South Carolina Football: Gamecock quarterback commitment Dante Reno is the real deal

South Carolina football commitment Dante Reno is one of the most beloved Gamecocks in recent memory, and he hasn’t even stepped on campus yet.

The 4-star quarterback who plays his high school ball at Cheshire Academy in Massachusetts has endeared himself to fans with his tremendous efforts in recruiting and team-building, taking responsibility as the team’s leader in the class of 2024. His strong social media presence and infectious personality have made him very visible to the South Carolina football fanbase, as well.

But Dante Reno is much more than just a recruiter and rah-rah, team-first guy. Dante Reno is a really good football player. The 4-star QB has already participated in the Elite 11 and stood out for his quick release throwing the football. He’s also an Under Armour All-American.

On Friday, Reno received his jersey for the Under Armour All-American game.

As a player, Reno is considered a pocket passer, but he has enough athleticism to make some things happen as evidenced by the fact that he leads his high school team in rushing touchdowns.

His best on-field trait, however, is his lightning-quick release. A strong arm is necessary at the position (something Reno has), but a long wind-up or funky mechanics can give defenses a head start on jumping passes. But when a quarterback can put some zip on the ball with minimal time and movement, it is something special.

The South Carolina football program appears to be set at the quarterback position for years to come. Once starting quarterback Spencer Rattler enters the NFL after this season, current true freshman LaNorris Sellers, current redshirt freshman Tanner Bailey, and incoming freshman Reno will compete with redshirt senior Luke Doty for the starting job.

Beyond next season, class of 2026 4-star Landon Duckworth is committed to the South Carolina football program, and 4-star ’25 QB Ryan Montgomery is strongly considering the Gamecocks and has put USC in his top-5.

The most important position on the field will be in good hands for the foreseeable future. Reno is a high-character young man and a relentless worker, so even if he does not win the starting job right away, he is the type of player who can still benefit the Gamecock program with his leadership and effort level.

Gamecock Nation is lucky to have Dante Reno in the fold in next year’s recruiting class, and the quarterback position room will benefit from his arrival on campus before next season.

Reno is joined as a high school All-American by several fellow ’24 Gamecock commitments:

Dylan Stewart (5-star EDGE, Under Armour All-American), Fred “JayR” Johnson (4-star linebacker, All-American Bowl), Josiah Thompson (5-star offensive tackle, All-American Bowl), Kam Pringle (4-star offensive tackle, Under Armour All-American), Wendell Gregory (4-star linebacker/EDGE, Under Armour All-American), and Mason Love (5-star kicker/punter, Under Armour All-American).