Jake Bentley’s decision to transfer from South Carolina leaves the reins in the hands firmly of Ryan Hilinski.

Bentley transferred to the University of Utah earlier this year, and the Utes’ spring football is now getting underway. Although he left on good terms, Bentley hadn’t discussed exactly why he transferred from USC.

Following Monday’s practice, Bentley spoke to the media and opened up about his decision to transfer.

“It’s a little different, but that’s one of the reasons why I wanted to come here with Coach (Andy) Ludwig how prolific his offenses have been in the past and just the preparation for the next level … I wanted something different,” Bentley said during an interview after spring practice. “I’ve been in the Southeast my whole life. I just kind of wanted to come experience a different culture, a different environment. I told Coach (Kyle) Willingham when I came here that I wanted to grow as a person and as a football player. And I really thought Utah was the best place for that.”

Coach Ludwig that Bentley discusses above previously coached at Vanderbilt in 2015-18.

Utah’s starting quarterback Tyler Huntley graduated, and the door is open for Bentley to step in and play immediately.

“Jake is a big addition for us. In today’s world with the (transfer) portal and the way things are changing, the quarterback room can change dramatically from year to year,” Whittingham said when Bentley signed. “That’s the position that undergoes the most change. We’re excited to have Jake in the room. He’s got a big arm, more of a pro-style guy.”

You can watch the full interview below, via Dana Greene: