All-Time Gamecock Team - QB (Poll)

[cockyhoskins]

New thread idea. We are going to vote on the All-Time Gamecock Team. I will start with each position as a poll. First place votes makes first team. Second place makes second.

First up is QB.

If your vote is other, state the other.

All-Time QB Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=1225)
All-Time WR Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=27903)
All-Time RB Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=1233)
All-Time TE Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=1864)
All-Time LB Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=3039)
All-Time DB Poll (http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=8537)

[buzzcock]

:spurrier: This 'cocky' is my opinion of Ellis. He was like Spring......he came in like a Lion and left like a lamb.......killing the offense with delay of game penalties, crumbling when he heard footsteps. Grantz and Suggs never quit.......Ellis did. :spurrier:

[cockyhoskins]

buzz, I didn't vote for Ellis. This is my impression of him. I once heard a joke. It went something like this:

\"Hey did you hear Todd Ellis tried to commit suicide?\"

\"No.\"

\"Yeah, he did. But the bullet was intercepted.\"

That was floating around for quite awhile. Similar to this cartoon of Quincy Carter:

http://www2.cockytalk.com/uploads/150505034337PMQUINCY1.JPG

[buzzcock]

To me, Ellis was a promise unfulfilled. He started out with such magnitude and left like a rotten plum. Anyway.......of the QBs you mentioned, I still say Grantz and Suggs did the most................Taneyhill wasn't too far behind.
One last thing........can you stand listening to Ellis do the pbp?

[cockyhoskins]

I voted for Petty. My other choices would be Suggs, Grantz and Tanneyhill. I picked Petty mostly because I admired his true desire to win (playing hurt, etc.) and his two New Years Day bowl wins. I also admire Tanneyhill because of his desire to win and, as a college student during his tenure, I truly enjoyed his cockiness.

I can't put Suggs or Grantz on top because I didn't get to see them live.

Ellis gets on my nerves in the booth. I think he is getting better. He has the voice for it, just not the talent or instinct. On a side note, he and I went to law school together. He is a pretty good guy.

[khosk]

I put Petty also. He was a winner. He was a big difference in the teams the last 3 years and the teams that went to New Years Day bowls. If we would have had him, we would have won a few more games the last 3 years. I think Anthony Wright had the talent, but didn't really start to put it together till the pros.

[snoopcockycock]

i put grantz, because i did get to watch him play, and he was incredible. but i don't understand why you all are talking so much crap about ellis. ellis was an excellent qb, and one of the best in usc history. you all might want to go back and look at the stats. i watched him pick uga apart like a surgeon. also, my second and third choices would be hold and suggs respectively. nobody is is giving mike hold any props, but he was the man in the mid 80's, and don't forget the 84 season. he rarely had good protection, but he could really make it happen!

[cockyhoskins]

snoop, where you been?

I think Ellis was an excellent talent. I just think he made bad decisions. He had a gun of an arm, like no one else at USC (except maybe Anthony Wright). Sure he put up some sick, sick numbers. Unfortunately, it didn't translate to the post-season success that Petty had. That was the ultimate deciding factor for me.

[cockyhoskins]

Alright, here we go. Some numbers to help with the voting:

Career Passing Leader:
Todd Ellis 9,953 yds
Taneyhill 8,782 yds
Anthony Wright 5,681
Phil Petty 5,652
Tommy Suggs 4,916
Bobby Fuller 4,896
Jeff Grantz 3,440
Mike Hold 2,981
Garry Harper 2,971
Ron Bass 2,933

Single Game Records (Yds)
Taneyhill 473
Taneyhill 451
Ellis 425
Taneyhill 405
Ellis 394
Taneyhill 389

Career Completions
Taneyhill 753
Ellis 747
Phil Petty 454
Anthony Wright 432
Bobby Fuller 373

Career Touchdowns
Taneyhill 62
Ellis 49
Wright 38
Suggs 34
Petty, Fuller 28
Grantz 26

[snoopcockycock]

i went on another scubadiving trip, and this one took several days away from the pc. i agree with your opinion of ellis, he had the skills, but he did make bad decisions, sometimes. but, he doesn't deserve to be roasted, the way he was being roasted earlier in this thread, when he put up 747 TD's, and almost ten thousand yards! ya know...

[USCKEN]

I SAY PETTY! YEAH THE STATS ARE NO COMPARISON AND WE HAD A 17-7 RECORD, PLUS TWO OUTBACK BOWL VICTORIES. I SAY PHIL PETTY!! COULD YOU IMAGINE WHAT THE LAST TWO YRS MIGHT HAD BEEN WITH HIM AT THE HELM.

[USCKEN]

sorry! forgot my caps

[RoosterBooster]

Voted Tanneyhill just because I saw him win 3 times in Death Valley and sign the Tiger Paw. Hard not to vote for Grantz or Hold. I never saw Grantz in person and there is little film. From what I've heard and seen he was an awesome scrambler. It was hard not to vote for Hold though. Hold never, never, never quit.

[RoosterBooster]

The problem with Todd was all mental. He was soooo talented he just thought he could make throws he was not capable of making. Also in his defense he did not exactly come in under a great aerial offensive coordinator. He came in under the master of the veer. This did account for a few of Todd's tosses to the wrong jersey. The offense put him in a lot of situations where his only option was to throw back across the field or take the sack and Todd always thought he could make the throw and quite often did. Steve just had that intangible desire that made his feet just quick enough to get away and his pass just high enough to get over the defender. The great thing about this argument is if we have it in 5 or 10 years we will more than likely have several more names and a lot more touchdowns. However I don't think we will ever have another quarterback who can live up to Bobby Fuller's 373 touchdowns much less Tanneyhill's 753???? What is this stat. Could not be career touchdown passes.

[RoosterBooster]

You left off the Strongest, fastest, most talented and best looking Gamecock quarterback of all time. The most popular athlete USC has ever produced, THE BACKUP QB.

[Spur]

I voted for Tanneyhill but Petty was a very close 2nd.

Petty was my my favorite of All-Time though.

Very little physical skills but a great head, leader, and person.

Won games as championship QB's do

[cockyhoskins]

LOL Booster. The stats didn't get copied over right. 750+ was completions. 62 is touchdowns.

[buzzcock]

[quote:e770c3d23e=\"snoopcockycock\"]i went on another scubadiving trip, and this one took several days away from the pc. i agree with your opinion of ellis, he had the skills, but he did make bad decisions, sometimes. but, he doesn't deserve to be roasted, the way he was being roasted earlier in this thread, when he put up 747 TD's, and almost ten thousand yards! ya know...[/quote:e770c3d23e]

Snoopy---I DID blast Ellis..........but, because he had so much potential and let his team and his fans down the older he got............You'd expect a QB to improve with age......he went in reverse......that's the reason a lot of old GC fans don't think too highly of him. I do not wish him ill whatsoever........but, his memory is tarnished by lost timeouts, ints., poor execution, taking dives and hearing the pitter-patter of feet coming near him and him folding like a well used coker seed sack.
I still have respect for what he did accomplish, just not in how he finished.
GO COCKS!!!

[RoosterBooster]

I know what you mean Buzz. The potential Todd showed us in that Miami game his freshman year had everyone thinking National Championship and a couple of Heisman's before he left. I do think as I mentioned he never had a good offensive coordinator. To his credit I would put the '87 Cocks against any team we have ever fielded. There were some great throws. We should also remember he had some great receivers. I still say to this day we beat Nebraska.

[buzzcock]

Well........with the way the stadium was swaying.....I was surprised the Huskers didn't lay down and give up, thinking it'd fall on them. I was underneath it and scared as a chicken about to be plucked..... :mrgreen:

[dshocker]

While I like the names put up on the poll, my honest opinion is that Anthony Wright was the best QB we ever had. Unfortunetly due to injuries, a non existent passing game and umm....BRAD SCOTT, he was also the most under-utilized athlete to ever go through USC football (Though Summers was a close second to that last year....25 carriers a game my butt!)

[buzzcock]

[quote:a7a043ffbf=\"RoosterBooster\"]The problem with Todd was all mental. He was soooo talented he just thought he could make throws he was not capable of making. Also in his defense he did not exactly come in under a great aerial offensive coordinator. He came in under the master of the veer. This did account for a few of Todd's tosses to the wrong jersey. The offense put him in a lot of situations where his only option was to throw back across the field or take the sack and Todd always thought he could make the throw and quite often did. Steve just had that intangible desire that made his feet just quick enough to get away and his pass just high enough to get over the defender. The great thing about this argument is if we have it in 5 or 10 years we will more than likely have several more names and a lot more touchdowns. However I don't think we will ever have another quarterback who can live up to Bobby Fuller's 373 touchdowns much less Tanneyhill's 753???? What is this stat. Could not be career touchdown passes.[/quote:a7a043ffbf]

As memory serves me, the offense was changed for Ellis to the \"run-n-shoot\", akin to the one started in Houston. Ellis was from the start a passer and finished as a .........well, call him anything you want.

[RoosterBooster]

As memory serves me, the offense was changed for Ellis to the \"run-n-shoot\", akin to the one started in Houston. Ellis was from the start a passer and finished as a .........well, call him anything you want\"


Yes, the offense was changed to suit Ellis. Frank Sadler was not the guy to create a passing offense. He was a GREAT run oriented offensive coordinator. Putting together a passing attack was not right for him. This is why he left after the 87 season. However, the guy that replaced him, Al Groh was also not suited for a high powered offense. I never figured that move out. I always saw him as a much better defensive than offensive mind. He was never really associated with a high power offense. Anyway that was my point. Put Ellis under a young Spurrier or Steve Logan type coordinator in that era and who knows what might have happened.

[MDCox]

First off, I am too young to remember Suggs, so it has be to Tannyhill for me. Imagine him in Spurrier's offense. I think even Holtz could have been successful with Tannyhill. He was one of the best QBs in college of his time. Did nothing in the Pros, so it appeared he was a system oriented QB. But, Wow could he sling the ball. If he had a good defense around him we would have been 8-3, 9-2, 9-2 his last few years. And I know that sounds like a stretch, but the defense was so bad it made the team look horrible, but the offense was putting up some remarkable numbers. Almost every QB and RB we played during those years had career days against us. I bet we are the only ones that remember Bo Williams of Ky (?)[ I think].

[cockyhoskins]

[bump] WR poll coming next

[WhazupCock95]

Alright, here we go. Some numbers to help with the voting:

Career Passing Leader:
Todd Ellis 9,953 yds
Taneyhill 8,782 yds
Anthony Wright 5,681
Phil Petty 5,652
Tommy Suggs 4,916
Bobby Fuller 4,896
Jeff Grantz 3,440
Mike Hold 2,981
Garry Harper 2,971
Ron Bass 2,933

Single Game Records (Yds)
Taneyhill 473
Taneyhill 451
Ellis 425
Taneyhill 405
Ellis 394
Taneyhill 389

Career Completions
Taneyhill 753
Ellis 747
Phil Petty 454
Anthony Wright 432
Bobby Fuller 373

Career Touchdowns
Taneyhill 62
Ellis 49
Wright 38
Suggs 34
Petty, Fuller 28
Grantz 26

Repost to answer your question Jaydogg, well at least part of it.:lol:

[Mobile Ranger]

Statistically Tanneyhill was the best QB that we have ever had. He also had that cocky attitude that we need. That is why I think he is the best we have ever had.

[SpicyChicken]

I'll be honest I am kinda shocked that Petty is leading this thing

[GarnetBlack]

:spurrier: This 'cocky' is my opinion of Ellis. He was like Spring......he came in like a Lion and left like a lamb.......killing the offense with delay of game penalties, crumbling when he heard footsteps. Grantz and Suggs never quit.......Ellis did. :spurrier:
sorry fellas I was young, but knew Ellis personally and he was an awesome guy. He could've and should've been USC best QB ever, but things happened etc.

[CockRoche]

I think there was a poll in The State a while back that picked Grantz as the greatest all time QB. I never saw him play but I do remember a little of when Mike Hold played. I was pretty young, but if I remember correctly, he split time with another QB. It just always seemed to me like he made something happen when he was in the game. As far as Ellis doing to pbp, I just made my first post last week and I believe it was about how bad a job I think he does. He actually said during a running play: "down to the eighty..uh twenty yard line and he's always getting his yardages wrong during the game. How about doing a poll of who wants Mike Morgan versus Todd Ellis. Like someone said, he might do well as a color commentator.

[vacock]

Jeff Gantz just always seemed to find a way to get the job done.
He was a real winner.

[Gamecock History]

What is ironic is that during most of Phil Petty's playing days the majority of the fans didn't even think he was the best QB on the team, much less ever.
Even starting his senior season there was grumblings that we might could even compete for a championship if we had an above average QB.

My opinion is that Petty was effective, actually very effective. And that is one key to being a great QB. But I think he lacked in the other main components of being a QB. He had a huge heart and would doing anything for Carolina.Phil was good at not doing anything that would lose any games for us but rarely, if ever, did he win any on his own merit either.

[cockyhoskins]

That's it GH. He was a smart, ball control style QB. He also has more bowl victories than any other QB in Gamecock history.

[RoosterBooster]

You are right Petty was simply a winner. If talent were all it took I don't think we would be talking about anyone but Anthony and Todd. But most of the votes we see are Tanneyhill, Grantz, and Petty. They had two things in common. Huge hearts and they were and still are Gamecocks to the core. Same way with Suggs.

[Spur's Addiction]

I'll have to go with Tanneyhill.

[Gamecock History]

"He also has more bowl victories than any other QB in Gamecock history."

But CockyHoskins, if we use that as the determining factor, then Brian Scott is the All-Time Greatest Receiver in Gamecock history. I think Brian Scott had just as much to do with the two bowl victories as did Petty, if not more.

I don't think bowl victories or number of wins can be used to fairly judge the greatest players because it is a team game. There is no way of saying or knowing if that one player was the determining factor in the team winning or losing.

[Spur]

What is ironic is that during most of Phil Petty's playing days the majority of the fans didn't even think he was the best QB on the team, much less ever.
Even starting his senior season there was grumblings that we might could even compete for a championship if we had an above average QB.

My opinion is that Petty was effective, actually very effective. And that is one key to being a great QB. But I think he lacked in the other main components of being a QB. He had a huge heart and would doing anything for Carolina.Phil was good at not doing anything that would lose any games for us but rarely, if ever, did he win any on his own merit either.

Petty was by means not a great athletic QB but he was not horrible either at throwing the ball.

His throws in some timely situations were quite impressive.

[mickeyrivers]

That's it GH. He was a smart, ball control style QB. He also has more bowl victories than any other QB in Gamecock history.
it's not steve tanneyhill's (or ellis or whoever's) fault he didn't play under lou holtz, with a charlie strong defense behind him, and all that talent than petty had surrounding him.

[garnetknight]

Petty Gets My Vote.The Way He Performed In The Game Aganst Bama And Tyler Watts In 2001: Year Of The Gamecocks! DVD On The Way Cocky :-) And Ill Have 2006 In The Morning! , Wooohoooooooooo!!

[Lil Jerry Seinfeld]

Alex Riley gives us a look back on the men who helped shape the USC program

By Alex Riley, Sports Editor

Published: Wednesday, July 13, 2005

http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper247/stills/zcx8u8t5.jpg

http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper247/stills/54658344.jpg

Long before people such as Michael Vick or Donovan McNabb hit the scene, Jeff Grantz had already showed what a "quarterback who can run" looked like. His footwork and arm strength made him one of the most beloved Gamecock players of all time.

Veteran Gamecock sportscaster Bob Fulton called Grantz "the best all-around athlete that Carolina's ever seen."

"He was an excellent football player, he could have been on the basketball team if he'd had the time, and he was an excellent baseball player." Fulton said. "He pulled a lot of games out of the fire. He was tough, a real team leader."

A native of Bel Air, Md., Grantz came to Columbia in 1972 with the promise of being able to play a varsity sport on a full rid scholarship, no matter which sport he chose.

"Coach Dietzel, who coached football and was the athletic director at the time, was actually the only person to offer me the opportunity to play both sports from the beginning of my career, throughout," Grantz said. "Actually he offered me an and/or scholarship to where I could play football, baseball or both. In other words, if things didn't work out in football, I could drop off and play just baseball."

Luckily for Gamecock fans, they both worked out.

Grantz finished his stellar Gamecock career behind only Tommy Suggs as the second-best career passing leader with 3,440 yards through the air and 26 touchdowns. Today, Grantz is No. 7 on the career list. When he left USC in 1975, he sat in the top 10 of career rushing yards with 1,577 and another 26 touchdowns. Today, he sits at No. 20.

"(Running and throwing are) a great luxury to have," Grantz said. "Fortunately for me, I had the gift of some speed coming up through my college career. We did a lot of things that revolved around an athletic quarterback. We ran the veer, a sprint out passing attack, a lot (of) the offense was designed around a running quarterback."

While he will always be known as a quarterback, Grantz shined with his feet and his arm. He owns three passing plays of 60 yards or more in the Carolina record book, but it was a game in 1973 against Ohio that showcased his footwork. Grantz posted a 260-yard performance against Ohio, the best rushing performance by a Gamecock until 1991, when Brandon Bennett posted a 278-yard day against East Tennessee State.

The best season with Grantz at the helm came in 1975 when some of USC's most historic football moments took place. He received a huge supportive showing from his backfield, as USC posted the second duo of running backs in NCAA history to rush for 1,000 yards each. Kevin Long (1,133) and Clarence Williams (1,073) posted 1,000-yard campaigns, while Grantz added almost another 500 yards on the ground.

While the statistics were historic, so was the season finale, as USC squared off with Clemson for bowl eligibility.

After losing to N.C. State on the road in a tight ball game, USC returned home and never gained the upper hand against Appalachian State, allowing a 39-34 upset.

"Going into (the Clemson game), it was real important we won that game to be bowl eligible," Grantz said. "The coaches put together a great game plan for us. (The coaches) came up with this scheme that really put pressure on their defensive backs and, to be honest with you, the defensive backfield of Clemson never could adjust to that motion and never could cover the right person."

The result was a drubbing 56-20 of the Tigers, as Grantz threw for five scores and ran for another. The Gamecocks won so easily they never punted or kicked a field goal all day.

"That was about as perfect of an offensive performance as you could hope for," Grantz said.

Grantz's senior season concluded with a 7-4 record and a berth in the Tangerine Bowl, USC's first bowl bid since 1969.

"The bowl game was definitely a great thing for us," Grantz said. "That was our goal from our freshman year on. Our goal was to go to a bowl game. We had just missed that my sophomore year at 7-4. Our senior year with a new coach, we didn't really have any idea what would happen with that. But everything fell into place. It was just a great culmination to my career."

USC was matched up with a Miami of Ohio team that featured a handful of players that would later play in the NFL. The RedHawks won the game 20-7, ending Grantz's football career as a Gamecock.

His success on the college gridiron didn't go unnoticed, as Grantz was selected a Second Team All-American in 1975, and earned spots on the East-West Shrine Game, Japan Bowl and Hula Bowl rosters.

The NFL seemed not to take notice of Grantz's abilities, as the Miami Dolphins drafted him in the 17th round. After rookie mini-camp, he returned to Columbia where he became a graduate assistant for coach Jim Carlen for two years before getting into the business.

"At that time when I was drafted as an athlete, Bob Griese was (the Dolphins) starter, Earl Morall was their backup and Don Strock was their number three," Grantz said. "When I went to the three day rookie camp, I was put in as a receiver some and really didn't feel comfortable. "

While his success was unlike any other at USC, Grantz received one of the most prestigious awards ever given out, being named to the USC All-Century team as the quarterback in 1992 when Carolina celebrated its 100th football anniversary.

Grantz will be imortalized as a quarterback, but also had a successful run as a shortstop for the baseball team, making a trip to the championship game of the College World Series.

Still living in the Columbia, Grantz works for Capital Wine as one of the best known salesmen in the Southeast.

[cockyhoskins]

Great article Lil Jerry! Thanks

[Spurticus]

All these QB's have good qualities that can be used to make an argument as to them being the best. I've seen most of them play, and loved watching all of them. I didn't see Tommy Suggs play live, but listened to Bob Fulton broadcast EVERY game Tommy played in. I saw Jeff Grantz play several games, and most of the QBs from Grantz on down until present day, I've seen many times. My vote goes to Jeff Grantz. As has been mentioned, he did what needed to be done to win games. He ran like a running back when he needed to, and when he couldn't run, he threw the ball very accurately. He was used to return Kickoffs some, and has a TD on a kickoff return. I saw the game, but don't remember who the opponent was ( thinking NC State ). Had Jeff not been hurt most of his Junior season, I'm convinced he would have been another Hiesman Trophy winner here at USC. ( at least runner up ). Tommy Suggs would be a close second in voting. with Mike Hold and Phil Petty running close behind

About Todd Ellis, I loved the way this guy played football, and I too believe he could have been Soooo much better under a different Coach. Joe Morrison built the Run and Shoot especially for Ellis, and just couldn't seem to get the Offensive Lineman to make that thing run. We were strong, but small, and usually getting shoved around late in the game due to that reason. Todd also went through several Offensive changes in his time here. I remember the R/S offense had a major flaw when we got into the red zone, and most teams played a "Bend don't Break" type Defense against it, and shut us down way too often inside our own 25. Morrison experimented with the I-formation in the red zone due to this, and tweeked this Offense several time over Todds 4 years here, and even changed it during the season. You can't keep switching on and off like that, and expect your QB to get comfortable behind the center.
As for him in the booth,..... I think he makes a great "Sideline" reporter. ( nuff said ).

[SpicyChicken]

Anyone notice this poll has four contenders, while the other three only have two front runners? It looks like we have had some good quarterbacks over the years.

[Postman824]

I went with Phil Petty, pretty simple he had 17 wins in two yrs. Did any body else? NO!

[Lil Jerry Seinfeld]

I did the same. He had two post-season victories and at many times showed the true heart of a Gamecock. He played hurt but came in when needed in key situations. He kept it clean on and off the field. He grew up a Gamecock and is a Gamecock for life.

Phil Petty got my vote!

[Spurticus]

I went with Phil Petty, pretty simple he had 17 wins in two yrs. Did any body else? NO!

Good one. No you're right, but Tommy Suggs should get some high consideration as well. He was the QB for the ACC Championship team, and was the only QB in the school's history that never suffered a loss against Clemson.

[mickeyrivers]

I went with Phil Petty, pretty simple he had 17 wins in two yrs. Did any body else? NO!

you think phil petty would have won 17 games in 2 years under brad scott or sparky woods?

by that logic, lou holtz is our greatest coach ever. derek watson is our best running back ever. etc.

[cockyhoskins]

http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper247/stills/ru2y50r8.jpg

In an age of pocket passers and high-flying offensive strategy, former Gamecock quarterback Todd Ellis still shines above all other USC passers as the career leader with the numbers to back it up.

When Ellis graduated from USC in 1989, he left behind a legacy of almost every record a quarterback could have. His 9,953 career yards are still good enough for the career best by a Gamecock passer. His .553 completion percentage is still third best, while his 49 career touchdowns places him at the second all-time of any position.

He holds numerous spots in the single-game passing, attempts and completions records, while his 3,206 yards in 1987 is the best ever by a Carolina quarterback in a single season. Twenty-five games with more than 200 yards passing, including a 425-yard performance against East Carolina in 1987, highlight Ellis' numbers sprinkled throughout the USC record book.

"We were on the cutting edge with the 'run and shoot,'" Ellis said. "I just got the opportunities to make the throws."

But there was more to the success of the Greensboro, N.C., native than just his numbers. Ellis took on a system under the late coach Joe Morrison that allowed him to shine in Columbia and nationally.

After the Black Magic season of 1984, the USC faithful were looking for a leader to guide them back to national prominence, and they got just that with Ellis.

"There were a couple of reasons (I chose USC): Number one, it was the time Carolina was coming off its 10-2 season, the Black Magic season and the national exposure had never been higher down here," Ellis said. "The fan base was (at its best here), and support was not going to be a problem. We played a great independent schedule back then. We got to play the Georgias, Nebraskas and Miamis, and even though we weren't in a conference, we got to play on a national level."

Back-to-back 8-4 seasons were the best two-year run by any Gamecock teams until the 2000 and 2001 campaigns, and Ellis' 23 victories under center leave him as the winningest field general in USC history.

"The number of victories, no one has ever won more games in their career than I have. That's probably what I'm most proud of," Ellis said.

Two of the biggest wins with Ellis at the helm came during that two-year run. In 1987, USC and Clemson both arrived in Columbia as top-20 teams, but the Gamecocks dominated in a 20-7 win against the Tigers.

"Danny Ford would call that game the one time his team was intimidated," Ellis said.

The following season, Ellis brought sixth-ranked Georgia to their knees, as Robert Brooks corralled a one-handed, over-the-shoulder touchdown from Ellis to highlight a 23-10 win against the Bulldogs.

One of the biggest influences on Ellis' success came from the man who brought him to Carolina, coach Morrison.

"He was a man's man," Ellis said. "He expected you to act like a man, he told you what needed to be done, and if didn't get it done, it was partly your problem. He was a tough competitor and a man you wanted to play for."

Along with Morrison's guidance, Ellis lined up with three of the biggest offensive stars to rise out of the Carolina program. Wide receivers Sterling Sharpe and Robert Brooks, along with running back Harold Green, allowed Ellis to run multifaceted and deadly offense.

"There was nobody better than those guys," Ellis said. "Sterling Sharpe built himself like Robert Brooks did, through hard work into being great players. I think the most natural athlete was Harold Green. Harold came in and was capable of busting runs against anybody at any time when he was a freshman and was just an incredible athlete. The work ethic of Sterling and Robert is what made them great players, and we fit in perfectly. I respect those players today more for their work ethic than their overall skills."

While Ellis was surrounded by some of the finest names to play at Carolina, his accolades don't lie. In 1986, Ellis earned a spot on The Sporting News's All-America Second Team and Freshmen First Team, followed by an AP All-America honorable mention in 1987. He also managed a strong run at the Heisman Trophy, while shattering numerous NCAA records.

Ellis also guided USC back to national glory, taking the Gamecocks to back-to-back bowl berths in the 1987 Gator Bowl and 1988 Liberty Bowl, while rising as high as the top five in the national polls.

"It was a thrill to be a part of that and get some national exposure at times," Ellis said. "At certain times we were ranked in the top five and consistently stayed around the top 25. That's what its all about. You don't come here to be mediocre, you want to go to bowl games, and you want to win."

After finishing his college career, Ellis was selected by the Denver Broncos in the ninth round of the NFL draft. But being behind two 10-year league veterans, one being Hall of Famer John Elway, put the Broncos in a tight spot, dropping Ellis from the roster before the season opener. After a short stint in the World League, Ellis returned to Columbia with his wife to attend law school. He has become a successful attorney in the Columbia area.

Ellis has not lost his love for the game and team that made him a hero. While he wears a suit to court Monday through Friday, Saturday's are reserved for a more garnet-and-black look, as Ellis serves as radio announcer for Gamecock football.

"I love the feel of being around the program," Ellis said. "I got the best seat in the house now. It is a great thrill for me to come back to call the games at Williams-Brice. And to go see the best football in the country and to try to convey to the listeners how good it is to be a Gamecock, there's nothing else like it."

http://www.dailygamecock.com/media/paper247/news/2005/07/27/Sports/Gamecock.Greats.Todd.Ellis-964399.shtml

[PeeCock]

Todd Ellis? Do you mean "Mr. Interception?" I went round-and-round with a few guys on one of the other boards about him a few weeks ago. They thought his you-know-what didn't stink. Not sure why, unless all they were looking strictly at were the number of yards he passed for. JC, I could pass for that many yards if I threw the ball 3 out of every 4 downs! Here's the kicker: In 3 3/4 years (he went down in game 8 with an injury against NC State in his Senior year), Ellis threw 73 interceptions!! He literally threw for more interceptions in his career than he did TD passes. And some of these AHs want to retire his number! For what? Costing us who-knows-how-many wins over the course of his career by throwing to the opposition? Do the math. Having thrown that many INTs, he ALONE is responsible for almost 2 turnovers per game for every game he ever played in! Any running back who fumbled the ball twice in a game would find his a$$ on the bench after the second game in which he did it. Compared to Taneyhill, Ellis' records are a joke. Best passing QB: Taneyhill. Best overall QB: No contest - Grantz!

[cockyhoskins]

Reminds me of a joke about Todd. Some of you old schoolers probably remember it.

[Lant]

Statistically Tanneyhill was the best QB that we have ever had. He also had that cocky attitude that we need. That is why I think he is the best we have ever had.

That was my exact thought:clap:

[morgan n' 7]

:football: I went with Taneyhill, but I almost went with Ellis. Taneyhill had a fight in him that I've never seen in a Gamecock QB. Others may have had it, but Taneyhill exuded it.

[uscjethro]

my first post. here it goes boys. can't agree with the voting thus far on this question, ... Tanneyhill over a Mike Hold. Todd Ellis or Jeff Grantz ??? I guess I remember a time prior to the 90's and Holtz era. Can't agree with you guys on this one.

Mike Hold might not have put up the high flying passing stats, but he was a leader, a general, and one games against far greater obstacles than UCF and Troy.

Jethro

[morgan n' 7]

my first post. here it goes boys. can't agree with the voting thus far on this question, ... Tanneyhill over a Mike Hold. Todd Ellis or Jeff Grantz ??? I guess I remember a time prior to the 90's and Holtz era. Can't agree with you guys on this one.

Mike Hold might not have put up the high flying passing stats, but he was a leader, a general, and one games against far greater obstacles than UCF and Troy.

Jethro You may be right Jethro. Hold and Allen Mitchell were the first QB's I saw at Carolina. I thought they both made some special plays. I've heard the stories of Grantz from my family. If I had some video on him, I've got a feeling he would have been my pick.

[gettcocky]

about Ellis

granted he chunked a buttload of INT'S, and he always seemed to melt under pressure..but at the end of his career he was playing his best ball..too bad he went down with the knee injury in 89. With one offensive system instead of 3 0r 4..and a little patience...he could've been the best ever:kill:

[Mobile Ranger]

That was my exact thought:clap:

He also beat Tennesse, in Tennese! Tanneyhill is the best, hands down.

[Gamecock History]

He also beat Tennesse, in Tennese! Tanneyhill is the best, hands down.

I wish that was true. But actually, we have only beat Tennessee twice, once in 1903 and in 1992, both times in Columbia.

[spur-ier1]

i was surprised to see everybody bashing todd ellis. when i opposed him earlier, i got blasted. where were all the ellis suicide jokes a couple days ago?

[Ol' Bald Coach]

Jeff Grantz... Not a straight drop back passer but could hurt you with his arm as well as his legs. Left it all on the field.

[mpilot0705]

What about good old A1. He's the only USC QB that has actually had any sort of career as a QB at the pro level, granted he is a yearly backup, but he's still among the elite players in the world. Until I looked at the media guide this year I didn't realize he actually had some pretty good humbers here.

[gamecock_fo_life]

i really didnt go by stats for this, heck the qb i voted for never played in a game. but i had to go ahead and vote him because he is my dad. i voted for Mark Florio. he was on the team for the '79-'83 seasons. he was there for the george rogers era. he dressed out a few games but never came into a game, he was mostly on the practice squad. but anyways, i am one of the "other" votes.

[danfus185]

hey! why isn't gordon beckham on there?!

[Cockyalso]

Mike Hold. He was electric and defined the spirit of The Gamecocks! Sure, he wasn't the most talented passer, but he did make some plays!

[cockyhoskins]

hey! why isn't gordon beckham on there?!

I had to leave some people off. It would be hard for anyone to legitimately argue that a lot of the QBs on there are the best ever. It is looking like a three or four man race

[ByrnesRooster06]

My vote goes to Phil Petty, i havent been around for some of those guys(since im 17) but i use to love Tanneyhill, but i also loved Phil Petty, he was a winner at South Carolina and helped us with back2back outback bowl w's

[cockyhoskins]

Petty won back to back bowls. That's why I voted him.

[Sea Bass]

Petty to me

[SangareeCrew]

This was a tough one....

I went with Taneyhill, although I really wish I could vote for Petty as well. Both great examples of Gamecock athletics.

I do remember Ellis, but even as an 8 year old I remember the INT's. Taneyhill just electrified the Gamecock base like no other single player has since then....maybe we'll see it again soon!!:cocky:

[NADLO]

Tommy Suggs. 4-0 against Clempson!!

[cockyhoskins]

Good point NADLO. I think that should be a factor in who is the best. I keep mentioning bowl wins for Petty, but how they did against our rival is a big factor too.

[Goofyboy]

The idea of Petty in the top 4 blows my mind. He was completely carried by the defense, although he was a good passer when not pressured. He also served under the worst offensive coordinator I can imagine. He could not make a play when it was needed, had very happy feet under pressure, and was too easily injured. All in all I think he was a pretty good quarterback, but played under a crappy offensive system. WE really don't have a great group to choose from. I liked Tanneyhill's overall performance, even if he made some ill-advised throws. He seemed to play with heart and pizzaz, and it spurred the whole team.

[Dr. Gonzo]

Ellis got his a$$ kicked for 4 years(no Oline), and teams still feared him.

[cht4usc]

Hard to choose but I went with Petty.

[CATBIRD]

Hey Guys, Take it from an Ol Timer. The only reason some of you list Tannyhill, Ellis or Petty is that you never saw Jeff Grantz play. It's the truth. It would be like in the RB poll where they listed George Rogers #1 and everyone else was just voting for #2. I have never seen a more electrifying player put on a USC uniform.

[cht4usc]

i saw Grantz play too,but Petty and the o line he played with made it hard to go against him.

Really liked Bobby Fuller too.

[ValdostaCocky]

ELLIS by far had he not taken a cheap shot in the fight at Miami I think he'd led us to a win

[scgirlinky]

I'm torn between Grantz and Ellis. I've only seen a few highlights of Grantz, but I've heard my Dad proclaim him to be the best QB in USC history on several occasions. On the other hand, my Mom would be SO disappointed if I voted against Ellis since he's a friend of hers. Hmmm...Daddy's a sports fanatic so his choice is probably the more educated one.

[doccock]

I was in school with Tommy and later saw them all play. Was on the 50 when we pole axed Clem and son in 75. Saw Ellis come close against UGA in a shootout and Tannyhill sign the paw.etc.

Not as easy a choice as some may think. It's hard to pick the best ever when your history only goes back 5 years of over a 100 years of FB.

Tommy never lost to Clem and got more mileage out of his talent than anyone except Ryan Brewer. I can't tell you how many times he just willed us down the field for scores. He not only never lost to Clem(1 win was the Biddie game since freshmen weren't eligible then to play varsity), but he was the only QB to lead a conference championship team(there actually was one other but we had to forfeit the title).

Grantz was a guy who not only was the best pure athlete I ever saw play at USC but he made people around him better. Those who think he wasn't a great passer never saw him play. He was accurrate and had great touch. Like many of our good teams though, depth was always a problem.

Ellis was the best pure passer I've ever seen at USC. Those who criticize his "decisions" probably didn't see the beatings he routinely took behind undersized OL's. He was the best player in the country coming out of HS and if that cheap shot artist hadn't ended his career, he was a legitimate choice for the Heisman his senior year.

Tannyhill was a great athlete as well, #2 on the all time passing list. Better athletes around him and more wins would most likely have given him Joe Namath like status at Carolina.

Fuller and Hold only played 2 years and Petty was not the pure athlete that some of the others were.

It came to Grantz and Suggs for me and I chose Grantz.

doc

[Scranton Tiger]

Where is Dan Reeves?

[gotrice?]

I voted Taneyhill based on skill. I was tempted to say Petty due to him having more success but he was more of a game manager than a game changer.

[FL_native]

I am not steeped in Gamecock history but would like to know how Ronnie Bass did when he played there. He was the QB in Remember the Titans who went to USC according to a Google search.
Just curious.

[ColaCock]

I don't see how anyone can argue with Petty...unless you just wanna go with popularity and choose Tanneyhill. Petty won 2 Outback Bowls over the eventual NC. His stats may not have been the greatest and not always pretty but he made it happen...

[ScottFive]

DAN REEVES.

[cockyhoskins]

I am not steeped in Gamecock history but would like to know how Ronnie Bass did when he played there. He was the QB in Remember the Titans who went to USC according to a Google search.
Just curious.

I would put him in the Top 8 or so. He passed for 2,933 in his career, but was an unbelievable runner. He rushed for 200 yards in a game several times.

He also led an unbelievable comeback against Clemson in 1977 that fell just short.

I met him recently. Very, very nice fella who represents the Gamecocks well.

[Dietz]

If I'm not mistaken, Dan Reeves is the only Gamecock to rush and pass for a 1000 yards

[elgincock]

buzz, I didn't vote for Ellis. This is my impression of him. I once heard a joke. It went something like this:



That was floating around for quite awhile. Similar to this cartoon of Quincy Carter:

http://www2.cockytalk.com/uploads/150505034337PMQUINCY1.JPG
Amen to that CH.I was at Grant Field in 1988,the cocks went into that game ranked #8 in the country.....left ATL with a 35 - 0 butt stomping.Ellis was in rare form that day,4 or 5 ints.:rotfl:

[willy]

I would have to pick Danny Reeves.

[ScottFive]

Dan Reeves...Hoskins, you hafta put him up there

[Stillwearingmyjoehat]

Two things:

Why is Bobby Fuller not on the list? Think of what he accomplished with only two years on campus. It's not his fault Sparky The Idiot was too dense to accept bowl bids.

Secondly, you cannot have Mike Hold without Allen Mitchell. Together they went 10-2. By himself Hold went 5-6 . . . just like Mitchell did by himself in '83. The different is that Mitchell brought the 'Cocks back ON THE ROAD from a 21-0 deficit at Duke to win the game.

Did Hold EVER single-handedly engineer such a comeback?

[the camp branch kid]

I voted for Suggs because of his domination of Clemson. I would have Tanneyhill as his close back-up because of how much excitement he brought to the game. Petty would be third because of his reliability and durability, not to mention two bowl victories.

[BlackMagic84]

Again, no question here......Jeff Grantz was "THE" man!


Tanneyhill would be a close 2nd.

[rice~is~nice4]

I said Todd Ellis but i was thinking about Steve T.

[rice~is~nice4]

I said Todd Ellis but i was thinking about Steve T.

[amitch]

Two things:

Why is Bobby Fuller not on the list? Think of what he accomplished with only two years on campus. It's not his fault Sparky The Idiot was too dense to accept bowl bids.

Secondly, you cannot have Mike Hold without Allen Mitchell. Together they went 10-2. By himself Hold went 5-6 . . . just like Mitchell did by himself in '83. The different is that Mitchell brought the 'Cocks back ON THE ROAD from a 21-0 deficit at Duke to win the game.

Did Hold EVER single-handedly engineer such a comeback?

My two favorite players all time! Allen Mitchell had true heart and led the way for many wins during the 84 season. How many old timers here remember his crawling ten yards for a first down against Pitt at W-B? Bobby followed Sparky from App State and did an awesome job for the two years he played.

I picked Jeff Grantz for the obvious reason - he was the best pure athlete at the position.

TRIVIA: What were the shoes that Jeff Grantz wore at W-B on gameday?

[cockyhoskins]

If we had expanded the list to 10 or 12, they would have been in, but let's be realistic. no one can honestly say that either Bobby Fuller or Mitchell is the best QB in USC history. We can all be upset that #8 or #9 has been left off the list, but we have to stop it somewhere. That's why there is an "other" option. If you have a personal favorite, vote for them and tell us why.

[carolinathru&thru]

I'd have to go with ellis first. Petty and taneyhill tied in second. We've had so many quarterbacks that I like, it's hard for me to choose.

[colt19114me]

My two favorite players all time! Allen Mitchell had true heart and led the way for many wins during the 84 season. How many old timers here remember his crawling ten yards for a first down against Pitt at W-B? Bobby followed Sparky from App State and did an awesome job for the two years he played.

I picked Jeff Grantz for the obvious reason - he was the best pure athlete at the position.

TRIVIA: What were the shoes that Jeff Grantz wore at W-B on gameday?

Pony!

[CaptainCrunch]

I was going to vote for either Corey Jenkins, Dondrial Pinkins, Antonio Hefner, Mike Rathe, Bennett Swagert, or Erik Kimrey but I couldn't find them so I just voted for Tanneyhill.

[amitch]

Try agin - think another sport

[Skybo]

Grantz was a good one ! Carlin said "He almost didn't play him because he was lazy in pratices. You had to put him under pressure to see him excel. Mike Hold was my second pick. He could throw the long ball or scramble ! We called him the Magician. He sure broke out of lots of holds.:clap:

[SC Sandlapper]

TRIVIA: What were the shoes that Jeff Grantz wore at W-B on gameday?

P.F. Flyers

[cockyrudy]

I'd have to say Anthony Wright. So I voted "other." In my opinion he shouldn't have been left off that list to begin with. He's the only Gamecock QB in recent history to make a name for himself in the NFL.

[Take-a-Knee]

Petty,s nack for knowing when to simply throw out of bounds and not force a mistake or take a loss is something most NFL QB,s never learn .
Petty was a lifelong Gamecock fan before he ever signed on ..Definitely Top 5

I remember listening to USC football in late 60,s then 70,s . QB Tommy Suggs , Tommy Simmons ( one of my favorite USC RB,s ) and others would crunch on ACC teams with blood and guts old time football . Back then , you could kill all recievers untill the ball was in the air , ... Suggs another top 5 IMO

[KCSuge]

I say Mike Hold. He came in and replaced Allen Mitchell who almost lost the Citadel game in '84 which I attended when I was 12. I know we didn't win the Gator that year but we were a Chris Wade TD drop away from winning that game. Don't forget, he beat Notre Dame at South Bend, made one of the greatest plays is USC history at Pitt and handed the ball to the Fridge when we beat clemson (at that game also, first time clemson lost in the gay orange britches). One more point, he QB'd a season in which we won 10 games, the most in school history, the only year we actually had a chance to win a national championship. You can't overlook that or deny that! Stats aren't everything!

[Cocky Tom]

HEY MAN!! THIS IS CRAP! WHO LEFT OFF DICKEY DEMAISEY???.......oh wait, you said BEST, my bad.

[Scooter2001]

Jeff Grantz, hands down. Different era, I must admit, but he could flat kill you with his arms or legs.

[eaddy1847]

Just wondering who you guys (and ladies CoolCockyChick!) feel is the best Gamecock QB ever. So far, RB is a no brainer with Rogers, and WR would definitely be Sharpe or Rice. But QB is not so definitive. My fave is Taneyhill, although I know many would argue otherwise. Heart goes a long way with me. I also am partial to players that played in the 80s til today as I am only 30. Thoughts?

[Gamecock Rob]

Tanneyhill was the favorite and I would say might be the best because of the Carquest victory. Petty has to be in the conversation because of his last 2 seasons, 17-7. Ellis is also an option because he left as a member of the Hall of Fame with records in all passing areas.

[CoolCockyChick]

Just wondering who you guys (and ladies CoolCockyChick!) feel is the best Gamecock QB ever. So far, RB is a no brainer with Rogers, and WR would definitely be Sharpe or Rice. But QB is not so definitive. My fave is Taneyhill, although I know many would argue otherwise. Heart goes a long way with me. Thoughts?

I loved Taneyhill! But you've got to mention Jeff Grantz. I'm too young to have ever seen him play (in fact, I don't even think I was born yet!) but I've read all great things about him.

Taneyhill was cocky and flamboyant and played with a lot of heart and is certainly a memorable Gamecock QB.

[joshuabatterycreekte]

lil Stevie

[Forkcock]

Nobody comes close to Grantz.

[doccock]

Ronnie Bass was a decent QB but not in Grantz's league. And Chuck, he only had one 200 yard rushing game. It was 1974 against UNC and he had to rush 39 times to do it(the USC record for attempts).

I saw Dan Reeves play and again he was a decent QB but not outstanding and never played on a winning team. Until the 1999 team came along, Reeves was the QB of the worst team in USC history.

Grantz could do it all, run, pass, call his own game if need be.

Tommy Suggs, is the only USC QB to never lose to Clemson. His Biddie team(freshmen) beat them and he was the starter on 3 varsity wins.

If we are judging the best QB by talent alone, these 2 are the best we ever had. Tannyhill is close, then Ellis. IMHO
doc

[Spurd&Fthrd]

Where do you dig up these old threads?

Jeff Grantz
Ron Bass
Steve Tanneyhill
Tommy Suggs

[jaydogg843]

I picked Ellis

[MEGA]

I always liked Taneyhill he brought alot of excitment to the game , however I really liked Petty as a QB, he wasn't a showboat..... flashy QB, he was a very smart and focused QB, he kept his eye on the ball and his recievers at all times !!

[FinchMcCrunkNasty]

petty was one of the greatest QB's ever - just got the ball to his playmakers!!!!

[ra742002]

I went with Petty, maybe b/c I never got the opportunity to see Hold are Grantz. The first QB of my time (born in 84), that I remember was Ellis. I went with Petty, b/c he was a local guy, didn't have any amazing talent around him, just good solid teams, and he made plays. He didn't turn the ball over, and he didn't make mistakes. He gave us a chance to win. He kept the oppossing team off the field, and despite stupid play calling by Skip (ie QB draw), Petty was a solid QB. He also won 2 bowl games, more than all the other QB's combined! hahaha.

[sccock4life]

I say Mike Hold. He came in and replaced Allen Mitchell who almost lost the Citadel game in '84 which I attended when I was 12. I know we didn't win the Gator that year but we were a Chris Wade TD drop away from winning that game. Don't forget, he beat Notre Dame at South Bend, made one of the greatest plays is USC history at Pitt and handed the ball to the Fridge when we beat clemson (at that game also, first time clemson lost in the gay orange britches). One more point, he QB'd a season in which we won 10 games, the most in school history, the only year we actually had a chance to win a national championship. You can't overlook that or deny that! Stats aren't everything!

I have to agree with this. I was around the same age. I remember Hold well. There were some bigtime wins when Hold was at the helm that year. He was one of my all time favorites from Carolina. Behind Hold I would put Petty, Taneyhill, and Ellis. The offense that Ellis ran(run and shoot) put up major yards, but sometimes very few points. Don't get me wrong, I think all of them are excellent qb's.

[Cockadoo]

Not sure if poll is for graduated players or not, I didnt see it stated anywhere.

Out of a list of 8 or 9 how can you leave off the #7 QB on the Gamecock all time list.

The Qb with the highest completion percentage of any Gamecock QB Starter ever.

The Qb with the 4th lowest interception number with at least 200 passes.

The Qb who is tied for 3rd with most TD passes in a game without an interception.

The Qb tied for 2nd with the most bowl game appearances.

The Qb named Blake Mitchell.

I saw Rice was added to the recievers list. So I think it would be appropriate to have Blake on this one, dont you?

[meanspur]

I voted for Jeff Grantzs, he was a do it all quarterback. I almost voted for Mike Hold because He was fun to watch, you would think he was going to be sacked and all of sudden he would come out of it and make a hell of play.But still grantzs was the best pure quarterback that I remember being in a gamecock uniform.

[akn4bkn]

Taneyhill shouldn't even be on the list. This has got to be a joke.