Reports: Robby Ashford named Wake Forest's starting QB

Field Level Media|published: Sun 24th August, 19:32 2025

Oct 12, 2024; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Robby Ashford (1) throws a pass during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-Imagn Images

Well-traveled Robby Ashford has been named the starting quarterback at Wake Forest, according to multiple reports on Sunday.

Demon Deacons coach Jake Dickert reportedly announced the news to the team.

Ashford, a former starter at Auburn, beat out DeShawn Purdie for the gig.

Wake Forest opens the season on Friday night against visiting Kennesaw State.

Ashford is at his fourth school on a journey that began at Oregon, moved to Auburn and continued at South Carolina. He transferred to Wake Forest in January.

Ashford, a four-star recruit, didn't make any appearances in his two seasons with the Ducks (2020-21) before he departed for Auburn. He was the main starter in 2022 when he passed for 1,613 yards, seven touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also rushed for 710 yards and seven scores.

In 2023, Hugh Freeze was Auburn's coach and he picked Payton Thorne as the starter. Ashford threw just 27 passes but did rush for 217 yards and five touchdowns before exiting the program following the season.

Ashford was the backup to LaNorris Sellers at South Carolina last season and completed 23 of 32 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 227 yards and two touchdowns before again departing.

Purdie is a transfer from Charlotte. He passed for 1,802 yards, 10 touchdowns and six interceptions last season.

--Field Level Media

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