Wake Forest has officially named redshirt senior Robby Ashford as their starting quarterback, according to multiple reports on Sunday. Demon Deacons coach Jake Dickert informed the team of the decision ahead of Friday night's season opener against Kennesaw State. Ashford is a former four-star recruit who has had a winding collegiate career that has spenned four schools: Oregon, Auburn, South Carolina, and now Wake Forest. Ashford beat out Charlotte transfer Deshawn Purdie, who impressed in camp, for the QB1 spot.
NEW: Wake Forest has named former Auburn and South Carolina QB Robby Ashford as its starter, @ConorONeill_DI reports.https://t.co/FCvwIVAhlu pic.twitter.com/eJdUwTtxgL
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) August 24, 2025
Ashford's path has been anything but straightforward. He signed with Oregon in 2020 but never appeared in a game in the two seasons he spent with the Ducks before transferring to Auburn. He earned the starting job in 2022, throwing for 1,613 yards, seven touchdowns, and seven interceptions while also rushing for 710 yards and seven scores. In 2023, under Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze, he was resigned to backup duties, attempting just 27 passes but still rushing for 217 yards and five touchdowns.
Seeking other opportunities, Ashford transferred to South Carolina for the 2024 season, where he backed up LaNorris Sellers. He made an impact with limited snaps, completing 23 of 32 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 227 yards and two rushing scores on the ground.
Now, at Wake Forest, Ashford has landed in what he's called "a match made in heaven" with offensive coordinator Rob Ezell's system. His dual-threat ability gives the Demon Deacons a dynamic weapon to kick off the Jake Dickert effort era.
Kickoff against Kennesaw State is set for Friday, August29 at 7:00 p.m. ET on ACC Network.