As quarterback Air Noland embarks on his first spring practice with the South Carolina Gamecocks, the highly regarded former four-star recruit has taken the opportunity to clarify his unexpected decision to transfer from Ohio State last December.
Noland’s departure from the Buckeyes raised eyebrows, as it came at a pivotal moment for the program. Head coach Ryan Day’s team had secured a berth in the College Football Playoff and was preparing to face Tennessee in the first round when Noland, then a true freshman, officially entered the transfer portal on Dec. 16. Despite the Buckeyes’ championship aspirations, the young quarterback decided to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 225 pounds, Noland was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school. He signed with Ohio State as the No. 7 quarterback and the No. 62 overall recruit in the 2024 class, according to 247Sports. However, his path to playing time in Columbus was far from clear. The Buckeyes’ quarterback room was loaded with talent, as Noland found himself behind Julian Sayin, Devin Brown, and Will Howard on the depth chart. Howard, in particular, would go on to play a crucial role in leading Ohio State to a national championship.
Despite the possibility of competing for the starting job in the future, Noland opted for a change of scenery, committing to head coach Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks just a week after entering the portal, on Dec. 23.
His choice was particularly intriguing given the presence of South Carolina’s incumbent starter, LaNorris Sellers. The talented quarterback had been named SEC Freshman of the Year after guiding the Gamecocks to a 9-4 record—their best season since their 11-win campaign in 2013. With Sellers returning, Noland is expected to challenge for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart this spring.
On Wednesday, Noland spoke publicly about his decision to leave Ohio State, highlighting a variety of factors that influenced his move. The Fairburn, Georgia, native emphasized the appeal of playing closer to home and expressed excitement about the culture and environment at South Carolina.
“The people here,” Noland said, via The State’s Jordan Kaye. “They really enjoy it here. They really take in Coach Beamer’s words. The offense feeds off Coach (Mike) Shula and stuff like that. Also, just the experience they have here – SEC football. I feel like it’s a great opportunity to showcase my skills and talent.”
A key part of South Carolina’s pitch to Noland was the team’s offensive vision under Mike Shula. The Gamecocks promoted Shula, who previously served as a senior offensive assistant, to offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach following Dowell Loggains’ departure to Appalachian State. Shula brings extensive experience to the role, having previously been the head coach at Alabama and serving in various coaching capacities in the NFL.
Even though Sellers is widely expected to retain the starting job in 2025, Noland remains confident in his ability to make an impact. He recognizes that the unpredictable nature of football means he must always be prepared to step in when needed.
“The opportunity to be a play – it’s a play away,” Noland said. “You never know what’s happening when it’s time for football. The opportunity that South Carolina presented is just a great opportunity for me. I feel like Coach Beamer and Coach Shula just know that as well.”
As Noland begins his new chapter with the Gamecocks, he will have the chance to prove himself during spring practice and in the months leading up to the 2025 season. South Carolina will kick off the new campaign on Aug. 31 with a marquee matchup against Virginia Tech—Shane Beamer’s alma mater—at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Air Noland Reveals Reason Behind His Transfer From Ohio State to South Carolina
