On3's JD PicKell ranks Spencer Rattler as No. 5 among 2022 transfer QB's

Quarterbacks hit the transfer portal harder than anyone this offseason, with big names across the country finding new homes. On3’s J.D. PicKell decided to name his top five, with South Carolina‘s Spencer Rattler getting the countdown started at No. 5.

Rattler began his career with Oklahoma as a five-star prospect and was eventually one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. Now, he will be facing off against SEC competition with head coach Shane Beamer. PicKell thinks for the duo to be successful, Rattler needs to minimize his mistakes and keep the ball consistently safe.

“Transferred from Oklahoma to South Carolina,” PicKell started. “Going to be the guy for the Gamecocks this coming season. Tons of ability, right? I mean, not too long ago, he was the projected Heisman winner, projected first overall pick. Things kind of went one way or another in Oklahoma and transfers to South Carolina after being benched against Texas. So much ability.

“Like I mentioned — the thing I am looking at for him — can he make good decisions? Can he keep the ball out of harm’s way? Because truthfully, that is why he didn’t work out at Oklahoma. Too many times making poor decisions. Too many times turning it over. Can he get over the hump in that new offense in a fresh program in South Carolina? Remains to be seen.”

Rattler threw 12 interceptions during his time in Norman, with five coming during his short stint as the starter last season. Now, he will be looking to be less turnover happy with South Carolina as their passing offense is in desperate need of an upgrade.

PicKell thinks if Rattler can do so, he has the opportunity to be a top quarterback in the country, let alone the SEC.

Spencer Rattler explains how he fits into South Carolina offense

Rattler has been off and running with the Gamecocks since he arrived on campus. He spent the spring and summer picking up his new offense down in Columbia. From what he says, it’s so far, so good.

In an appearance on an episode of ‘The Zach Gelb Show’ last week, Rattler said he’s working hard to pick up the playbook and build the necessary connections with his offensive personnel.

“Yeah, I really understand it now,” Rattler said. “Just being able to go through spring ball, go through summer ball with our player-led practices, and our short time with the coaches. All the little things. Staying in the film room, talking ball with them all the time. It’s definitely a change from where I was coming from but it was a change I was open to. I knew I would need it for my game to get even better. It’s been great. I’m still learning but I’m doing great.”