South Carolina to start sophomore QB Connor Mitch in opener

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Sophomore Connor Mitch will start at quarterback for South Carolina when it opens the season on Sept. 3 against North Carolina.

Coach Steve Spurrier announced the decision Tuesday, ending a four-way race.

Mitch was the favorite coming into fall practice, but Spurrier has said Mitch struggled during scrimmages. Spurrier has also said he may use more than one quarterback in the Thursday night opener against the Tar Heels in Charlotte.

Mitch played in two games last year as a redshirt freshman, completing 2-of-6 passes. He was the only quarterback to complete a pass for the Gamecocks other than starter Dylan Thompson.

Mitch finished his high school career in North Carolina second all-time in passing yards (12,078) and touchdowns (153).