Former South Carolina quarterback Ryan Hilinski announced on Tuesday that he will continue his playing career as a member of the Northwestern Wildcats. Hilinski, a sophomore, will join a program that will not include veteran Peyton Ramsey, who recently left. Hilinski announced his decision in a Twitter post.
“The journey of life has unexpected peaks and valleys”, He wrote. “I am grateful for every step I was able to take. I am grateful for my incredible family and for all those who helped me along the way as I pursued my dreams. I am excited to start this next chapter at Northwestern University. Thank you coach [Pat] Fitzgerald and trainer [Mike] Bajakian for giving me this incredible opportunity! Go, cats! “
Hilinski started for the Gamecocks as a real freshman in 2019. He completed 58.1% of his passes (236 out of 406) for 2,357 yards, shot for 11 touchdowns and had five interceptions in 11 games, including 324 yards against Alabama in his second career game.
He lost an out-of-season battle in 2020 with the transfer from Colorado to Collin Hill for the starting position under then-offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. True freshman Luke Doty had pressures behind Hill, which made it clear that Hilinski’s career path with the Gamecocks has changed dramatically since he signed as the 64th overall contender in the 2019 class. He appeared in just two games in 2020, which won ‘Does not count as an eligibility year due to the general exemption approved by the NCAA this year.
He will enter a program that has high expectations after two Big Ten West championships in the past three seasons.