South Carolina quarterback Zeb Noland emerged in 2021 as one of the SEC’s most interesting stories.

Noland arrived in Columbia after playing for both Iowa State and North Dakota State and was expecting to serve as a graduate assistant coach. Depth issues at quarterback, however, called him into duty as a player.

The 6-2, 232-pounder battled injury issues but appeared in 7 games for the Gamecocks. He completed 53-of-95 passes for 690 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 1 interception.

Noland played the final game of his career on Thursday in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl and connected on 3-of-6 passes for 82 yards and a TD to help South Carolina beat North Carolina, 38-21.

On Friday, the fan favorite took to Twitter to thank the Gamecock faithful for their support, embracing a parody account that was created in his honor.

“What a career, with so many memories at every stop,” tweeted Noland. “To my final ride with Gamecock Nation I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Most importantly to every teammate at every school you know I love you guys, thank you! Colonel out!”

Noland and the Gamecocks finished 7-6 in Shane Beamer’s 1st season as head coach.