South Carolina Gamecocks Ranked 13th in Preseason Poll

Columbia, South Carolina, August 17, 2025

News Summary

The South Carolina Gamecocks have made a substantial comeback, ranking 13th in the Associated Press Preseason Top 25 poll for the 2025 college football season. This is their first appearance in the AP Preseason Poll since 2014, indicating strong momentum following a successful 2024 season. They are preparing for a challenging schedule, facing several ranked opponents, and aim for their first college football playoff appearance. Additionally, the Gamecocks are enhancing their athletic development through a new partnership with Blanchard Machinery.

Columbia, South Carolina — The South Carolina Gamecocks have been ranked 13th in the Associated Press Preseason Top 25 poll for the 2025 college football season, marking a significant return to ranking prominence for the team. This is the first time the Gamecocks have appeared in the AP Preseason Poll since 2014 when they held the 9th position. The Gamecocks concluded the 2024 season with an impressive 9-4 record, wrapping up their campaign by securing victories in their last six regular-season games and finishing 19th in both the AP and Coaches’ polls.

The Gamecocks will face robust competition in their 2025 schedule, which includes six teams currently ranked in the preseason AP Poll: Clemson (4th), Alabama (8th), LSU (9th), Oklahoma (18th), Texas A&M (19th), and Ole Miss (21st). The Gamecocks will commence their season against Virginia Tech at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on August 31, with kickoff scheduled for 3 PM. This opening game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

Looking ahead, the Gamecocks aim for their inaugural appearance in the college football playoffs this season. However, the team faces significant player losses due to the NFL draft, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for the coaching staff to develop new talent.

In addition to their on-field activities, the Gamecocks have entered into a strategic partnership with Blanchard Machinery. This partnership is designed to bolster community support and enhance athletic development at the university. As part of this collaboration, the Blanchard logo will be prominently displayed on the playing surface at Williams-Brice Stadium beginning with the home opener in 2025. Furthermore, renovations funded by this partnership will improve the West and East sides of the stadium and introduce new premium seating options, with completion expected prior to the 2027 football season.

Blanchard Machinery will also contribute to the Gamecocks’ Student-Athlete Development Program, providing internships and career development workshops aimed at enriching the lives of student-athletes beyond the field.

In summary, the South Carolina Gamecocks are preparing for a challenging yet promising 2025 season, fortified by their preseason ranking and a new partnership that emphasizes community and player development.

Top 25 Rankings Overview

• 1. Texas
• 2. Penn State
• 3. Ohio State
• 4. Clemson
• 5. Georgia
• 6. Notre Dame
• 7. Oregon
• 8. Alabama
• 9. LSU
• 10. Miami
• 11. Arizona State
• 12. Illinois
• 13. South Carolina

2025 Game Schedule Highlights

The Gamecocks will face several ranked opponents throughout the season, ensuring a competitive and exciting schedule.

FAQ