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SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Wofford will open its 2025 season at Gibbs Stadium on Sept. 6 against Richmond, and when the Terriers take the field that day, a new starting quarterback will be under center.
Head coach Shawn Watson has three candidates vying for the job, each bringing a unique skill set to an offense looking for more consistency in the Southern Conference. Sophomore transfers Jayden Whitaker (Gannon University) and J.T. Fayard (Northwestern State) join true freshman Ethan Drumm (The Bolles School) in a competition that began in spring practice and will carry into fall camp.
Watson said the additions have already transformed the position group.
“The three new quarterbacks have done a tremendous job,” Watson said after spring practice. “Where they are today shows how far they have come. We have a better quarterback room than we’ve ever had here.”
(woffordterriers.com)
Spotlight: Jayden Whitaker
Whitaker, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound sophomore, arrives from Gannon University, where he threw for more than 2,100 yards and 18 total touchdowns in 2024. Known for his dual-threat ability, Whitaker can extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws on the run. His mobility adds an element that could keep defenses off balance, and his starting experience at the collegiate level gives him an early edge.
Spotlight: J.T. Fayard
Fayard, at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, brings prototypical size and arm strength to the position. The sophomore transfer started eight games at Northwestern State last season, passing for just under 1,000 yards. He thrives in the pocket and has the ability to stretch the field vertically, which could open up Wofford’s passing attack if he wins the job.
Spotlight: Ethan Drumm
Drumm, a 6-foot-3 freshman from The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Fla., enrolled early and participated in spring drills. Coaches have praised his poise, accuracy and footwork for a player his age. While he lacks college game experience, his fundamentals and command of the offense have impressed teammates, making him a dark-horse candidate in the competition.
Watson emphasized that the starting job will go to the quarterback who can consistently execute and lead the team.
“We’re looking for the guy who takes care of the football, leads the huddle, and moves the chains,” Watson told Fox Carolina. “It’s a healthy competition, and that’s exactly what you want at the position.”
(foxcarolina.com)
Wofford’s offense averaged just 16.8 points per game last season, and finding the right quarterback will be critical to improving that number. Whitaker’s mobility, Fayard’s arm talent and Drumm’s precision all present different possibilities for shaping the attack.
Fans will get their first look at the winner of the competition when Wofford hosts Richmond in its home opener Sept. 6, a game that could set the tone for the Terriers’ 2025 campaign.
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