Dwayne Photo Credit: McLemore dmclemore@thestate.com
South Carolina backup quarterback Cutter Woods received an increased share of first-team reps in practice this week as the Gamecocks prepare for Saturday’s game against Kentucky.
LaNorris Sellers remains the starting quarterback, but the change in practice reps indicates South Carolina is preparing for the possibility of turning to Woods if Sellers continues to struggle. Earlier in the week, Woods took nearly a quarter of the first-team reps before his workload decreased later in the week.
Coach Shane Beamer also emphasized competition to the team, with the message to Sellers that he needs to improve.
Sellers Struggles Through First Four Games
Sellers has completed 62.1% of his passes for 833 yards, six touchdowns and four interceptions through four games. His completion percentage ranks near the bottom of the SEC, while his four interceptions are among the conference’s highest totals.
South Carolina is 2-2 overall and 0-2 in SEC play heading into Saturday’s matchup with Kentucky. The Gamecocks have been effective on the ground, leading the SEC in rushing, with Sellers contributing 244 rushing yards and one touchdown.
The passing game has been a different story. South Carolina ranks ninth in the SEC in passing, putting more pressure on Sellers to improve as the Gamecocks enter another conference matchup.
Cutter Woods Could See First Extended Action
Woods is a second-year quarterback whom South Carolina views as a potential starter for the future. He has appeared in six games during his college career, all in relief, completing 17 of 25 passes for 161 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
The three-star recruit from Westside High School in Anderson, South Carolina, was ranked as the No. 38 quarterback in the 2025 recruiting class by the Rivals Industry Ranking.
His increased practice reps give South Carolina a contingency option if Sellers struggles again. Woods has yet to make a collegiate start, but the Gamecocks have now given him more preparation with the first-team offense ahead of their matchup with Kentucky.
Sellers Trying To Regain 2024 Form
Sellers emerged as an NFL prospect during the 2024 season, when he accounted for 25 total touchdowns while leading South Carolina to a 9-4 record and a spot in the College Football Playoff conversation.
His development since then has been affected by changes around the offense. Sellers has worked under three offensive coordinators in three seasons, while the Gamecocks have also dealt with issues along the offensive line.
Kendal Briles is now in charge of the offense, which has helped South Carolina establish a strong rushing attack. Sellers is averaging 6.8 yards per carry, but his passing numbers have not matched his rushing production.
With South Carolina entering the Kentucky game at 0-2 in SEC play, Sellers will remain the starter for now. However, Woods’ increased first-team work gives the Gamecocks another option if the passing struggles continue.
