Despite finishing 4-8 last season, the South Carolina Gamecocks have several talented players throughout the 2026 roster. And college football's award makers are recognizing just that, putting several big-name guys on watchlists for their respective hardware.
Of course, the Gamecock players' focus will solely be on winning games this season. But college football is a sport where good individual performances by players can mean the differences between wins and losses. These major awards help reward players who do just that.
Of course, the preseason watchlists that awards release ahead of the season get narrowed down once the actual season starts progressing. But it's nice to see so many of head coach Shane Beamer's players get recognized before the season even kicks off.
With that in mind, let's take a look at all the Gamecocks that have been placed on preseason award watch lists.
Maxwell Award, the Collegiate Football Player of the Year
- LaNorris Sellers, quarterback
Bronko Nagurski Trophy, the National Defensive Player of the Year
- Dylan Stewart, EDGE
Paul Hornung Award, Most Versatile Player
- Vicari Swain, cornerback/return specialist
Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, most impactful leaders in community service
- Nyck Harbor, receiver
Lombardi Award, the top college football lineman/linebacker
- Dylan Stewart, EDGE
Walter Camp Player of the Year
- LaNorris Sellers, quarterback
- Dylan Stewart, EDGE
Doak Walker Award, Nation's Top Running Back
- Matt Fuller
Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Nation's Top Upperclassman Quarterback
- LaNorris Sellers
Chuck Bednarik Award, Top Defensive Player
- Dylan Stewart, EDGE
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Manning Award, Top Quarterback (includes bowl game and CFP performances)
- LaNorris Sellers
Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award, Nation's Outstanding Offensive Player
- Nolan Hay, offensive lineman
Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award
- Darius Gray, offensive lineman
As you can see, South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers and Dylan Stewart are on the bulk of these watchlists, as they are two of the Gamecocks' biggest stars. But it is nice to see some preseason recognition for the likes of Vicari Swain and Matt Fuller, as well. Darius Gray, one of South Carolina's sandout true freshman offensive lineman received some love, as well.
Congrats to all the Gamecocks who have been nominated!
Of course, once the preseason award watch lists season is over, the real work begins. The Gamecocks will open the 2026 season at home against Kent State on Sept. 5 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
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