Shane Beamer evaluates transfer portal’s ability to create parity in college football
The transfer portal is a double-edged sword. South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer wants to wield the weapon, not be at the mercy of it.
Earlier this week at SEC Spring Meetings, Beamer met with fellow SEC head coaches to discuss league issues. In the past, South Carolina would be a blip on the radar of programs like Georgia and Alabama. However, due to the transfer portal, the playing field is growing level.
“It helped us, obviously. Bringing in transfers, not just Spencer Rattler and some of these impact guys, but guys that provided a lot of depth in positions, as well,” Beamer told the press.
Rattler wasn’t the only transfer who made waves for the Gamecocks, but he certainly had the biggest splash. The 6-foot-1 quarterback joined South Carolina last offseason following two seasons at Oklahoma.
South Carolina propelled the transfer to stardom. Rattler threw for over 4,000 yards and 18 touchdowns, leading the Gamecocks to an 8-5 record. More impressively, Rattler finished the season strong with wins over No. 5 Tennessee and No. 7 Clemson.
While players like Rattler can save a program like South Carolina, they can also be a thorn in its side if they transfer to a competing program. The Gamecocks have already lost 16 players in the portal this offseason. Nonetheless, Beamer isn’t losing sleep over the losses.
“I never want to beg a guy to stay. If he doesn’t want to be a part of our program, then go. I don’t want to twist your arm to stay,” Beamer said. “If a guy has an opportunity to go somewhere else for a better situation, whether it be football or off the field, we wish them well.”
Many players have been wished into Beamer’s arms this spring. South Carolina has added over 10 former three-star recruits, including Arkansas wide receiver Trey Knox. Beamer is excited to use his new roster depth to compete with the perennial SEC powers this fall.
“[The portal] allows other schools in the league to replenish your roster and develop your roster from top to bottom,” Beamer said.