Brandon McIlwain Commits to South Carolina: Gamecocks Land 2016 4-Star QB

Coveted quarterback Brandon McIlwain announced his collegiate intentions Wednesday afternoon. The 2016 Pennsylvania prospect picked South Carolina from a group of finalists that also featured Auburn, Penn State and Cal:

McIlwain, a junior at Council Rock North High School, spent time on campus in Columbia this fall. He followed that visit with trips to Duke, Penn State, Auburn and Florida.

The 6'0", 212-pound passer rates fourth nationally among dual-threat quarterbacks in 247Sports' composite 2016 rankings. McIlwain is considered one of the top 200 overall players in his recruiting class and gives the Gamecocks a solid foundation while building toward next signing day.

He understands the important role a quality quarterback can play in that effort.

"I'm making my commitment early so I can start recruiting South Carolina and help to build my class and compete for the next level," he told Chris Clark of GamecockCentral.com.

McIlwain, who seized starting duties as a freshman, can beat opponents with both his arm and legs.

He rushed for more 2,300 yards and 39 touchdowns during the past three seasons, per MaxPreps. McIlwain also gets it done through the air, throwing for 4,800 yards and 37 scores in that span. 

Though he currently lacks ideal height, there is still time for him to expand on a solid physical frame. McIlwain is a sturdy athlete who shrugs off defenders while buying time in the pocket.

He pushes the ball downfield with velocity but seems to understand it's smarter to rely on touch than power in certain situations. After tossing 24 interceptions as an underclassman, McIlwain cut that total to nine as a junior. 

His skill set is well-suited for a spread offense, but it certainly won't be defined by any particular scheme. Expect him to become a pass-first playmaker by the time he takes snaps in college though his rushing skills will always serve as a weapon.

"Coach [G.A.] Mangus has been very truthful to me," McIlwain told Clark. "Starting back in my freshman year, he compared me to Connor Shaw, where he was a great passer and could run as well. He did very well at South Carolina and is in the pros now. He's told me I'm similar to him."

The Gamecocks now hold three 2016 commitments. South Carolina is set to sign 4-star 2015 Georgia quarterback Lorenzo Nunez in February.

Recruit ratings courtesy of 247Sports.