Cutter Woods

Introduction: The 6’3”, 205-pound 3 star signal-caller from Westside High School in Anderson, South Carolina, Woods has already etched his name into the history books. As a junior, he led the Rams to a 14-1 record and their first Class AAAA state championship since 1969, a feat that earned him the title of 2023 MaxPreps South Carolina Player of the Year (won it in 2024 as well). That season, Woods completed an impressive 69.4% of his passes for 3,915 yards, tossing 42 touchdowns to just 8 interceptions, while also adding 345 rushing yards and 5 scores on the ground. His ability to deliver in clutch moments was on full display during the state title game, where he orchestrated a game-winning 78-yard touchdown drive in the final minutes. Demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure and delivering clutch performances on the biggest stages. Finishing his storied career with over 11,000 yards, 120 touchdowns. He steadily got better each and every season before truly bursting onto the scene as a Junior. Friends already with plenty of the in-state commits including Mazeo Bennett as their connection goes way back to their days playing together in 12U football. He's going to come in with the opportunity to develop at his own pace. South Carolina’s quarterback room is deep and talented, with LaNorris Sellers and Ohio State transfer Air Noland on the roster. This depth allows Woods to come in, learn the system, and refine his skills without the pressure of being thrust into the spotlight immediately. He brings with him not only a championship pedigree but also the poise, leadership, and intangibles that make him a perfect fit for the next level.

Recruiting: Originally committed to Wake Forest in April 2024, Woods’ journey to South Carolina was anything but a straight line. The Gamecocks didn’t extend an offer until after his pledge to the Demon Deacons, but once they entered the fray, the tide began to turn in a big way. The turning point came during a 7-on-7 camp on South Carolina’s practice field in the summer of 2024. Woods, already a proven winner, used the camp as an opportunity to showcase his growth and refinement as a quarterback. The Gamecocks’ coaching staff was in attendance, and boy did he put on a show. What stood out most to the staff was the improvement they saw in Woods from the year before. At a previous individual camp, Woods had impressed but hadn’t quite done enough to earn an offer. This time, however, he left no doubt. The staff had decided they wouldn’t offer unless he blew them away and blew them away he did. His improved mechanics, decision making, and command of the field were impossible to ignore. Just days after the camp, the Gamecocks extended an offer, signaling their belief in Woods’ potential at the next level. Woods wasted no time scheduling an official visit to Columbia, a clear sign that the Gamecocks had piqued his interest. The allure of playing for his home state proved too strong. Woods officially flipped his commitment to South Carolina on June 24, 2024. “Playing for your home state is something to be proud of and excited for. After the visit, after talking it over with my family, we felt like it was the right choice to make.” Woods said. The camaraderie among the in-state commits, many of whom had competed against or alongside each other in high school, created a sense of unity and shared purpose that made South Carolina feel like home.

Strength and Skills: He’s not gonna blow you away with the arm talent of Spencer Rattler or the physical specimen of Lanorris Sellers but this kid can ball. The foundation of his game is elite accuracy. He’s a quarterback who delivers the ball with pinpoint precision, often placing it where only his receiver can make a play. His junior and senior seasons at Westside High School were a masterclass in efficiency, as he completed 69.4% and 68.2% of his passes, respectively. What truly sets Woods apart is his anticipation. He doesn’t just throw to open receivers—he throws them open. His ability to read defenses, identify coverage weaknesses, and deliver the ball before the break is advanced for a player his age. While primarily a pocket passer, he’s far from a statue. He has the mobility to extend plays, navigate pressure, and pick up yards with his legs when necessary. His footwork in the pocket is polished, allowing him to step up or slide laterally to avoid rushers while keeping his eyes downfield. He’s not going to rack up 100-yard rushing games, but he’s more than capable of picking up first downs with his legs when the situation calls for it. Woods is also a natural leader, his fiery demeanor and competitive spirit have earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. He has a knack for elevating those around him. There are a couple parts to his game that I would like to see cleaned up. Improving his arm strength which will allow him to make more challenging throws against tighter windows at the collegiate level. Woods is at his best in the short to intermediate passing game. Refining his deep ball accuracy will make him a more complete quarterback and open up the field especially in the type of offense the Gamecocks like to run.