Joel Klatt Names Rising SEC Program Poised to Take The Next Step

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Jul 10, 2025 2:00 PM ET

The 2024 College Football Playoff introduced a new 12-team format, expanding the original four-team setup that had been in place since 2014.

This change allowed six teams to participate in the playoff for the first time in their program histories: the SMU Mustangs, Arizona State Sun Devils, Penn State Nittany Lions, Tennessee Volunteers, Indiana Hoosiers and Boise State Broncos.

Now, teams around the country are eager to be part of this expansion. On "The Joel Klatt Show," Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt mentioned that he believes the South Carolina Gamecocks could also make the playoffs.

South Carolina had a solid 9-4 record last season, finishing No. 15 in the final CFP rankings. Klatt is optimistic about their prospects, particularly because he has confidence in their quarterback.

"(I) love LaNorris Sellers," Klatt said. "Breakout star in the second half of last season as South Carolina won their last six in the regular season. He does need to cut back on turnovers. But I think that's going to come with experience... They're going to be quality on defense. They're going to be quality on offense."

Klatt noted that the Gamecocks will need to replace Kyle Kennard, the Nagurski Award winner, on the edge this season. Kennard recorded 11.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss last year. However, he also pointed out that South Carolina boasts one of the best pass rushers in the country in sophomore Dylan Stewart. As a true freshman, Stewart achieved 6.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss last season.

The Fox Sports analyst also mentioned that, like many teams in the SEC, the challenging schedule is a significant factor for the Gamecocks. According to Athlon Sports' Kyle Wood, South Carolina has the seventh easiest schedule in the conference for 2025.

Klatt believes the Gamecocks have a genuine opportunity to start the season 5-0, with the toughest game being on the road against the Missouri Tigers. The latter part of the schedule is more demanding for the team.

The final five weeks of the season will be a true test for Beamer’s squad. After a home game against Alabama, the Gamecocks face back-to-back road games at Ole Miss and Texas A&M, separated by an open week. South Carolina will also finish the regular season with their annual rivalry game against Clemson.

If they can navigate the challenges in the second half of the season, it could be a remarkable year for Beamer and his team.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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