Torricelli Simpkins on a mission to help take South Carolina's offensive line to new heights
After dominating the FCS ranks the past three years, transfer offensive lineman Torricelli Simpkins III is ready to take on a new challenge with South Carolina.
“I’m a competitor. I love competition,” said Simpkins. “I pride myself in (competing). I want to be the most competitive (and) show that I can play at any level. That’s why I’m here.”
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The 6-foot-5, 320-pounder started 12 games this past season at North Carolina Central. His play earned him the honor of being named the 2023 MEAC Offensive Lineman of the Year, with the majority of his playing time coming at center. Starting in 34 career games in college, it’s with that experience, along with the natural ability to lead, that he’s looking to help South Carolina’s offensive line get to where it wants to be in 2024.
“Fans can expect an energetic guy that’s going to help the team. I’m not going to bring in any negative impact. I want to bring a positive impact on the team (and) help create a better narrative than what the O-Line has been getting… I want to make sure that we aren’t the downfall. That we get the team going. That’s what I want to the O-Line to be. The O-Line era.”
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Named to the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl Watchlist, Simpkins is considered by many sources around the program to be a prime candidate to start at center this season for the Gamecocks. But depending on what the strengths and weaknesses of the offensive line are, Simpkins could also see time at guard.
“We have a great group of guys. Coach told me I’m coming in to compete for the center spot and possibly the guard spot. So right now, we’re all just competing. There’s no guaranteed spots… (Shane Beamer) didn’t guarantee me anything. When I got here, I wasn’t expecting anything. I just want a fair chance to compete.”
