South Carolina signs Ethan Sanchez, a kicker with ice in his veins on game-winners

In college football in 2026, it's never too late to add players to your roster that can help you get an edge, even days away from kickoff. That's exactly what South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer did, in signing a kicker that can hopefully bolster the Gamecocks at the position. 

The Gamecocks have added former Houston standout placekicker Ethan Sanchez to their 2026 roster. The former Cougar was a Lou Groza finalist last season, and made 21 of his 26 field goals last season, including all of his extra-point attempts. He made some clutch kicks in game-winning situations, as well. Last year for Houston, he kicked a 41-yarder to defeat Arizona in the final seconds:

He had a game-winning kick in over time against Oregon State, as well:

Sanchez was named a fourth-team All-Big 12 kicker by Phil Steele last season. Prior to arriving at Houston, he played three seasons at Old Dominion. He actually got a first-hand look at Williams-Brice Stadium with the Monarchs, as he was ODU's starter during the 2024 home opener against the Gamecocks.  

At Old Dominion, he made 35-of-46 field goal attempts. He had some clutch moments there, as well:

Sanchez has been one of dozens of college athletes that have earned an additional year of eligibility stemming from lawsuits filed across the country. He was named eligible from a temporary restraining order via a Dallas-based judge last week. 

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After Sanchez's Houston career ended, he did attend rookie minicamp with the San Francisco 49ers in April. But since he did not make an NFL roster, he has not signed with a professional team. Sanchez is actually the second late-addition that Coach Beamer has made, as the Gamecocks also added former App State defensive back Ethan Johnson. 

The timing of Sanchez's addition also comes at just the right time. Beamer told reporters earlier this week there has been no separation in the battle for South Carolina's starting kicker position. South Carolina kickers Max Kelley, Upton Bellefant and Malik Orsan have been competing for the No. 1 spot, but neither have emerged as the clear-cut starter.   

The SEC and NCAA have been embroiled in an eligibility fight stemming from LSU head coach Lane Kiffin signing former NFL players in tight end Dae'Quan Wright and defensive end Zxavian Harris. A judge in Baton Rouge recently ruled that they are eligible to play, but it's unclear if both guys will suit up for the Tigers.  

Given that Sanchez was signed to the roster just a couple days before kickoff against Kent State, it's unclear if Sanchez will actually see game reps on Saturday. 

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