South Carolina’s football program will look to build on a successful 2022 campaign, and they will do so with a familiar face at the center.
Spencer Rattler, newcomer to the front of the Gamecocks to an eight-win seasonannounced Tuesday that he will return to Columbia for his senior year.
Spencer Rattler of the South Carolina Gamecocks celebrates a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers at Memorial Stadium on November 26, 2022 in Clemson, South Carolina.
(Eakin Howard/Getty Images)
There has been some debate in recent weeks as to whether Rattler should enter the NFL Draft after just one season in South Carolina.
AIR FORCE SOCCER PLAYER HUNTER BROWN DEAD AT 21
Rattler ended the debate Tuesday night.
His announcement should mean a preseason top-25 berth for South Carolina as head coach Shane Beamer enters its third season.
Beamer received a raise last week of nearly $4 million per season and his contract has been extended through 2027, according to ESPN.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
The Gamecocks finished the 2022 season strongly, finishing 23rd in the AP Poll.
Beamer and Rattler defeated three of the top 25 teams, including number 5 Tennessee at home. The Gamecocks scored 63 points against the Vols, knocking Tennessee out of the college football playoff picture.
South Carolina Gamecocks’ Spencer Rattler looks to pass against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl at TIAA Bank Field on December 30, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida.
(James Gilbert/Getty Images)
then south carolina knocked down No. 8 Clemson on the road, 31-30, before losing to Notre Dame in their bowl game.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Rattler’s announcement comes on the heels of Antwane Wells’ decision to return for another year at Columbia.
South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler celebrates after scoring a touchdown against Notre Dame during the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on December 30, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida.
(James Gilbert/Getty Images)
Wells was South Carolina’s top receiver in 2022, catching 68 passes for 928 yards and six touchdowns.
Rattler transferred from Oklahoma after the 2021 season and passed for 3,026 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.