Jake Bentley: From Gamecock quarterback to head coach at Nation Ford High School

Jake Bentley, a former standout quarterback for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has recently been appointed as the head football coach at Nation Ford High School in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

South Carolina v North Carolina
South Carolina v North Carolina | Streeter Lecka/GettyImages

Bentley, born on November 23, 1997, in Duncan, South Carolina, showcased his athletic prowess early on at James F. Byrnes High School. He further honed his skills at the collegiate level, playing for the South Carolina Gamecocks from 2016 to 2019, followed by stints with the Utah Utes in 2020 and the South Alabama Jaguars in 2021. Throughout his college career, Bentley amassed impressive statistics, including a standout season in 2018 with the Gamecocks, where he threw for 3,171 yards and 27 touchdowns.

Transitioning into coaching, Bentley began as a graduate assistant at Florida Atlantic University in 2022, working under head coach Willie Taggart. He then served as the quarterbacks coach at the University of North Alabama in 2023. In May 2024, Bentley returned to South Carolina, joining Rock Hill High School as the quarterbacks coach, co-offensive coordinator, and passing game coordinator.

His appointment at Nation Ford High School marks his first head coaching position. The school, established in 2007, has had only two previous head coaches, making Bentley’s selection a significant milestone. His primary objective will be to revitalize the Falcons’ football program, aiming to enhance their competitiveness within the state.

Bentley’s deep-rooted connections to South Carolina, combined with his extensive playing and coaching experience, position him as a promising leader for Nation Ford’s football team. His journey from a celebrated collegiate athlete to a dedicated coach reflects his unwavering commitment to the sport and his aspiration to mentor the next generation of football players.

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