Speculation Season Sparks Cam Newton Comparisons for South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers
The college football offseason is in full swing following Ohio State’s thrilling national championship win over Notre Dame. With the 2025 season officially in the books, fans and analysts alike have turned their attention to the future, diving into quarterback projections and comparisons that could shape next season’s narrative.
One name drawing significant buzz is South Carolina Gamecocks’ quarterback LaNorris Sellers, with some, including On3’s J.D. Pickell, comparing the redshirt freshman to none other than Auburn legend Cam Newton.
At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, Sellers mirrors Newton’s physical profile—Newton himself stood at 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds during his college days. However, the comparisons go beyond size, focusing on Sellers’ unique combination of athleticism and playmaking ability.
“This dude is not Cam Newton, but he gets comped to Cam Newton a lot,” said Pickell. “He is the closest thing when it comes to physical gifts that we’ve seen since Cam Newton. That sounds hyperbolic, but I really don’t think it’s that much of a stretch.”
In 2024, Sellers delivered a standout campaign for South Carolina, throwing for 2,534 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, while adding 674 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat performance propelled the Gamecocks to a 9-4 record and a No. 14 finish in the AP Top 25.
It’s not just Sellers’ stats that evoke Newton comparisons; it’s his ability to extend plays and create magic when things break down. Armed with a strong arm and the instincts to keep drives alive with his legs, Sellers is a dynamic force on the field—one who keeps fans and opponents on edge every time he touches the ball.
Heading into his redshirt sophomore season, the hype surrounding Sellers is palpable. “Does he have a Cam Newton-type season next year where he goes and wins the Heisman Trophy? I don’t know, but I think it’s possible,” Pickell added. “I think he’s that good.”
Currently listed at +1800 odds to win the 2026 Heisman Trophy (tied for fifth-best according to FanDuel Sportsbook), Sellers has positioned himself as one of college football’s most intriguing talents. His trajectory mirrors that of Newton, who claimed the Heisman during his third year of college football as a junior at Auburn.
If Sellers can replicate that path, South Carolina fans may be witnessing the rise of their own version of “Superman.” With his immense talent and a year of experience under his belt, the sky appears to be the limit for Sellers and the Gamecocks in 2025.
