Landon Duckworth, a top-6 2026 quarterback, recommitted to South Carolina over Auburn, citing new offensive coordinator Mike Shula’s strong bond and the program’s bright future.
Landon Duckworth, a highly-rated quarterback prospect in the 2026 recruiting class, has reaffirmed his commitment to the University of South Carolina, choosing the Gamecocks over SEC rival Auburn, highlighting the significant role of new offensive coordinator Mike Shula in his decision. Duckworth’s decision underscores the importance of coaching relationships and offensive philosophy in recruiting, as Shula’s reputation and the promising future of South Carolina’s program played pivotal roles. The quarterback’s reaffirmation signals confidence in the direction of the program and its developmental potential under Shula’s leadership, as well as the strong bond formed during their interactions. Duckworth’s return to South Carolina is viewed as a major win for the program, which aims to elevate its offensive scheme and attract more top-tier talent. His commitment also reflects the shifting dynamics of SEC recruiting, where player-coach relationships and program trajectory often influence prospects more than traditional factors. This decision not only boosts South Carolina’s recruiting class but also sets the stage for a competitive future under head coach Shane Beamer, who has been steadily building a promising program. Duckworth’s choice exemplifies how strategic coaching hires and program vision can sway top recruits, especially in a highly competitive conference like the SEC. As the 2026 class continues to develop, Duckworth’s reaffirmed commitment will serve as a cornerstone for South Carolina’s offensive plans and recruiting momentum, demonstrating the program’s rising stature and commitment to developing elite talent for the future.
Landon Duckworth, a highly-ranked quarterback in the 2026 recruiting class, reaffirmed his commitment to South Carolina over Auburn, emphasizing the importance of his bond with new offensive coordinator Mike Shula and the promising future of the program. His decision highlights how strong relationships with coaching staff and a clear vision for offensive development influence top recruits, especially in the competitive SEC landscape. Duckworth’s reaffirmation not only bolsters South Carolina’s recruiting class but also signals confidence in the program’s trajectory under Shane Beamer and Shula’s leadership, positioning the Gamecocks for sustained success and attracting more elite talent in future cycles.
Landon Duckworth, a top-6 quarterback in the 2026 recruiting class, reaffirmed his commitment to South Carolina over Auburn, citing his strong bond with new offensive coordinator Mike Shula and the program’s bright future. His decision underscores the significant influence of coaching relationships and offensive philosophy in recruiting, especially within the competitive SEC environment. Duckworth’s reaffirmation not only strengthens South Carolina’s quarterback position but also signals confidence in the program’s direction under Shane Beamer and Shula’s leadership, positioning the Gamecocks for continued success and higher-profile recruiting in the coming years.
Landon Duckworth, a top-6 quarterback in the 2026 recruiting cycle, reaffirmed his commitment to South Carolina over Auburn, citing his strong bond with new offensive coordinator Mike Shula and the program’s bright future as key factors in his decision. This choice highlights the importance of coaching relationships and offensive scheme in recruiting top-tier talent, especially within the competitive SEC landscape. Duckworth’s reaffirmation not only boosts South Carolina’s recruiting momentum but also underscores confidence in the program’s trajectory under Shane Beamer and Shula’s leadership, positioning the Gamecocks for sustained success and attracting more elite prospects moving forward.
Landon Duckworth, a highly-rated quarterback prospect in the 2026 class, reaffirmed his commitment to South Carolina over Auburn, emphasizing the strong bond he has developed with new offensive coordinator Mike Shula and the promising future of the program. His decision highlights how relationships with coaching staff and a clear vision for offensive development are crucial factors for top recruits in the competitive SEC environment. Duckworth’s reaffirmed commitment not only strengthens South Carolina’s quarterback depth but also signals confidence in the program’s trajectory under Shane Beamer and Shula’s leadership, positioning the Gamecocks for continued success and higher-profile recruiting in the coming years.
