Transfer portal prediction for former NC State RB Hollywood Smothers, where the dynamic playmaker could land in 2026
Predicting the landing spot for former NC State running back Hollywood Smothers after he entered the transfer portal.
In the wonderful world of the transfer portal and NIL, it is harder and harder for programs to keep their top talent each offseason. We saw several examples of that this week in preparation for the transfer portal opening on Jan. 2. That includes former NC State star running back Daylan “Hollywood” Smothers, who announced he planned to enter.
Smothers is coming off a breakout 2025 season with the Wolfpack after being a key rotational piece in the backfield previously. In 11 games as a redshirt sophomore, Smothers ran for 939 yards and six touchdowns, averaging a healthy 5.9 yards per carry. He also hauled in another 37 receptions for 189 yards and a score as a receiver as well. The 5-11, 195-pound runner promises to be one of the most heavily pursued running backs in the portal this offseason.
Hollywood Smothers’ career background
The Charlotte (N.C.) West standout was originally a member of the 2023 recruiting class for the Oklahoma Sooners. There were split opinions of the North Carolina native coming out of high school, with some recruiting platforms rating him as a four-star player, while others saw him as a three-star caliber recruit. On the 247 Sports Composite ranking, Smothers ended up rated as a four-star, the No. 379 overall player, the No. 26 running back, and the No. 14 player from the state of North Carolina in the 2023 class.
At the time, the Sooners beat out a long list of impressive suitors for the talented runner. Some of the other teams that offered him included Alabama, Ohio State, Penn State, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Michigan, Miami, Florida State, South Carolina, Louisville, Arkansas, NC State, Boston College, Michigan State, Maryland, Syracuse, Vanderbilt, and West Virginia, among many others.
Smothers spent the 2023 season with the Sooners before transferring to NC State. He has rushed for 1,552 yards and 12 touchdowns during his career so far.
Best fits for Hollywood Smothers
It wouldn’t be overly shocking if Oklahoma at least checked in with Smothers, given their past relationship, but I am not sure there will be much interest now. Clemson, however, would be an interesting option for Smothers. With Adam Randall heading off to the NFL, there is clearly a need in the running back room. Smothers would fit in perfectly.
South Carolina could be another school that makes some sense for Smothers, especially if he wants to remain somewhat close to home. Rahsul Faison is also leaving for the NFL, which means the Gamecocks will need to reload significantly. South Carolina also has a good bit of money to spend. That could quite possibly put them over the top.
Let me make this clear: The portal process is fluid, and it doesn’t officially open until Jan. 2. This is merely an early prediction based on some information I have, while also reading between the lines. While I don’t think Notre Dame needs to go to the portal with Aneyas Williams returning, I do believe they will still pursue the position. Head coach Marcus Freeman has tended to value players that he has seen in person, like Smothers.
Prediction: Notre Dame
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