Josh Pate on South Carolina's College Football Playoff chances: 'Theoretically, it could happen'

Josh Pate, a college football analyst and On3 partner, has included South Carolina in his College Football Playoff (CFP) contenders discussion for the 2026 season. Although not among the 12 "no-brainer" teams or the groups requiring internal debate, South Carolina is considered in the "outside looking in" category, suggesting potential for inclusion. This placement is attributed to the team's star players like Dylan Stewart and LaNorris Sellers.

Following a 4-8 season in 2025, South Carolina's inclusion in the CFP conversation indicates a potential rise in performance. Head Coach Shane Beamer had previously expressed confidence that his team would be in the CFP talks by 2026, despite setbacks like a tough loss to Texas A&M last season.

In preparation for the upcoming season, Beamer made strategic changes to his coaching staff, bringing in Kendal Briles, Randy Clements, and Stan Drayton for offensive roles, and hiring Deion Barnes for the defense after