Torricelli Simpkins III was driven by a desire for more after a standout career at North Carolina Central. In 2022, the Charlotte native was named a first-team all-conference player as a redshirt sophomore. He followed up with first-team HBCU All-American honors and the conference Offensive Lineman of the Year award in 2023. However, he still sought new challenges, leading him to enter the transfer portal and commit to South Carolina after last season.
Arriving at USC in January, Simpkins was determined to prove himself at a higher level. “Coming from an HBCU like North Carolina Central, I knew I had to carry a chip on my shoulder and demonstrate that I can compete at this level,” Simpkins said. “There was skepticism about my ability to play in the SEC. My goal was to show I could compete against anyone and prove myself to doubters.”
Although Simpkins’ signing didn’t garner as much attention as other transfers, such as running back Rocket Sanders from Arkansas, offensive line coach Lonnie Teasley is highly impressed. “It’s his mindset and approach to practice and training that stand out,” Teasley said. “He’s energetic and passionate, which has caught people’s attention. We expect him to contribute significantly. He’s made a strong impression and positioned himself to be a key player.”
The South Carolina offensive line faced criticism last season for its struggles with running the ball and protecting quarterback Spencer Rattler. Despite most of the previous season’s starters returning, Simpkins quickly made an impact, earning the Gamecock Toughness Award in the spring. “Winning that toughness award was very meaningful to me,” Simpkins said with a smile.
Simpkins, who redshirted in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, has been a college starter for three years. He noted that the transition from an HBCU to the SEC involved significant changes, particularly in terms of training and facilities. The 6-foot-5, 319-pound lineman has made noticeable improvements in his physique, reducing his body fat from 27% to 23% in just eight months. “The resources here are incredible,” he said. “They provide everything needed for success. I’m gaining muscle mass and improving my mobility and strength.”
