The 5 Most Interesting Roster Questions as South Carolina Opens Spring Practice

As South Carolina prepares to open spring practice for the 2025 football season, there is a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the program. After a promising season in 2024, Gamecock fans are eagerly anticipating the developments that will shape the team’s future. Spring practice presents an opportunity for players to step up, new faces to make an impact, and old faces to solidify their positions. With a mix of returning veterans, talented transfers, and highly touted recruits, the competition across multiple positions is fierce.

While there are numerous storylines to follow, here are the five most interesting roster questions as South Carolina opens spring practice.

1. Who Will Emerge as the Starting Quarterback?

Arguably the most pressing question for South Carolina heading into spring practice is the quarterback battle. The Gamecocks’ signal-caller position has been a revolving door in recent years, with multiple players getting significant playing time. In 2024, Spencer Rattler, a former five-star recruit, returned for his senior season, showing flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency at times. Rattler’s decision to move on after the season has left a hole in the offense, and South Carolina will need a new leader to take the reins.

The battle for the starting quarterback position is expected to be wide open, with multiple candidates vying for the role. Rising sophomore Brady Cook, who showed some flashes of potential in his freshman campaign, will likely be one of the front-runners. His dual-threat ability could make him a dynamic presence under center, and he has spent considerable time with the first-team offense in the offseason, making him a natural contender.

However, Cook’s competition will come from transfer quarterback, Cam Miller, who joined the Gamecocks from an FCS powerhouse. Miller has an impressive resume, having set several records in his previous program. His experience at the collegiate level could give him an edge, and his poise in the pocket will be key in determining whether he can take the job. If Miller can show that he can read defenses and manage the offense with efficiency, he might just win the starting gig.

Freshman prospect Luke Williams could also make a splash in his first spring practice. A high school star known for his strong arm and athleticism, Williams has the potential to develop into a future star for South Carolina. However, it’s likely that his time to shine will come in future years, meaning he will likely enter the competition with a sense of urgency to show coaches he’s ready to play sooner than expected.

The spring practices will be crucial for all these quarterbacks, but ultimately the question remains: Who will step up and prove that they are the best option to lead South Carolina’s offense in 2025?

2. Which Wide Receiver Will Step Up as the Go-To Target?

With the departure of several key players, including Jalen Brooks and Corey Rucker, the wide receiver room at South Carolina is in need of a new leader. The Gamecocks have several talented wideouts, but it’s unclear who will emerge as the top target for the quarterback, whether it’s Cook, Miller, or Williams.

Xzavier Leggett, a senior who has been a consistent contributor over the past few seasons, is a logical candidate to take on the primary role in the offense. His size, speed, and playmaking ability make him a threat on the outside, and if he can stay healthy and become more consistent in his route running, he could have a breakout season. Leggett’s experience gives him an advantage, but he will need to prove he can carry the load as the top target.

However, there are other names to keep an eye on. Ahmarean Brown, a sophomore who has flashed at times in his young career, is expected to be a key contributor. Brown’s speed and agility make him a dangerous deep threat, and with more opportunities this season, he could become one of the most dangerous wideouts in the SEC. Isaiah McElroy, a highly touted transfer from an FCS school, has the potential to make an immediate impact. Known for his ability to make contested catches, McElroy could quickly become a favorite target for whoever is under center.

Freshman recruit Tyrell Jones, a highly ranked prospect, might also factor into the competition. Though he is still adjusting to the college game, his athleticism and route running could give him an edge in the coming years.

With a new quarterback potentially leading the offense, the wide receiver competition will be vital in determining who can form a reliable connection and create explosive plays on a consistent basis.

3. How Will the Running Back Rotation Shake Out?

South Carolina’s running back group has been solid in recent seasons, but the competition is expected to be even more intense this year. With MarShawn Lloyd departing, there is an opportunity for a new star to emerge in the backfield. The Gamecocks have several intriguing options at running back, and the way the rotation shakes out could have a significant impact on the offense.

JuJu McDowell, the junior running back who has seen his role increase over the past two seasons, is one of the top contenders to take over as the lead back. McDowell’s speed and vision make him a dangerous weapon, and he has shown he can be a dynamic playmaker in the passing game as well. However, McDowell is not the only player capable of making an impact.

Lovasea Carroll, a former five-star recruit, has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with injuries during his time at South Carolina. If he can stay healthy, Carroll has the size and speed to be a dominant force in the backfield. His ability to power through defenders while also maintaining breakaway speed makes him a threat in both short-yardage situations and long runs.

Additionally, the Gamecocks have added Freshman recruit Darrion Fleming, a highly regarded recruit known for his physicality and balance. Fleming has the potential to compete for playing time immediately, and his ability to pick up blocks and gain tough yards could earn him a significant role in the offense.

Tight end Jaheim Bell, a versatile player who has spent time both as a tight end and in the backfield, could also be used as a hybrid weapon in the running game. If Bell continues to develop his blocking skills and consistency in the running game, he could contribute more in the ground attack.

Ultimately, the running back battle will be one of the most intriguing position battles this spring, as it will determine how South Carolina’s offense will look going forward. Will they lean on a single back to be the workhorse, or will they utilize a committee approach to keep fresh legs throughout the season?

4. How Will the Offensive Line Perform?

South Carolina’s offensive line has had its ups and downs in recent years, and the 2025 season will be no different. The Gamecocks will need to address a number of questions regarding their offensive line heading into the spring. Can they establish a dominant unit capable of providing consistent protection for the quarterback? Will they be able to open up running lanes for the backfield?

Several key players on the offensive line will be fighting for starting spots, but the most important question is whether the team can improve on the protection they provided last season. With Rattler now gone, whoever steps into the quarterback role will need a reliable front to give them time to make plays. One of the most intriguing battles will be at tackle, with Ja’Keem Green and Tanner Black competing for starting roles. Green’s size and power could make him a dominant force, but Black’s experience and agility might give him an edge.

The interior of the line will be just as important. Jalen Nichols, a senior, is likely to start at guard, but the other guard and center positions remain fluid. Freshman prospect Jordan Davis could push for playing time early, as his athleticism and technique make him a top contender. Another name to watch is Sophomore Josh Murrell, who could solidify himself as a starter in the spring, providing stability and toughness in the interior.

Spring practice will give the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate the offensive line’s progress and determine which group of players will best mesh together to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes.

5. Who Will Step Up on Defense to Fill Leadership Void?

After the departure of several key players on the defensive side of the ball, South Carolina will need a new leader in the locker room and on the field. Zacch Pickens, a standout defensive lineman, has moved on, leaving a void in the defensive front. Additionally, Cam Smith, an exceptional cornerback, is no longer with the team, further shaking up the Gamecocks’ defense.

Despite the losses, South Carolina still has several players who could step up and become the defensive leaders the team needs. Jordan Burch, a former top recruit, is expected to play a crucial role in 2025. Burch has shown flashes of brilliance and has the athleticism and size to dominate both in the run game and as a pass rusher. If he can put everything together this spring, he could be the anchor of the defensive front.

At linebacker, Sherrod Greene and Mohamed Kaba will need to step up as leaders and tackle machines in the middle of the defense. Both have shown impressive instincts in the past, but they will need to elevate their play to fill the leadership gap left by the departure of previous veterans.

In the secondary, Camden Dever, a rising sophomore, is poised to play a larger role this season after a promising freshman campaign. With his ability to cover and play physical football, Dever could emerge as a top cornerback in the SEC and help plug the hole left by Smith’s departure.

The spring practices will allow the coaching staff to see who can take ownership of the defense, whether it’s in terms of on-field performance or leadership in the locker room. The Gamecocks will need these defensive players to step up if they are to contend for another successful season.

South Carolina’s 2025 spring practice is an exciting time for the program, with numerous position battles shaping the future of the team. The five most interesting roster questions—quarterback, wide receiver, running back, offensive line, and defensive leadership—will all play a crucial role in determining the Gamecocks’ success in the coming season. As players compete for starting spots, fans will be watching closely to see which individuals emerge as the cornerstones of the 2025 squad. Regardless of who ultimately takes the lead in these battles, spring practice will set the stage for a promising season of South Carolina football.