South Carolina’s quarterback room looks strong heading into the 2025 season with LaNorris Sellers, Air Noland, and Cutter Woods, but head coach Shane Beamer isn’t resting on his laurels. Last week, Beamer visited four-star FSU commit Brady Smigiel in person, extending an offer, according to The State.
Smigiel, a 2026 prospect, started reconsidering his commitment to Florida State after Gus Malzahn was appointed offensive coordinator. His father, Joe Smigiel, the head coach at Newbury Park High School, noted that the hiring of Mike Shula as South Carolina’s offensive coordinator was a major factor in their interest.
“We became interested because of Mike Shula’s hire. He’s a pro-style coach, and there are strong pro elements in their offense. That’s where things began. The three of them watched film together and were on board with it,” Joe Smigiel explained.
He also revealed that Brady plans to visit Washington, UCLA, Michigan, and Michigan State in the spring to explore other options.
“If he’s making a trip, it’s serious,” Joe Smigiel said. “Those schools are possibilities, but nothing is finalized yet.”
Despite the competition, the Gamecocks might have an advantage in landing Smigiel, thanks to Beamer’s leadership.
“As a head coach, we emphasize accountability, culture, and commitment. It’s tough to maintain that culture in today’s college football,” said Joe Smigiel. “We asked Coach Beamer tough questions, and his responses reminded me of my own coach, Dick Tomey at Arizona. Beamer’s a very impressive coach, and our meeting went really well.”
With Beamer and Shula focused on bringing Smigiel to Columbia, more visits are likely, although Smigiel’s commitment to Florida State still stands for now.
