COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mike Shula is enthusiastic about rejoining the Southeastern Conference as the offensive coordinator for South Carolina, nearly twenty years after he was let go as the head coach at Alabama.
There is no resentment about his past; instead, he feels a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.
“I have learned from every experience over the years, so it’s important to use those lessons to improve,” said Shula, who led Alabama from 2003 to 2006. “While the past is unchangeable, it’s vital to grow from it.”
This mentality is what he plans to bring to South Carolina, where he was appointed as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach after working as an analyst for the team’s revitalized offense since March.
Shane Beamer, the head coach of the 14th-ranked Gamecocks, stated that he had Shula in mind for the role shortly after former coordinator Dowell Loggains took a position as head coach at Appalachian State earlier in the month. Beamer explored Shula’s qualifications as an offensive coordinator through discussions with former players and colleagues from Shula’s time at the Carolina Panthers, where he was pivotal in leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2015.
Being an analyst with South Carolina this season added to Shula’s credibility, according to Beamer. “This role has probably contributed to his growth as a coach,” he noted. “He brings significant experience from both the NFL and college football, and I am confident he will enhance the skill of our quarterbacks, improve our offense, and elevate our program overall.”
At 59, Shula feels invigorated by his experience at South Carolina. “It has provided a boost of energy for me,” he expressed regarding his tenure with the Gamecocks.
Shula, whose father, Don Shula, holds the record for the most wins in NFL coaching history, began his coaching career with Alabama in 2003, achieving a 10-2 record by his third season. However, after a disappointing 6-6 record in the following year, the program decided to move in a different direction. Subsequent NCAA violations led to the vacating of 21 victories, 16 during Shula’s tenure, after which he spent 2007-2023 coaching in the NFL.
When Loggains reached out to Shula about the analyst position, he recognized it as an exciting opportunity to return to the SEC. Under Shula’s influence, South Carolina significantly improved its scoring from 13th in the SEC last season to sixth this year. The team’s ground game also went from averaging 118.8 rushing yards per game last year to leading the league with an impressive 232 rushing yards per game this fall.
Shula collaborated with Loggains and first-year starting quarterback LaNorris Sellers, guiding the Gamecocks through a successful streak of six consecutive wins—four against ranked teams. After starting the season 3-3, Sellers’ passing statistics transitioned from 793 yards with four touchdowns and four interceptions to a remarkable 1,481 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and just three interceptions during the winning stretch.
Sellers, a 6-foot-3 redshirt freshman, is already receiving attention for the 2025 Heisman Trophy as he demonstrates significant potential. Shula noted that while Sellers may not be the most vocal player on the field, he possesses a natural ability to draw teammates in with his leadership qualities. “Our relationship built since March should be beneficial for us,” Shula said.
The Gamecocks are set to compete in the Citrus Bowl on December 31 against No. 21 Illinois (9-3). Beamer indicated that it remains uncertain whether Shula will oversee the offense during the bowl game or implement his strategies afterward.
Shula’s primary aim is straightforward for South Carolina’s offensive unit. “Our goal is to maintain the level of performance we achieved this past season,” he stated. “That in itself poses its own challenges.”
The Gamecocks’ offensive success was supported by a strong defense led by SEC sacks leader Kyle Kennard, who received the Nagurski Award as the nation’s top defender. However, much of that defensive cohort will not return next season.
Despite these changes, Shula is focused on the players and coaches within his offensive unit. “It’s essential for us to concentrate on our responsibilities and not be preoccupied with what’s happening defensively,” he added.