Former South Carolina quarterback joins Palmetto State high school coaching staff
A former South Carolina football starting quarterback has made a move in the coaching world. On Wednesday, Wando High School announced that Blake Mitchell would be joining their offensive coaching staff. Former USC receiver OrTre Smith is also on the Wando staff, serving as the team’s assistant wide receivers coach. Mitchell’s work with the Warriors will be his first time in high school coaching.
Mitchell, who played for the Gamecocks from 2004-2007 for head coaches Lou Holtz and Steve Spurrier, will be the team’s assistant quarterbacks coach. Following his playing days in Columbia, Mitchell spent a brief time playing semi-pro ball.
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Despite being part of a two-quarterback system under Spurrier (usually splitting time with the athletic Syvelle Newton), No. 12 had a strong career in garnet and black. He was the quarterback for many passes to Gamecock greats Sidney Rice, Kenny McKinley, and Jared Cook.
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During his South Carolina football career, Mitchell threw for 5992 yards and 38 touchdowns, both No. 7 in Gamecock history. His 60.7% completion rate is sixth-best in program history among qualified passers, too.
Mitchell was the first USC quarterback to earn wins over the Clemson Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs, Tennessee Volunteers, and Florida Gators in his career (Stephen Garcia and Connor Shaw have since matched Mitchell’s feat). He also won the 2006 Liberty Bowl MVP as the Gamecocks defeated the Houston Cougars 44-36. His four passing touchdowns in that game are a Carolina bowl record.
