Gamecocks Stun Fans! Ohio State QB Transfer Air Noland Explains Bold Move to South Carolina
On Dec. 23, former Ohio State quarterback Air Noland made waves by committing to South Carolina, a move that left many scratching their heads. With LaNorris Sellers already cemented as the starting QB, Noland’s decision seemed unexpected—until he explained his reasoning on Thursday.
“The opportunity to play—it’s a play away,” Noland said. “You never know what’s happening when it’s time for football. The opportunity that South Carolina presented is just a great opportunity for me. I feel like Coach Beamer and Coach Shula just know that as well.”
Noland arrives as a redshirt freshman after not taking a snap during the 2024-25 season at Ohio State. But don’t mistake his lack of college experience for a lack of talent.
A former four-star prospect out of Langston Hughes (GA), Noland ranked as the No. 5 quarterback in the 2024 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking—a system that compiles ratings from all major recruiting services.
However, securing playing time in Columbia won’t be easy. Sellers dominated last season, throwing for 2,534 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions. He also showcased his mobility, racking up 674 rushing yards and seven scores on the ground.
Despite the stiff competition, Noland welcomes the challenge.
“It pushes you each and every day. It doesn’t let you be lackadaisical. It makes you a better quarterback,” Noland said. “I feel like competition also brings the best out of you. With a quarterback like LaNorris Sellers, he’s a guy I can push and hopefully compete with and have fun with that.”
Even if Noland doesn’t claim the QB1 spot, he knows he could be one injury away from taking the reins. South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer praised Noland’s fearless mindset.
“Credit to him, because all he wants is an opportunity to compete,” Beamer said ahead of the Citrus Bowl. “I said this to you guys last year: A lot of quarterbacks were interested in South Carolina because of Spencer [Rattler]. They wanted to come here, but they went on to other Power Five schools and became starters because they wouldn’t come here unless I promised them the starting job.”
With Noland now in the mix, the Gamecocks’ QB room just got a lot more interesting—and the battle for South Carolina’s future under center is officially on.
