If there’s one person who understands what Luke Doty is facing, it’s former South Carolina quarterback Jake Bentley. After all, Bentley, who transferred to Utah and is now at South Alabama, like Doty, started some games during the second half of his freshman season.

With Ryan Hilinski and Collin Hill either in the transfer portal, or electing to move on from the Gamecocks, Doty is the incumbent starter and has the most experience on the roster. Bentley shared some thoughts on Doty at a recent Bentley Quarterback Camp organized by his father and former Gamecocks assistant coach Bobby Bentley.

“Luke Doty is one of the most special people I’ve been around,” said Bentley, who started at South Carolina from 2016-19, including as a true freshman midway through the season like Doty. “The thing about Luke is that he’s been the same guy since eighth grade. The same consistent guy that loves to work, just a positive guy. I just love being around Luke and I’m so glad he came out today. He’s gonna be a special player and I can’t wait just to see him grow.”

Bentley added that he hopes Doty doesn’t get distracted or wrapped up in any kind of social media issues because Bentley is excited to see what Doty’s future holds.

The Gamecocks have had a lot of turnover during the recent coaching change, player opt outs and transfers, and staff turnover. Doty is one of the players the Gamecocks need to lean on as they re-build the foundation of the program.