Oregon Quarterback Austin Novosad Weighs Transfer Options Amid Playoff Run
As the No. 5 Oregon Ducks prepare for their Orange Bowl matchup against No. 4 Texas Tech, quarterback Austin Novosad finds himself at a crossroads, having reportedly entered the transfer portal while remaining committed to the team’s playoff aspirations. Eight Oregon players have now declared their intention to enter the portal, with six doing so since the conclusion of the regular season.
ESPN first reported Novosad’s intent to transfer on Saturday, with the portal officially opening on Friday and closing on January 16.The timing of a potential move is complicated by Oregon’s continued success in the College Football Playoffs, with a possible advancement to the Peach Bowl on January 9 potentially influencing his decision.
The redshirt sophomore has seen limited action this season, completing 1 of 2 passes for 40 yards in the season opener against Montana State. With walk-on Brock Thomas assuming the backup role, a departure for Novosad appears increasingly likely.However, the quarterback insists he remains focused on contributing to the current team.
“I feel like I owe it to this team, I owe it to the coaching staff and myself,” Novosad stated.”I put in a lot of hard work and I want to help this team out as much as I can. That’s what I’m doing.”
The situation presents a delicate balance for both Novosad and the program. University of Oregon historical precedent suggests that entering the portal mid-playoff run could preclude him from continuing with the team. “It’s a tough spot,” Novosad acknowledged. “It’s all about the timing and what’s best for myself as well as the team. Got to see where it goes and play it day by day.”
Novosad arrived at Oregon as a highly-touted four-star recruit, ranked as the No. 10 quarterback and No.126 overall prospect in the class of 2023. During his three years at Dripping Springs (Texas) High School,he completed 64.5% of his passes for 8,983 yards, throwing 114 touchdowns against 18 interceptions.
Speculation arose regarding a potential move to Kentucky following offensive coordinator Will Stein’s appointment as head coach there. Though, reports from Lexington indicate that a reunion was unlikely. novosad declined to comment directly on the possibility, stating he is “awaiting options once they become formalized.”
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Why is this happening? Austin Novosad,a redshirt sophomore quarterback for the Oregon Ducks,has entered the transfer portal despite the team’s ongoing playoff run. This decision stems from limited playing time this season, with walk-on Brock Thomas now the primary backup.
Who is involved? The key players are Austin Novosad, the Oregon Ducks coaching staff, potential receiving schools (like Kentucky, though a reunion appears unlikely), and the eight other Oregon players who have also entered the transfer portal.
What has happened? Eight Oregon players, including Novosad, have declared their intention to transfer. Novosad entered the portal while still committed to helping the Ducks in the playoffs. The portal opened Friday and closes January 16.
How did it end (so far)? As of now, novosad remains with the team while exploring his options. His continued participation in the playoffs is uncertain, as entering the portal mid-season could jeopardize his eligibility. He is awaiting formalized options from other schools. The Ducks will face Texas Tech (12-1) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on thursday, January 1, at 9 a.m. PT, with the game broadcast on ESPN.Streaming options include DIRECTV (free trial) and Sling (a Sling day pass is available for $4.99).
