The Gamecocks are still in wait-and-see mode when it comes to the eligibility status of running back Rahsul Faison, and the frustration is getting bigger.
During an interview on the Postgame Show with Jay Philips and Elijah Campbell on 107.5 The Game, South Carolina athletics director Jeremiah Donati confirmed that there is still no final word on Faison, but the staff remains hopeful.
“We don't have a final decision yet. I think I've seen cases, or I've seen circumstances that were nearly not as extreme as his that were approved,” Donati said. “I think that's why you can sense the frustration in Coach Beamer's voice and even in mine. We still remain optimistic. The young man loves it here, is dying to play, he's a great young man and we're all really excited about him being here.”
The most frustrating part has been the hurry-up-and-wait game, as Donati stated that every required document was submitted nearly six months ago, and from where they are sitting, the decision should have been pretty cut and dry.
“He certainly deserves the chance and when you look at the circumstances surrounding his case, the situation, this is kind of an easy one to be honest. I think that's—you can hear the fact the frustration in Shane's voice—we thought this was going to be done months ago. And so, we're going to keep fighting a good fight.”
As reported a few weeks ago, Faison and the Gamecocks also have some legal help in their corner as well.
“You mentioned that he's got an attorney behind him who knows the game and knows this stuff pretty well, and so we feel good about that, and we remain optimistic. But just frustrated for him. He's a young man that came here and wants to continue his career in a Gamecock uniform. And so, to kind of be in this limbo is hard. It's hard for young people and so I hope for his sake, for all of our sakes, that we can come to a good decision here as soon as possible.”
When asked about the timeline to get things finalized, Donati explained that they do have some time remaining, "We got another month or so to get to the bottom of this.”
Gamecock Nation, coaches and fans alike, are ready to see him go to work on the field. But for now, all eyes are on the NCAA to do what should have already been done.