Winning at South Carolina won’t be easy for the Gamecocks’ next coach. Not in the short term, anyway.

Only two seasons removed from a third straight 11-win season, the Gamecocks have rebuilding to do.

And the superstar in-state recruits — Marcus Lattimore, Alshon Jeffery, Jadaveon Clowney,  and Stephon Gilmore, to name a few — that Steve Spurrier landed won’t be as easy to sign after a 3-9 season and Clemson’s rise to prominence under super recruiter Dabo Swinney.

The early duties for the new Gamecocks coach will be finding — or developing — a capable quarterback.

Brandon McIlwain, a four-star prospect from Pennsylvania, committed almost a year ago. South Carolina should have a good chance to keep him — he’s also a top baseball prospect and playing baseball for the Gamecocks would be an attractive option for him.

Holdovers Lorenzo Nunez and Perry Orth have experience, but can’t be depended on to win at the SEC level. Highly touted Connor Mitch, the supposed successor to Dylan Thompson, hasn’t panned out.

There are no proven playmakers left. Pharoh Cooper is leaving for the NFL. Brandon Wilds, oft-injured, but talented, will be gone.

Deebo Samuel is the leading returning receiver with 12 catches for 161 yards and one TD. David Williams, the top returning running back, had only 299 yards.

The Gamecocks also lose three starters on the offensive line and tight end Jerell Adams.

On defense, South Carolina loses top player Skai Moore, who is expected to leave early. Other key defenders T.J. Gurley, Isaiah Johnson and T.J. Holloman are also leaving.

Spurrier left South Carolina with memories of its greatest feats and higher expectations. The new coach coach may have trouble matching them.