South Carolina Football: Five Players With the Most to Prove in 2020

RYAN HILINSKI

Hilinski started the final 11 games of the year, throwing for over 2,300 yards as a true freshman in the SEC.  But he’d be the first to tell you that he’s got more to prove in 2020.

Hilinski was inserted into the lineup following an early season foot injury of starter Jake Bentley.  He’d go on to show some real promise in games versus Alabama and Georgia, but also dealt with inconsistency.

In a game against Missouri, he turned the ball over twice, both of which were returned for Tiger touchdowns.  The rising sophomore also threw a pick six in a five-point loss to Appalachian State, which ended a 180-pass streak of attempts without an interception.

Hilinski eclipsed the 300-yard mark three times, but also failed to reach 200 yards on six occasions.  His five interceptions thrown was certainly a positive and he’ll try to keep turnover totals low again next year, but some of that was the result of play-calling that rarely had him making downfield throws.  He’ll need to clean up his up-and-down play in order for the Gamecock offense to be more productive in 2020.

The California native also has some more competition in the quarterback room, as Collin Hill has transferred from Colorado State.  He’s spent the last four seasons in Mike Bobo’s offensive system and may have a leg up with his familiarity with the playbook.

Hilinksi will need to prove to his new offensive coordinator that he belongs in the starting role and show that he’s progressed as he enters year two in Columbia.