DJ Durkin reveals where Ashton Daniels future stands, potential for redshirt

Auburn finds itself in a tough and unusual position. Interim head coach DJ Durkin certainly feels like they have found a quarterback in Ashton Daniels, who put on a great display against Vanderbilt. But if he plays in the final two games of the season, Daniels is out of eligibility. So, the question becomes, does Auburn play the Stanford transfer vs. Mercer to protect the redshirt?

Due to a bye week, everyone involved in the process has time to completely figure it out. Durkin spoke on the matter Wednesday on the SEC Coaches Teleconference, saying they are trying to find a solution that provides balance.

“That has been discussed and is still in discussion,” Durkin said. “No final decision on it yet but obviously, that’s been brought up before. We talked about it with him. I really feel, as a head coach, you have a responsibility to both the young men in your program, individually, and collectively the team and the university. You get to do what’s best.

“You always want to thread that needle in what’s best for both. That’s what I’m working through in conversation with him and his family and our coaching staff and our team. We will make a decision on that here in the near future. But we haven’t yet. There are several things to talk about and consider. All that is ongoing right now.”

Daniels dropped back to pass 44 times in the Vanderbilt game, throwing for 353 yards and two touchdowns. You can add another two scores and 89 yards on the ground, showing great ability outside of the pocket despite not being a traditional dual-threat at 6-2, 219 pounds. Overall, by far the best quarterback play Auburn has gotten this season. It’s easy to see why Durkin wants him out there.

But at the same time, nobody truly expects Mercer to give Auburn much of a test. Jackson Arnold might step back into the starting role, or true freshman Duece Knight gets his first chance. The Tigers will be heavily favored either way, no matter which of the three starts.

Auburn closes out the regular season with the Iron Bowl against Alabama. No matter the decision, you can expect Daniels out there. After all, a win will be required in order for the program to gain bowl eligibility. And if they do, Daniels does not get penalized for playing in the game.