COLUMBIA — When Alabama visits South Carolina this weekend, fans will see a clash between two quarterbacks heading in very different directions. On one sideline stands Ty Simpson, the Crimson Tide’s Heisman frontrunner. On the other, LaNorris Sellers, the Gamecocks’ second-year starter who’s endured a frustrating sophomore slump.
Ty Simpson: Alabama’s Heisman Hope
Simpson has been the driving force behind Alabama’s 6-1 record and No. 4 national ranking, leading an explosive offense that has rebounded from an early stumble. Since the Tide’s 31-17 loss to Florida State, Simpson has been nearly flawless, guiding Alabama to a six-game win streak while the team averages 38.2 points per game.
The redshirt sophomore ranks ninth nationally in passing yards (1,931) and fifth in touchdowns (18) with only three total turnovers all year — one interception and two lost fumbles.
Even with Alabama’s run game struggling (125.6 yards per game, 103rd in FBS), Simpson has carried the load through the air. The Tide now rank 12th nationally and second in the SEC with 297.1 passing yards per game.
He’s also helped revive wide receiver Germie Bernard’s production. After posting just two touchdowns and 63.9 yards per game last season under Jalen Milroe, Bernard has already topped those marks — averaging 77.6 yards per game and six touchdowns, with two 100-yard performances against Florida State and Tennessee.
LaNorris Sellers: Searching for Consistency
For LaNorris Sellers, the 2025 campaign has been much tougher. A year after leading South Carolina to a 9-4 record, the Gamecocks now sit at 3-4, with the offense struggling to find rhythm.
Sellers has thrown for 1,134 yards, five touchdowns, and four turnovers (two interceptions, two fumbles) while facing constant pressure. He’s the third-most sacked quarterback in the FBS at 3.6 sacks per game and second in the SEC with 25 total sacks.
The lack of protection has been compounded by a stagnant run game — just 106.6 rushing yards per game, ranking 121st nationally.
Sellers has also dealt with injuries, including a head issue that forced him out of the Vanderbilt game, a 31-7 loss. He rebounded with his best outing against Missouri, throwing for 302 yards and two touchdowns in a 29-20 defeat. But over the next three games, his production dipped again — only one touchdown and fewer than 150 passing yards each week.
Two Quarterbacks, Two Directions
Saturday’s showdown at Williams-Brice Stadium will spotlight two quarterbacks on opposite trajectories — Simpson pushing for the Heisman Trophy and another Alabama title run, while Sellers aims to steady the Gamecocks and deliver a statement win against one of the nation’s elite programs.
