South Carolina football: looking at all the quarterback options
By Jacob Elsey
Could South Carolina football rely on a QB-turned-WR?
Dakereon Joyner arrived to the South Carolina campus following a fantastic high school career that saw him named Mr. South Carolina as a senior. The former four-star recruit began his career in the Gamecocks’ quarterback room, but has since moved to the wide receiver position.
Last year, Joyner saw some action in a reserve role, where he completed 16 of his 28 passing attempts, totaling 168 yards. He helped secure an upset win over a third-ranked Georgia squad in Athens, where he came in in relief of an injured Ryan Hilinski, while also appearing in games versus Charleston Southern, Missouri, and Texas A&M.
Joyner is one of the more athletic players on the team, and has been used as a passer, wideout, and a kick returner. Last season, he scored two touchdowns, one rushing and one receiving, and led the team with seven kick returns and a 23.6 yard average.
That athleticism could be used in the Shane Beamer’s favor as he searches for options under center. Beamer has said it may take getting creative to piece together the South Carolina quarterback room, and putting Joyner back in the role would be as creative as you can get. It would also provide an option on the current roster, rather than having to use a scholarship on a transfer.
"“We’re trying to improve the competition and the depth at every single position that we have on this team. I wish we had unlimited scholarships. We don’t, but we’ll be creative. … It’s got to be the right dynamic if we add to that room.”"
If South Carolina isn’t able to convince Hilinski to return, Joyner could find himself back in an old, familiar role.