Dillon Gabriel: USC, Oregon emerge as top-two for transfer quarterback
USC and Oregon emerged as the top two destinations for Oklahoma QB transfer Dillon Gabriel, according to On3’s Pete Nakos.
As of now, the Ducks are the favorite to land the transfer quarterback. However, the Trojans and Lincoln Riley are making a push, per Nakos.
Gabriel spent the last two years with the Sooners after spending the beginning of his college career at UCF. With one year of eligibility, Gabriel looks to capitalize on one more big season.
Oregon and USC have Bo Nix and Caleb Williams heading to the NFL after the season, so either one is a logical opening at the moment.
Nakos also reported Mississippi State was one school to watch as of Monday. But it appears the impending Big Ten schools in 2024 are the front-runners.
Dillon Gabriel a sought after QB in transfer portal
Gabriel had quite the year, although it didn’t end in a Big 12 title and College Football Playoff appearance with the Sooners. However, he led an epic victory over Texas, the eventual Big 12 champion and CFP participant.
“The past 2 years here at OU as a Sooner I have made memories with friends and family that remind me how blessed I am,” Gabriel wrote in a statement. “I have been able to play football for an amazing group of coaches and alongside men who have become my brothers. More than anything I have grown in faith and love. I appreciate and cherish these memories and relationships forever.
“My time in the palace was a game time experience I will never forget. Sooner Nation, you held me accountable and I am better for it. Coach BV, my coaches, and the football staff, I am grateful for your care, knowledge and insight. Most of all, thanks for your faith in me and the opportunity to lead and be a member of OU’s Team 128 and 129.”
This year, Gabriel finished with 3,660 yards, 30 touchdowns, six interceptions, a 69.3% completion percentage, 373 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns.
Over the course of his career with UCF and Oklahoma, Gabriel has 14,865 yards, 125 touchdowns, 26 interceptions, a 63.1% completion percentage, 1,060 rushing yards and 26 rushing touchdowns.
As a member of the Class of 2019, Gabriel was a three-star recruit out of Mililani (Hawaii) High, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 7 overall prospect in the state, the No. 44 quarterback in the class and the No. 680 overall prospect in the class.