According to Steve Spurrier, Dylan Thompson is built for this.

South Carolina’s senior quarterback, who has performed in the shadow of Connor Shaw since 2011, steps into the full-time role for the first time in his career tonight against Texas A&M as the leader of the ninth-ranked Gamecocks.

Spurrier called Thompson the team’s best player during fall camp and expects a banner final campaign from his offensive captain.

Thompson’s teammates agree.

“Since the day Connor left, he’s been ready to step up and take control, and I think he’s going to be ready to play come Thursday,” said senior guard A.J. Cann in a recent interview with The Post and Courier. “He’s focused, he knows what’s going to happen. He knows he’s going to have control of this team, and I think he’s ready to go.”

The South Carolina native’s matched up against a Texas A&M defense that ranked at the bottom of the SEC last season against the pass. Led by senior corner Deshazor Everett, the Aggies return four starters at the back end, but two-year starter De’Vante Harris will miss tonight’s game with a urinary track infection.

Knowing the Head Ball Coach, the Gamecocks will take a shot early to see if improvements have been made in the Texas A&M secondary.