Now that March Madness has come to a close, we turn our focus on college football spring practices and the upcoming season. And the countdown is on in Columbia! In just 11 days, the South Carolina Gamecocks will take the field for their annual Spring Game, and there is plenty of buzz around Shane Beamer's squad this season.
A lot of the offseason talk has been centered around the defensive losses such as Kyle Kennard and Nick Emmanwori, but let's not overlook one of the biggest hits to the offense: the departure of powerhouse running back Rocket Sanders. With Rocket no longer suiting up in garnet and black, there are big shoes to fill at the RB position.
Recently, head coach Shane Beamer gave an optimistic update, emphasizing the depth and development he's seen in spring practice so far. “You’re going to need more than one, more than two—you need more than three,” Beamer said. “And those guys, they’ve all got a good skill set. I like that group a lot.”
Leading the pack is transfer portal pickup, Rahsul Faison. Add in Oscar Adaway III, Bradley Dunn, plus young talents Matthew Fuller and Jawarn Howell, the fight for the position is on. But Beamer made it clear that this unit will be built by committee, and they are not just battling for carries this season. "So there are a lot of guys that are competing, and they’re all trying to find a role on offense." Beamer said.
As the Garnet and Black Spring Game approaches quickly, expect the intensity to keep rising leading up to the start of the season. There is a sandstorm brewing in Columbia, and the competition in the RB room might be one of the most exciting storylines this spring.