioning the move for Maalik Murphy as a downgrade.

"Man, him and his team are short sighted. Moving backwards to make college money rather than preparing to make nfl money. Fire the whole team," one commenter posted

"I love Murphy but this is definitely a downgrade. They don't een play in a real conference. Their roster is probably worse than duke. Whoever is advising him is giving him horrible advice," another person posted on social media.

Others on social media discussed how this could be more of a positive aspect for Maalik Murphy.

"This move will catapult this young man into a professional! Can't wait to see him in this offense! He brings a ton to the table," someone replied to the post.

"I'm sure why everyone is so salty!!!...And a downgrade???? Beavers won the Pac 12 Championship this yr," one Twitter user commented.

Who will Maalik Murphy compete for the starting quarterback spot?

The Oregon State Beavers have a lot of quarterbacks on their roster and are now adding Maalik Murphy to join them in the Pac-12. However, he is not going to be awarded the starting quarterback spot right away as Ben Gulbranson is the current QB1.

Going off of 2024 stats, Murphy has a distinct advantage as Gulbranson was limited to four games and went 78 of 128 (60.9%) with four touchdowns and four interceptions. With a team like Oregon State that barely missed competing in a bowl game, Murphy will likely be named the starter.