It has been public knowledge for weeks that South Carolina quarterback Brandon McIlwain was set to leave the program via transfer. In fact, there was plenty of speculation as to why the former top-flight prospect made that decision and even an inkling as to where he might end up to continue his college career.
Now, we have confirmation from McIlwain himself that his next stop will be with the California Golden Bears.
Given the way that McIlwain announced his decision, it seems at least possible, if not likely, that he will also be playing baseball for Cal. Still, the former No. 2 dual-threat quarterback prospect in the country is a much bigger name on the gridiron and that is where his decision will be felt to the highest degree.
McIlwain served as South Carolina's starting quarterback for a portion of the 2016 season, but he quickly lost the job to Jake Bentley and that appeared to be the depth chart moving forward. During his brief stint in Columbia, McIlwain threw for 600 yards and two touchdowns while compiling 127 yards on the ground and it was easy to see the talent that made him an intriguing recruit.
Because the Gamecocks were bracing for this, the impact could be mitigated to a degree and Cal must wait for McIlwain to become eligible after sitting out the 2017 season as a result of NCAA rules. When the dust settles, we will see how the youngster fares in Berkeley.
