South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler has dealt with plenty of adversity throughout his college career, but he's thankful for what he's gained from it.
"I see it as a blessing," Rattler said, per ESPN's Pete Thamel. "God has me going through this for a reason. That's how I look at it, truly. And there can't be success without adversity. So being able to go through that adversity and come out on the other end, it's a great feeling."
The 6-foot-1 signal-caller began his collegiate career at Oklahoma as a highly touted recruit and was once projected as a first-round NFL talent and Heisman candidate. However, he was benched in 2021 for reigning Heisman winner Caleb Williams and then transferred to South Carolina.
Rattler struggled early in his time with the Gamecocks, throwing eight interceptions in the team's first six games. He rebounded as the season progressed and finished with 3,026 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
"We left something on the table last year," Rattler said. "Toward the end of the season, November on, we scratched the surface (and) showed what we can do."
South Carolina pulled off a pair of late-season upsets over Clemson and Tennessee, thanks in large part to Rattler. The quarterback threw for a combined 798 yards and eight touchdowns in those two contests, which left him feeling "unstoppable." The Volunteers ultimately missed the College Football Playoff with an 11-2 record.
Though Rattler hopes to challenge for both first-round NFL draft status and Heisman consideration, he said "all the personal success will come" if the Gamecocks can stockpile victories.
Rattler has thrown for 7,621 yards, 58 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions in 36 career appearances with Oklahoma and South Carolina.
