Eric Sorenson
Many inside college football circles are keeping a close eye on where former Scottsdale Desert Mountain High School star Kyle Allen will land after news broke last week he would be transferring from Texas A&M.
As is frequently the case, don’t believe everything you hear when it comes to a player’s future destination. Sure, there’s a “connection” to Allen and the University of Houston where first-year head coach Tom Herman recruited him as the offensive coordinator at Ohio State but I believe a move away from a ‘Power 5′ school simply doesn’t make sense.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pounder has proven he can play at a high level in an elite conference. UH has had an incredible season going 12-1 and reaching the Peach Bowl but playing the likes of Tulane, SMU, UCONN and others in the American Athletic just doesn’t seem like the right fit for Allen who has not only played but for the most part, played well in the Southeastern Conference.
In past conversations he’s been open and honest with me about playing against the highest level of competition on the big stage which the SEC presents. The “12th Man” tradition and sold out Kyle Field crowds at Texas A&M were big selling points in his decision.
Since Allen was an early enrollee at A&M two years ago and never redshirted he will sit out next season before being eligible as a junior for the 2017 season. The University of Oklahoma makes sense for several reasons. Allen could immediately slide into Baker Mayfield’s spot following his expiring eligibility. Also, former DMHS star teammate Mark Andrews has thrived as a redshirt freshman tight end (six touchdown receptions) in Bob Stoops’ offense. Like at TAMU, Allen won’t have to worry about having playmakers around him. The Sooners longevity of success under head coach Bob Stoops, paired with playing in front of huge crowds (much like in College Station) sells itself.
If Allen picks OU he will become the third former Texas A&M quarterback to relocate to the Big 12. Both Matt Joeckel and Kenny Hill transferred to TCU opting for a fresh start. Joeckel was a graduate transfer who backed up Trevone Boykin in 2014. Coincidentally, Hill (who is redshirting this season) is expected to take over for Boykin next season in Fort Worth.
