Gamecocks in Crisis? 4-Star QB Landon Duckworth Reveals SHOCKING Recruitment Twist — Can South Carolina Save Their Dynasty Before FSU, Georgia Steal Him?

**Landon Duckworth’s Recruitment Revisited: Where South Carolina Stands Amid QB’s Final Decision**

Four-star Alabama quarterback **Landon Duckworth**, once a longtime South Carolina commit, finds himself at a pivotal crossroads as his recruitment enters its final stretch. The Jackson, AL, standout decommitted from the Gamecocks in June 2023, just before a wave of changes reshaped the program: head coach **Shane Beamer** inked a contract extension, QB **LaNorris Sellers** emerged as a breakout talent, and offensive coordinator **Dowell Loggains** departed for a new role.

At the Under Armour Next Series in Atlanta, Duckworth opened up about his evolving relationship with South Carolina and the factors steering his decision:

**On Coaching Changes & Relationships**
– *“Coach Loggains left, but Coach Beamer’s still there, so it’s all good. We’ve got a strong connection, and I’ve known Coach [Mike] Shula for a while too. He visited my school, met my mom in Mobile for dinner — that meant a lot.”*

**Offensive Vision Under Mike Shula**
– *“It depends. Coach Shula worked with Cam Newton for years, and his dad [Don Shula] was legendary. They’re leaning on him to build something special here.”*

**South Carolina’s Relentless Pursuit**
– *“We talk constantly — me, Coach Shula, Coach Beamer, even the new staff. The message hasn’t changed: They want me bad. They make sure I know it every time we connect.”*

**Top Contenders Beyond Columbia**
While the Gamecocks push hard, Duckworth confirmed four programs are prioritizing him:
1. **Florida State**
2. **Missouri** (*“I like Mizzou”*)
3. **North Carolina**
4. **Georgia**

**Why This Matters**
Duckworth’s arm talent and mobility (4,200+ total yards, 50 TDs as a junior) make him a coveted asset. South Carolina’s QB room features Sellers and 2024 signee **Dante Reno**, but landing Duckworth would solidify long-term depth. With Shula’s NFL pedigree and Beamer’s renewed commitment, the Gamecocks hope their personal touch outweighs heavyweight competition.

**What’s Next**
Duckworth plans official visits this summer ahead of a fall decision. For South Carolina, retaining his trust amid staff turnover — and fending off SEC rivals — will define their 2025 recruiting class.