Just 78 days after South Carolina’s 2024 season concluded with a loss to Illinois in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, the Gamecocks officially began preparations for the 2025 season by holding their first spring practice on Wednesday. Here are a few notable observations: Rahsul Faison, a transfer running back from Utah State, looked incredibly strong, especially compared to the other running backs. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 218 pounds, Faison is the tallest running back on the roster and appeared to be in great physical shape. While he still has some NCAA requirements to fulfill before he can play, it’s difficult not to feel excited about his potential.
Cornerback Vicari Swain was absent from practice on Wednesday. According to a USC spokesperson, Swain is dealing with academic issues and will be out for an indefinite period, which is a setback for the Gamecocks since Swain played in all 13 games last year and is competing for a starting position.
During quarterback drills, the order of players was LaNorris Sellers, Dante Reno, and Air Noland. While Noland, the Ohio State transfer, is expected to eventually become the backup quarterback, it seems the coaching staff is prioritizing Reno, a redshirt freshman, for now as a returner. Luke Doty, who is listed as an athlete on USC’s roster, was seen practicing kick returns while wearing a green jersey, which is typically reserved for quarterbacks. It will be interesting to see if South Carolina decides to add him to the quarterback depth chart.
Several recruits were present at practice on Wednesday, with South Carolina’s director of player personnel, Darren Uscher, staying close to Jaiden Bryant, a 6-foot-4, 245-pound edge rusher from Irmo High. Although Bryant is part of the Class of 2027, he already holds offers from South Carolina, North Carolina, Penn State, Florida State, and others. Tight end Brady Hunt appeared to be a full participant in practice after missing the last three games of the 2024 season due to a leg injury, which is excellent news for South Carolina, especially since coach Shane Beamer announced that tight end Michael Smith will miss the entirety of spring ball with an injury.
With William Joyce not present, the two kickers at practice were redshirt sophomore Peyton Argent and Mason Love, who is likely to be the team’s starting punter. The two were alternating between kicking and holding during the session. Two players, defensive back Emory Floyd and tight end Maurice Brown, were seen wearing blue, non-contact jerseys.
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