NEW: NCAA Grants Waiver for South Carolina RB Rahsul Faison to Play This Season
The South Carolina Gamecocks received a major boost to their 2025 roster this week, as the NCAA officially approved a waiver granting immediate eligibility to running back Rahsul Faison, according to a report from CBS Sports. Faison, a transfer from Utah State, was one of the most productive running backs in the Mountain West last season, tallying 1,109 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in 2024. His availability gives head coach Shane Beamer and the South Carolina offense a valuable addition as the program looks to make strides in the ultra-competitive SEC.
A Big Win for South Carolina’s Backfield
The waiver decision is significant for a South Carolina team that has been seeking more consistency in its ground game. In 2024, the Gamecocks ranked in the bottom half of the SEC in rushing offense, often relying heavily on the passing attack to generate points. The arrival of Faison, coupled with the return of promising young backs already on the roster, creates a deeper and more versatile backfield rotation.
Beamer has often spoken about the importance of balance on offense, and Faison’s skill set could be the missing piece. At Utah State, the 5-foot-11, 205-pound runner displayed a mix of power between the tackles and breakaway speed in the open field. His ability to carry a heavy workload he surpassed 20 carries in six different games last season should provide South Carolina with a reliable option in key SEC battles.
What Faison Brings to the Table
Faison’s breakout season in 2024 was the culmination of steady development. After limited opportunities earlier in his college career, he emerged as Utah State’s lead back and thrived against both conference and non-conference opponents. His 1,109 rushing yards ranked among the top 30 nationally, and he added 15 receptions for nearly 200 yards, proving himself as a dual-threat contributor.
Analysts describe Faison as a patient runner with strong vision, someone who can set up blocks and cut decisively at the second level. He also brings toughness, consistently fighting for extra yards after contact. That physical style should translate well to the SEC, where running backs are tested weekly against some of the best defenses in college football.
The Waiver Process
While the NCAA has tightened transfer regulations in recent years, waivers are still granted in certain circumstances, particularly for players who have already transferred previously or face unique personal situations. Details of Faison’s waiver request have not been fully disclosed, but CBS Sports confirmed that the governing body’s approval clears him for full participation in 2025 without requiring him to sit out a season.
This decision underscores the evolving nature of college athletics in the transfer portal era. Players moving between programs have become a defining storyline of modern recruiting, and South Carolina is among the programs that have benefited from key additions. For Beamer and his staff, landing a back of Faison’s caliber and securing his eligibility for the upcoming season is a clear win.
Fit Within South Carolina’s Offense
The Gamecocks are entering 2025 with heightened expectations, particularly after strong recruiting classes and steady progress under Beamer’s leadership. With SEC expansion reshaping the conference landscape, the margin for error has grown even slimmer. Adding a proven 1,000-yard rusher gives South Carolina an immediate weapon who can help control the tempo of games.
Offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains now has the flexibility to design packages that maximize Faison’s versatility. Expect the Gamecocks to use him both as a primary ball-carrier and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. His ability to protect the quarterback in pass-blocking situations is another underrated skill that should keep him on the field in high-leverage moments.
For younger backs on the roster, Faison’s presence provides both competition and mentorship. Iron sharpens iron, and practices this fall could showcase a deeper and more battle-tested running back unit than South Carolina has had in years.
Impact on the Season Ahead
The timing of the NCAA’s decision is critical. With fall camp on the horizon, Faison will have the opportunity to fully integrate into the playbook and build chemistry with his offensive line. For South Carolina fans, his debut in garnet and black will be highly anticipated when the Gamecocks open the season.
Beyond statistics, Faison’s addition could have a ripple effect on the team’s overall confidence. Having a player who has proven he can handle 200+ carries in a season gives coaches and teammates alike a sense of stability. In the SEC, where ball control and clock management can decide close games, Faison’s presence could tilt outcomes in South Carolina’s favor.
Looking Forward
As the 2025 season approaches, the Gamecocks find themselves in a stronger position thanks to the NCAA’s decision. Rahsul Faison is not just another transfer he is a proven difference-maker who arrives ready to contribute immediately. For a program striving to rise in the SEC hierarchy, this waiver could be remembered as a pivotal moment.
South Carolina fans will soon get their first glimpse of Faison’s impact on the field. If his Utah State production is any indication, the Gamecocks have landed a running back capable of making headlines all season long.
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