South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart makes list of college football’s top playmakers
South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart makes list of college football’s top playmakers
South Carolina football fans can’t wait to watch Dylan Stewart this fall. The rising sophomore EDGE had an excellent first year in garnet and black. A big season saw him earn On3’s National True Freshman Defensive Player of the Year, Freshman All-American distinction, and multiple SEC Defensive Freshman of the Year honors. Expectations are high for year two (a ChatGPT simulation even thinks Stewart could challenge the Gamecocks’ single-season chat record), both for Stewart and for his impact on the team’s chances of having a special season.
Those high expectations are coming from all directions, including from national college football voices. ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg has joined the long list of pundits high on the dynamic EDGE rusher. This week, Rittenberg published his list of the top non-quarterback playmakers in America, and Stewart made the cut.
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While Rittenberg didn’t necessarily rank his 25 playmakers, he mentioned Stewart fourth. Only Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, Penn State EDGE Dani Dennis-Sutton, and Alabama receiver Ryan Williams showed up earlier.
Said Rittenberg about Stewart, “A five-star recruit, Stewart backed up the hype by earning freshman All-America honors and being a finalist for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year award. He finished third among FBS freshmen in sacks and approached Jadeveon Clowney’s South Carolina freshman marks (eight sacks, 12 tackles for loss).”
Rittenberg also added that an SEC coordinator said Stewart was “the one everybody feared.” That statement came despite Stewart playing alongside three defensive linemen who earned selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
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Stewart and the Gamecocks will match up with five other players on Rittenberg’s list in 2025. Williams (Alabama wide receiver), Le’Veon Moss (Texas A&M running back), TJ Parker (Clemson EDGE), Peter Woods (Clemson defensive tackle), and R Mason Thomas (Oklahoma EDGE) all cracked the top 25. Four of those five (all but Moss) will play in front of a rabid crowd at Williams-Brice Stadium next fall.
Stewart’s first opportunity to hit the field in 2025 will come in a neutral site contest against Virginia Tech. The Gamecocks and Hokies will play at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, August 31st. ESPN will broadcast the 3:00 p.m. contest, while the ESPN app makes it available via streaming.
South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart has emerged as one of college football’s most electrifying and impactful playmakers, captivating fans, analysts, and coaches alike with his exceptional talent, versatility, and game-changing ability. His journey from a highly recruited high school standout to a dominant force on the college gridiron exemplifies dedication, athleticism, and a relentless desire to excel at the highest level. This comprehensive exploration delves into Stewart’s background, skill set, impact on South Carolina’s defense, his ability to influence games, comparisons with other top playmakers, and his potential trajectory in college football and beyond, illustrating why he rightly earns a spot on the list of college football’s top playmakers.
**Early Life and High School Dominance**
Dylan Stewart hails from a background of athletic excellence and high expectations. Growing up in a sports-centric environment, Stewart quickly established himself as a standout athlete in his hometown. At a young age, his raw athleticism, combined with his relentless work ethic, set him apart. During his high school career, Stewart demonstrated an uncanny ability to disrupt offenses, whether rushing the passer, dropping into coverage, or making plays behind the line of scrimmage.
His high school highlights include multiple sacks, forced fumbles, and game-changing plays that drew attention from college recruiters nationwide. Stewart’s combination of size, speed, and instincts made him a coveted recruit, and he ultimately chose South Carolina, eager to showcase his talents at the collegiate level and elevate his profile among the nation’s top defenders.
**Physical Attributes and Skill Set**
At South Carolina, Dylan Stewart’s physical profile is impressive: standing around 6’5” and weighing approximately 250 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for a modern edge rusher or hybrid linebacker. His long reach enables him to bat down passes and extend plays, while his explosive first step allows him to get past offensive linemen quickly. Stewart’s agility and lateral quickness enable him to drop into coverage, rush the passer from different angles, and chase down plays from sideline to sideline.
His pass-rushing arsenal includes a variety of moves—speed rushes, spin moves, swim moves—that keep offensive linemen guessing. Stewart’s football IQ is equally advanced; he recognizes offensive formations and blocking schemes, allowing him to anticipate plays and position himself for maximum impact. His ability to read the quarterback and react swiftly makes him a constant threat to generate sacks and disrupt offensive rhythm.
**Impact on South Carolina’s Defense**
Stewart’s presence on the field significantly elevates South Carolina’s defensive unit. His ability to generate pressure on quarterbacks often leads to hurried throws, incompletions, or turnovers, which can shift momentum in critical moments. He is a disruptive force who commands attention from offensive coordinators, freeing up teammates to make plays elsewhere.
Furthermore, Stewart’s versatility allows the Gamecocks to deploy him in multiple roles—standing up as an outside linebacker, lining up as a traditional defensive end, or dropping into coverage as a hybrid defender. This unpredictability complicates game plans for opponents and provides South Carolina with strategic flexibility.
His leadership qualities also shine through on the field; Stewart’s work ethic and competitive spirit set a standard for teammates, fostering a culture of relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver game-changing plays makes him a cornerstone of South Carolina’s defensive strategy and a player that opponents must game-plan around.
**Game-Changing Plays and Highlights**
Dylan Stewart’s highlight reel reads like a showcase of game-changing moments. His knack for producing sacks at pivotal junctures often swings momentum and energizes his team and fans. Whether it’s a strip-sack that leads to a scoring opportunity or a crucial third-down stop, Stewart’s plays tend to be the catalyst for South Carolina’s success.
One of his most memorable performances came in a high-profile matchup where he recorded multiple sacks, forced a fumble, and altered the offensive game plan of a top-ranked opponent. His relentless pursuit and ability to finish plays make him a nightmare for offenses, and his knack for making impact plays under pressure cements his reputation as a top playmaker.
**Comparisons with Other College Football Playmakers**
In the landscape of college football, playmakers are often defined by their ability to influence multiple facets of the game—pass rushing, run stopping, coverage, and leadership. Stewart’s profile compares favorably with other elite defenders who have made a mark nationally.
For instance, players like Will Anderson Jr. of Alabama or Micah Parsons of Penn State have demonstrated the importance of versatile, disruptive defenders. Stewart’s blend of size, speed, and football intelligence places him in the same echelon. His ability to impact both the pass and run game, combined with his leadership qualities, positions him as a potential future NFL star.
While some playmakers specialize in one area, Stewart’s ability to excel across multiple roles makes him a uniquely valuable asset. His playmaking extends beyond individual stats—his presence on the field creates opportunities for teammates and alters offensive strategies.
**Leadership and Intangibles**
Beyond physical talent, Stewart’s leadership qualities distinguish him as a top playmaker. His work ethic in practice sets a standard for teammates, and his vocal presence on and off the field boosts team morale. Coaches often cite his football IQ, maturity, and competitive drive as key factors in his development as a leader.
His resilience in the face of adversity—bouncing back from setbacks and continuously improving—further exemplifies his mental toughness. These intangible qualities enhance his value as a playmaker, as he consistently elevates his game during critical moments.
**Potential Trajectory and Future Prospects**
Looking ahead, Dylan Stewart’s future in college football appears bright. With continued development, he has the potential to become a household name nationally. His combination of physical tools and mental acuity makes him a candidate for All-American honors and a top NFL Draft prospect.
If he maintains his trajectory, Stewart could lead South Carolina to unprecedented defensive success, help secure conference and national recognition, and serve as a catalyst for his team’s championship aspirations. Moreover, his leadership and work ethic position him to be a role model for aspiring athletes, emphasizing that talent combined with dedication can lead to extraordinary achievement.
**Impact Beyond the Field**
Stewart’s influence extends beyond statistics and game film. As a prominent Black athlete, he embodies the ideals of perseverance, discipline, and community engagement. His presence inspires younger players in South Carolina and across the country, demonstrating that with hard work, they too can reach the highest levels of college football.
His community involvement, leadership roles, and public persona contribute to his status as a top playmaker not just on the field but as a positive role model off it. Such qualities enhance his appeal to NFL scouts, fans, and communities alike.
Dylan Stewart’s rise as one of college football’s top playmakers is a testament to his exceptional talent, relentless work ethic, and strategic understanding of the game. His physical attributes, combined with his football IQ and leadership qualities, make him a disruptive force on South Carolina’s defense and a player capable of changing the course of games. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, Stewart’s impact is poised to grow, making him a cornerstone of South Carolina’s ambitions and a name to watch in college football’s future landscape. His journey exemplifies what it means to be a true playmaker—someone who elevates their team through exceptional skill, unyielding determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
