Ohio State transfer Air Noland committed to the Gamecocks on Monday, per Hayes Fawcett of On 3. While Noland didn’t see meaningful playing time on the Buckeyes, he was a 4-star prospect and the No. 4 overall quarterback in the recruiting class of 2024, per 247Sports’ composite rankings.
Noland isn’t the only quarterback leaving Ohio State via the transfer portal, as backup Devin Brown also said he is heading elsewhere. However, Brown will remain with the Buckeyes through the College Football Playoff, while Noland has turned his attention to his next stop.
The Scarlet and Gray may need to turn to the portal for depth at the position heading into the 2025 campaign, as Will Howard will also be gone next season. That leaves Julian Sayin as the presumed starter, but the team could use some additional depth for insurance.
As for South Carolina, Noland is someone who could be the quarterback of the future if LaNorris Sellers leaves for the 2026 NFL draft down the line.
Noland was buried on Ohio State’s depth chart, but he brings potential as a pocket passer. Fisher Brewer of Sports Illustrated noted he threw for 55 touchdowns in his junior season of high school, which is second in Georgia history.
His presence helps eliminate any questions about depth behind Sellers for the upcoming season and gives the Gamecocks a long-term option with a high ceiling.
“Noland, who was an Elite 11 finalist and finished second in the prestigious quarterback competition, is known for his elite accuracy and poised decision-making,” Brewer wrote. “While he has the ability to move in the pocket, his game is more aligned with a pro-style quarterback. Uniquely, he is a rare left-handed passer, which adds another layer of intrigue to his game.”
Don’t be surprised if Noland is the No. 1 option for South Carolina for the 2026 season.
