Connor Shaw: A True Gamecock Legend— From Heart Attack to SEC LEGEND; South Carolina’s Winningest QB Gets the Ultimate Honor”

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Former South Carolina quarterback Connor Shaw has been named the Gamecocks’ representative in the 2025 Southeastern Conference Football Legends Class, presented by T-Mobile, the league announced on Wednesday.

The 2025 SEC Football Legends Class features 16 standout players and coaches who shaped the conference’s storied football history. This year’s honorees include a Heisman Trophy winner, national champions, All-Americans, Academic All-Americans, and NFL veterans. Collectively, they represent programs that have earned SEC titles, Super Bowl championships, and inductions into various state and collegiate halls of fame.

Connor Shaw: A True Gamecock Legend

Shaw, a native of Flowery Branch, Georgia, remains the winningest quarterback in South Carolina history. During his Gamecock career from 2010 to 2013, Shaw compiled an incredible 27-5 record as a starter, including a perfect 17-0 mark at Williams-Brice Stadium.

He ranks among the top 10 in eight major statistical categories at USC, sitting first in total touchdowns responsible for and second in career passing touchdowns. Known for his accuracy, poise, and toughness, Shaw produced some of South Carolina’s most unforgettable moments.

In 2012, he famously completed 20 consecutive passes in a dominant win over Missouri, and a year later, he led a stunning comeback victory over No. 5 Missouri — despite battling injury. Shaw capped off his career in spectacular fashion at the Capital One Bowl, accounting for five total touchdowns and earning MVP honors in his final collegiate game.

Following his time at South Carolina, Shaw spent brief stints in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears before injuries cut his playing career short. He later returned to Columbia, serving in various staff and advisory roles within the Gamecock football program. Today, he continues to contribute as a consultant while maintaining close ties with his alma mater.

Honoring the Legends

The 2025 SEC Football Legends will be celebrated during the SEC “Weekend of Champions” in Atlanta, Georgia, on December 5–6. The festivities include the SEC Legends Celebration at the College Football Hall of Fame on Friday, December 5, followed by an on-field recognition during the SEC Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, December 6.

Full 2025 SEC Football Legends Class

  • Alabama – C.J. Mosley, LB (2010–13)
  • Arkansas – Kenoy Kennedy, S (1996–99)
  • Auburn – Cam Newton, QB (2010)
  • Florida – Brandon Spikes, LB (2006–09)
  • Georgia – Randy Johnson, OG (1973–75)
  • Kentucky – Jacob Tamme, TE (2004–07)
  • LSU – Tyrann Mathieu, CB (2010–11)
  • Ole Miss – William “Bill” Smith, P (1983–86)
  • Mississippi State – Gabe Jackson, OG (2009–13)
  • Missouri – Mitch Morse, OL (2010–14)
  • Oklahoma – Lucious Selmon, NG (1970–73)
  • South Carolina – Connor Shaw, QB (2010–13)
  • Tennessee – Kevin Burnett, LB (2000–04)
  • Texas – Derrick Johnson, LB (2001–04)
  • Texas A&M – R.C. Slocum, HC (1989–2002)
  • Vanderbilt – Jordan Matthews, WR (2010–13)

Shaw’s inclusion in this prestigious class underscores his lasting impact on South Carolina football and his status as one of the most beloved Gamecocks of all time.

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