With a new quarterback taking the helm for South Carolina this fall, pass catchers are going to play a pivotal role in how the offense performs. Unfortunately for Shane Beamer’s squad, however, this position group is the biggest question mark on the roster. Multiple NFL departures combined with transfer portal attrition have left the wide receiver position in flux. That being said, the cupboard is not entirely bare for the Gamecocks. Several transfers along with a few talented underclassmen have given Beamer plenty to work with, but he will need several guys to step up. In this South Carolina Gamecocks position preview, we’re diving into the wide receivers and tight ends.
What’s Being Replaced
Before we look at this year’s receivers, we must look at what the Gamecocks have lost. Without question, the biggest blow to this position group has been the departure of Xavier Legette. Legette, who was drafted in the first round by the Carolina Panthers this past spring, led all Carolina receivers in both yards and touchdowns last season. The fifth-year senior was also the leader of the receivers group, setting the tone for everybody else. Replacing Legette’s production as well as his veteran presence will be a tough ask for first-year receivers coach Mike Furrey.
The other major loss to the Gamecock’s receiving corps comes in the form of Antwane Wells Jr. Wells, who was Carolina’s leading receiver in 2022, hit the portal after missing much of last season with injury. The fifth-year senior was expected to be a massive contributor again this season but decided instead to join Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels.
There’s no way to positively spin the loss of both Wells and Legette in the same offseason. Replacing their production is going to be a massive hurdle to overcome, especially when you factor in Carolina is also breaking in a new quarterback. That being said, the cupboard is not entirely bare in Columbia. There are several talented options for Beamer and his staff to consider. The big question is, can any of them step up and be THE guy?
Who’s Up Next?
While the Gamecocks may have lost some talent to the portal, they also picked some up in return. Gage Larvadain is a senior who came in from Miami of Ohio. The Louisiana native put up 675 yards, and six touchdowns last season with the RedHawks. Larvadain is a bit undersized at just five-foot-nine but possesses great speed in the open field.
Another transfer to watch is Ahmari Bruce-Huggins, who spent three seasons at Louisville. Although he was primarily a backup, Bruce-Huggins did manage to compile 1,118 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns over his three seasons as a Cardinal. Another option with great speed, and big play potential.
Lastly, Carolina picked up Jared Brown from Coastal Carolina. Brown brings the most overall production to the Gamecocks, with 1973 total yards and 13 total touchdowns over three years. Brown also doubles as a rushing threat with 400 yards on the ground for the Chanticleers in two seasons.
Along with the transfer portal additions, Carolina also has a couple of highly touted sophomores who figure to be in the mix.
Nyck Harbor is a former five-star recruit, and the number one ranked athlete in the class of 2023 per 247Sports. The D.C. native is as primed as anybody to slide into that breakout role, as he probably possesses more physical talent than anybody on the entire roster. Tyshawn Russell is another promising sophomore to watch, as he possesses a potent combination of size and speed.
While neither received much playing time last season, both have been showing out over spring and fall camp. If they can find a way to show consistency, it will be very hard to keep either off the field.
What About the Tight Ends?
The Gamecocks return starter Joshua Simon, who is entering his second and final season with Carolina. In his first year with the Gamecocks, Simon recorded 256 yards and two touchdowns. While these stats may seem meager, Simon also possesses solid blocking and a good understanding of the system.
Carolina also brought on Ball State transfer Brady Hunt. The redshirt junior missed all of last season with an ankle injury but was an all-MAC conference selection in 2022. Redshirt junior Nick Elksnis also returns, although he has never played or recorded a snap in his college career.
Final Rundown
There is no sugarcoating it, South Carolina’s receiving corps is without question the biggest concern for this team. When you have virtually zero returning production it’s hard to view it any other way. There is tons of talent for sure, but relying solely on transfers and inexperienced underclassmen is a less-than-ideal situation. It also doesn’t help that Carolina is having to break in a new quarterback as well.
For the Gamecocks to find success this season, they need several guys to step up and fast. If players like Nyck Harbor and James Brown can play up to their potential though, then we could see a young offense flourish.
