Before he was dismissed from the team for failing an alcohol-related test, South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia had plenty of potential. He had a productive junior season in 2010, during which he threw for more than 3,000 yards and 20 touchdown passes. Things went downhill during Garcia’s senior season, when he threw only four touchdown passes to go along with nine interceptions before being given the boot after his fifth suspension. Naturally, Garcia regrets the way his college career ended.
“I would have listened more closely, more in detail to the higher-ups,” Garcia told the Bright House Sports Network in Tampa during his first interview since the dismissal. “It wasn’t anybody’s fault, it was 100% my fault.
“I talked to (South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier) the other day. I sent him a text message to congratulate him on a successful year and his successful knee replacement…and he called me right back.”
Garcia described his relationship with Spurrier as “alright.” Considering Garcia was suspended five times before ultimately being dismissed from the team, Spurrier must have been extremely frustrated with him throughout his four seasons with the team.
Before screwing up so many times, Garcia had NFL potential. He was a decent enough passer and could make plays with his legs. Now an NFL career remains a long shot, although Garcia insists he has been working out three times a day to try to get there. It’s unfortunate he couldn’t straighten things out during his time at South Carolina.
