Could incoming South Carolina kicker Max Kelley take starting role as true freshman?

Could Incoming South Carolina Kicker Max Kelley Take the Starting Role as a True Freshman?

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the South Carolina Gamecocks find themselves in a unique position: the kicker and punter positions are up for grabs. With the graduation of longtime starters Alex Herrera and Kai Kroeger, the team is looking to fill these crucial roles. Among the contenders is incoming freshman Max Kelley, a highly regarded kicker and punter from Gallatin, Tennessee. But can a true freshman step into such a pivotal role?(On3, SI)

Max Kelley’s Background and Skills

Max Kelley joins the Gamecocks as a consensus three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 11 kicker and No. 49 punter nationally by Kohl’s Kicking. His high school career at Gallatin High School was impressive: he connected on 57 of 65 career PATs and 16 of 23 field goals, including a career-long 51-yard field goal in 2024. Additionally, he averaged 38.1 yards per punt in 2023. His performances at various kicking camps further solidified his reputation; at the 2024 National Scholarship Camp, he scored 28 out of 36 on field goals and showcased his leg strength with impressive kickoff and punting scores. Kelley also demonstrated his prowess at the Underclassman Challenge, earning a significant kickoff score and solid punting marks. (On3, Garnet and Cocky, SI, Kohl’s Professional Camps)

The Current Landscape at South Carolina

Special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to replace their starters. He noted that while the team did not bring in a transfer kicker, they have several internal options, including Kelley. However, he acknowledged the challenges of relying on unproven talent in such critical positions. (On3)

Redshirt freshman Mason Love appears to be the frontrunner for the punter position, having served as a backup punter and placekicker as a true freshman in 2024. However, Love has not yet taken on a starting role, and his experience is limited. The kicker position remains more open, with Kelley and walk-ons William Joyce and Peyton Argent competing for the spot. Joyce has some experience as a holder, but none of the candidates have significant game experience. (On3, On3)

The Case for Kelley as a True Freshman Starter

Kelley’s impressive high school statistics and performances at kicking camps suggest he possesses the technical skills required for collegiate football. His ability to consistently make field goals, handle kickoffs, and punt with distance and hang time indicates a well-rounded skill set. Moreover, his father’s background as a former All-American kicker at Liberty provides Kelley with a strong foundation and understanding of the demands of the position. (Garnet and Cocky)

The absence of a clear veteran leader in the kicker position at South Carolina further opens the door for Kelley. While Love has experience, he has not yet proven himself as a starter. This lack of established leadership may allow Kelley to step in and make an immediate impact, provided he adapts quickly to the collegiate environment.

Challenges and Considerations

Transitioning from high school to college football is a significant leap, especially for specialists. The pressure of performing in front of larger crowds, handling more intense competition, and adjusting to the speed of the game can be daunting. While Kelley’s high school performances were stellar, the college game presents new challenges that he must overcome.

Additionally, the coaching staff’s confidence in their internal candidates means that Kelley will face competition not only from Love but also from walk-ons Joyce and Argent. Establishing himself as the top choice will require Kelley to demonstrate consistency, mental toughness, and the ability to perform under pressure.(On3)

While it is uncommon for true freshmen to assume starting roles in specialized positions like kicker, Max Kelley’s exceptional talent and the current landscape at South Carolina make it a possibility. His technical skills, combined with the lack of an established veteran kicker, provide him with an opportunity to earn the starting spot. However, the challenges of transitioning to college football and the competition within the team mean that Kelley must prove himself during practices and any opportunities he receives. If he can adapt quickly and perform consistently, Max Kelley has the potential to be the Gamecocks’ starting kicker as a true freshman.