Ryan Hilinski, South Carolina’s starting quarterback as a freshman in 2019, is transferring to Northwestern, he announced on Tuesday on Twitter.
He tweeted: “Life’s journey has unexpected peaks and valleys. … I’m excited to start this next chapter at Northwestern University. Thanks coach (Pat) Fitzgerald and coach (Mike) Bajakian for giving me this incredible opportunity! Go cats! “
Hilinksi could have the opportunity to play immediately with the Wildcats, as her 2020 quarterback, Peyton Ramsey, was a veteran.
In 2019, Hilinski took center stage for the Gamecocks after they lost their debut to North Carolina, and he was the starter in the final 11 games of that season. He shot 2,357 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions while completing 58.1 percent of his passes.
Collin Hill, a senior Colorado State transfer, and freshman Luke Doty overtook Hilinski on the depth chart in 2020. Hilinski appeared in just two games, completing 4 of 6 passes for 34 yards.
Hilinski will have three years of remaining eligibility after the transfer.