Blake Barnett to Arizona State: Latest Transfer Details, Comments, Reaction

Former Alabama redshirt freshman quarterback Blake Barnett decided to join the Arizona State Sun Devils on Monday.

Barnett announced the news on his Twitter account: 

Along with Barnett, Sun Devils head coach Todd Graham, offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Chip Lindsey and receivers coach Jay Norvell are all shown in the picture. 

Barnett began the 2016 season as the Crimson Tide's starting quarterback, completing five of six passes for 100 yards and one touchdown against USC.

But after Jalen Hurts replaced him under center, Barnett was used sparingly over Alabama's next three games, prompting his withdrawal from the school. 

According to Barton Simmons of 247Sports, Barnett could follow a path that ensures he doesn't miss his entire 2017 season due to transfer rules:

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According to bylaw 14.5.6 in the NCAA transfer guide, Barnett as a 4-2-4 transfer (four-year institution, to a junior college, and back to a four-year institution), can be eligible one calendar year from the date of his transfer from Alabama so long as he graduates with a GPA above 2.5 over an average of 12 hours per term at the certifying institution of Barnett's choosing. ... The timing of Barnett's transfer is what makes him a possible trailblazer: He'd be eligible to play the conference schedule at his next destination.

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So for those deeming Barnett's move surprising going to junior college, there is an added motive behind such a decision that could allow FBS fans to see him on the field next year.

Coming out of Santiago High School in California, Barnett was a 5-star prospect and the country's No. 2-ranked quarterback, per Scout.com. 

A pro-style passer, Barnett has shown the ability to hang in the pocket and provide accurate throws to all parts of the field.

Now Barnett will have the opportunity to learn under Graham and sophomore quarterback Manny Wilkins. The Sun Devils went 5-7 this season, while Wilkins threw for 2,329 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions.