Famed former South Carolina quarterback Steve Taneyhill died Monday morning, the school announced. He was 52 years old. The former Gamecocks signal-caller died in hospice care, per the Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office, as reported by Fox Carolina.
The University of South Carolina is mourning the loss of their beloved alumnus, making a post on X letting everyone know that their ‘thoughts are with [Taneyhill’s] loved ones.’
Taneyhill was under center for the Gamecocks between 1992-1995, rocking his signature mullet and swagger that made him a fan favorite. Taneyhill remains the school’s all-time leader in passing touchdowns and completions. He is second all-time in passing yards.
His tenure in Columbia was remarkable, including being named Sports Illustrated’s freshman of the year in 1992 and leading the Gamecocks to a victory in the 1995 Carquest Bowl, the university’s first-ever bowl win.
Taneyhill’s post-playing career
After finishing up at South Carolina, Taneyhill transitioned to coaching, where he experienced exceptional success. He won three straight South Carolina state championships with Chesterfield High School between 2007 and 2009. He also won state titles as the head coach of the eight-man team at Cambridge Academy in Greenwood.
Outside of coaching, Taneyhill also owned two bars in Columbia — Group Therapy and CB 18. He also owned multiple businesses in Spartanburg.
Is Taneyhill in the South Carolina Athletics Hall of Fame?
Taneyhill was inducted into the Gamecocks’ Hall of Fame in 2006 alongside fellow Gamecock football legend Willie Scott and several others.
Taneyhill’s signature moments
Taneyhill’s most iconic moment was undoubtedly when he pretended to sign the Clemson tiger paw at midfield after a big win at Clemson in 1992. Taneyhill was just 19 years old at the time, but fed off the energy of the fans and gave fans one of the most iconic pictures in South Carolina football history, his arms stretched out in victory.
Taneyhill’s memorable home run swing celebration after throwing touchdown passes also remains one of the most iconic celebrations of all time.