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After three seasons in Columbia, former blue chipper Shaq Roland's career at South Carolina is over, according to multiple reports. Roland's junior season wasn't terrible—he caught 26 passes for 356 yards and 4 touchdowns—but he fell far short of expectations and at times displayed a frustrating lack of commitment. Most notably, Roland missed the team flight to Lexington and ultimately did not attend South Carolina's loss to Kentucky.
It's a disappointing exit for a player who was expected to continue the lineage of star Gamecock receivers that includes Alshon Jeffery, Kenny McKinley, and Sidney Rice. Many thought Roland had turned a corner when he put on a show at last year's Capitol One Bowl against Wisconsin, catching 6 passes for 112 yards, including a few circus balls. Alas, that stands as Roland's lone 100 yard performance in 32 career games.
Steve Spurrier addresses the media today at 4 EST, and will certainly be asked about Roland's situation—we'll update with any fresh information. We at GABA wish Roland the best and hope he lands on his feet.