South Carolina Riding Hot Streak, Adds Key Transfer Ahead of Citrus Bowl Matchup
The South Carolina Gamecocks, one of the hottest teams in college football to close the 2024 regular season, are gearing up for their Cheez-It Citrus Bowl clash against Illinois on December 31. This showdown presents a chance for the Gamecocks to cap off their remarkable finish to the year and set the stage for a potential College Football Playoff (CFP) run in 2025.
Loaded Roster for 2025?
With many of their top players expected to return, South Carolina is already garnering buzz as a CFP contender for next season. Adding to their momentum, the Gamecocks have been active in the transfer portal, recently landing a commitment from former Alabama and Florida State linebacker Shawn Murphy.
Murphy’s Journey
Murphy was a highly touted recruit in the 2022 class, ranked as the No. 3 player in Virginia, the No. 12 linebacker nationally, and the 142nd overall prospect according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings. Despite his immense potential, Murphy struggled to find consistent playing time during his two seasons at Alabama, recording just five tackles.
Last season, Murphy transferred to Florida State, where he showcased glimpses of his talent with 13 tackles in only four games before an injury sidelined him for the rest of the year.
Fresh Start at South Carolina
Now heading to Columbia, Murphy brings two seasons of eligibility with him, and he may even qualify for a third year if he applies for a medical redshirt. His addition bolsters South Carolina’s linebacker corps, which could be crucial for the team’s aspirations in 2025.
With the Gamecocks firing on all cylinders and continuing to build through both returning talent and the transfer portal, they’re setting up to make a big splash not just in the Citrus Bowl, but in college football’s elite ranks next season.
