South Carolina quarterback Dante Reno has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking a significant and unexpected move that could shake up the quarterback landscape ahead of the 2025 college football season. Reno, a former four-star recruit and one of the most highly-touted prospects in the Gamecocks’ recent quarterback pipeline, had long been viewed as a potential face of the program. But now, less than a year after arriving in Columbia with high hopes and strong support from the fan base, Reno is seeking a new home—leaving behind questions, speculation, and plenty of what-ifs.
Reno’s departure comes at a curious time. The Gamecocks are coming off a rebuilding year under head coach Shane Beamer, who has worked tirelessly to re-establish South Carolina as a contender in the SEC East. With the departure of veteran quarterback Spencer Rattler to the NFL, many assumed Reno would be in line to compete for the starting job in 2025. Instead, it appears the writing had been on the wall for weeks—if not longer. Sources close to the program had quietly hinted at internal shifts within the quarterback room, and whispers of dissatisfaction regarding reps, depth chart hierarchy, and offensive fit had begun to emerge. Those whispers have now turned into reality.
For Reno, the decision to transfer is likely rooted in a desire to find the right opportunity—a place where he can showcase his talent, command the huddle, and lead an offense built around his strengths. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing in at around 215 pounds, Reno possesses a live arm, solid mechanics, and a natural leadership quality that had programs lining up for his services during the recruiting process. Originally from Cheshire, Connecticut, Reno committed to South Carolina in July 2022 and enrolled early to get a head start on the playbook. His work ethic and competitive fire were praised throughout spring ball, and he showed flashes of promise that suggested a bright future.
But promise doesn’t always guarantee opportunity, and college football—especially in the transfer portal era—has become a constant balancing act between development, patience, and timing. In Reno’s case, patience may have run out. With fellow quarterback LaNorris Sellers emerging as a potential breakout player and the Gamecocks bringing in additional talent through both recruiting and the portal, the depth chart grew increasingly crowded. Reno found himself in a position that no elite competitor enjoys—looking up rather than ahead.
It’s important to remember that Reno’s journey is not unusual in today’s game. The transfer portal has reshaped college football, offering players the freedom to reevaluate their situations and make choices that prioritize immediate playing time and personal growth. Quarterbacks, in particular, have been among the most frequent entrants into the portal, often leaving in pursuit of clearer paths to starting roles. For every success story like Bo Nix or Michael Penix Jr., who revitalized their careers in new systems, there are countless others navigating the same winding road in search of stability.
As news of Reno’s portal entry spread, reactions poured in from Gamecock fans, college football analysts, and recruiting insiders alike. Some expressed disappointment, having envisioned Reno as the future of South Carolina football. Others took a more pragmatic view, recognizing that his departure could be a win-win scenario if both sides find what they’re looking for. For Reno, the goal now shifts to finding the right fit—both in terms of scheme and situation.
Several programs will no doubt express interest. Reno’s talent is not in question, and his early experience within an SEC program gives him an edge as a plug-and-play option. Schools in need of a young quarterback with upside and leadership traits—especially those with wide-open competitions or quarterback transitions—could see Reno as an ideal addition. Group of Five schools, Power Five programs with unproven quarterback rooms, and even teams dealing with late decommitments or injuries will surely be doing their homework.
For South Carolina, the loss of Reno creates both a challenge and an opportunity. The quarterback room will need to regroup, and the staff will likely explore additional portal options of their own. But this is also a chance to double down on the players already in the system. LaNorris Sellers has the tools to be dynamic, and incoming recruits will get more attention as the staff retools the depth chart. Beamer, for his part, has remained steadfast in his message about building a sustainable program culture—one rooted in competition, accountability, and adaptability. Losing a quarterback like Reno stings, but it doesn’t derail the long-term vision.
Recruiting also takes a hit. Reno had been one of the more vocal leaders of South Carolina’s 2024 recruiting class, helping to recruit other high-profile prospects and building relationships with fans through social media and community events. His presence added momentum to the class and gave fans something to rally behind during a transition period. Losing that figure creates a void—one that’s both symbolic and practical. It’s a reminder that in modern college football, nothing is set in stone.
The decision to leave wasn’t likely made lightly. Reno’s family has deep ties to football. His father, Tony Reno, is the head coach at Yale, and football IQ runs through his bloodline. That background gave Dante a unique perspective on the game—a blend of mental sharpness and poise under pressure. Those qualities will serve him well as he navigates this next chapter. Wherever he ends up, Reno will bring a polished skill set, a strong foundation, and the hunger of a player with something to prove.
If there’s a silver lining for Reno, it’s that his story is far from over. Sometimes, a change in scenery is exactly what a player needs to flourish. There’s precedent for this across the country—quarterbacks finding new life in systems that better suit their style or coaches who unlock their full potential. Reno’s time at South Carolina may not have unfolded as envisioned, but that doesn’t diminish his upside or his future.
For now, the focus turns to what’s next. Reno will likely begin taking visits, speaking with coaching staffs, and evaluating programs that align with his goals. The portal process can move quickly, especially for quarterbacks, and the next few weeks could be decisive. As the spring portal window unfolds, teams will be watching closely—waiting to see where Reno lands and how his journey continues.
In many ways, Dante Reno’s transfer symbolizes the ongoing evolution of college football. It’s a sport increasingly defined by movement, flexibility, and second chances. Programs must adapt, players must assess, and fans must recalibrate their expectations. Reno is the latest example of a talented player making a difficult decision in pursuit of the right opportunity—a decision that carries both risk and reward.
No matter where he goes, Reno will be a name to follow. He’s too talented, too motivated, and too driven to be anything less than a compelling figure in the next wave of college football storylines. His time at South Carolina may be over, but the journey is just beginning—and the next chapter could be his most defining yet.