Gamecocks Position Preview: Running Backs

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon Wilds

Brandon Wilds was a lightly recruited running back that came to South Carolina as a part of the 2011 recruiting class. He was a three-star recruit according to the 247Sports Composite.

Wilds made a name for himself his freshman season in the absence of Marcus Lattimore due to injury. Wilds had his first 100 yard rushing game in a win over Tennessee, and gained the fans trust quickly. Although his freshman season was up or down, fans got a taste of what was to come from the running back. His freshman season totals were 107 carries for 486 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also caught the ball 15 times for 136 yards.

He’s had some bumps and bruises along the way. In 2012, Wilds redshirted due to an ankle injury. He did not play a large part in the offense in 2013 getting 43 carries for 221 yards and 3 touchdowns. Those were some impressive numbers, nevertheless.

Last season Brandon Wilds backed up Mike Davis. He carried the ball 106 times for 570 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also caught 18 passes for 143 yards and 1 touchdown. Now is his last opportunity to take over a position, and it’s long overdue. The senior has been reliable over his career and is a bruiser with pretty good speed also. Regardless of who wins the starting role, Wilds will get his fair share of carries this season.