Sophomore quarterback Kenny Hill made Texas A&M fans forget all about former Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel on Thursday night and introduced them to college football's newest star.
Hill threw for 511 yards and three touchdowns to lead the 21st-ranked Aggies to a stunning 52-28 win over No. 9 South Carolina in the season and SEC opener for both teams.
Many felt that the early departure of Manziel, a first round draft pick of the Cleveland Browns, as well as top 10 picks in offensive tackle Jake Matthews and wide receiver Mike Evans, would mean a down year for Texas A&M (1-0, 1-0 SEC).
No one told the Aggies' new QB.
Hill completed 44-of-60 passes and looked every bit the part in his first collegiate start. His 60 pass attempts were four more than Manziel's career- high 56, set as a freshman against LSU.
Tra Carson added three rushing touchdowns for the Aggies, who put an end to South Carolina's 18-game home win streak. Malcome Kennedy had a game-high 14 receptions for 137 yards.
Dylan Thompson put up big numbers for South Carolina (0-1, 0-1) in defeat, throwing for 366 yards and four touchdowns with an interception. Nick Jones was his primary target, making five catches for 113 yards and two scores.
[SportsNetwork.com]
