South Carolina Puts Pressure on Quarterback LaNorris Sellers

Beamer Stresses Competition

South Carolina is sending a clear message to starting quarterback LaNorris Sellers. This week, backup quarterback Cutter Woods received more snaps with the first team offense.

While Sellers remains the starter for Saturday's game, the coaching staff is preparing for a change if his struggles continue. Coach Shane Beamer stressed competition as a major theme for the team this week.

Earlier in the week, Woods took nearly a quarter of the first team reps. Those snaps decreased later in the week, but the pressure on Sellers remains high.

Sellers Struggles in the Passing Game

The Gamecocks are currently 2-2 overall and 0-2 in the SEC. A big reason for their struggles has been the passing game, which ranks ninth in the SEC.

Sellers has completed 62.1 percent of his passes this season. That is the second worst completion rate among SEC starting quarterbacks, ahead of only Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed at 55.4 percent. Sellers has thrown six touchdowns but also has four interceptions, which is the third most in the conference.

This is a major drop from his 2024 form. Last season, Sellers accounted for 25 touchdowns, leading South Carolina to a 9-4 record and putting them in the playoff conversation.

Sellers has run the ball well, averaging 6.8 yards per carry under new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles. South Carolina actually leads the SEC in rushing. However, Briles' offense relies on quick decisions in the passing game, where Sellers has struggled.

Woods Waiting in the Wings

If Sellers continues to struggle against Kentucky, the coaching staff is ready to turn to Woods. The second year player is highly regarded internally and is viewed as the future starter for the program.

Woods has appeared in six games during his career, all in relief. He has completed 17 of 25 passes for 161 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.

What it means for the next game

Kentucky Wildcats at South Carolina Gamecocks (College Football, Sat, 03 Oct): South Carolina Gamecocks win 54%, Kentucky Wildcats win 46%; projected score South Carolina Gamecocks 28, Kentucky Wildcats 25. Our safest pick: South Carolina +7.5.

South Carolina Gamecocks at Florida Gators (College Football, Sat, 10 Oct): Florida Gators win 81%, South Carolina Gamecocks win 19%; projected score Florida Gators 37, South Carolina Gamecocks 21. Our safest pick: Florida -4.5.