As the South Carolina Gamecocks prepare for the 2025 college football season, running backs coach Marquel Blackwell has his eyes set on one of the most intriguing position battles on the roster: the backfield.
Speaking to reporters during preseason camp, Blackwell expressed cautious optimism about his young, athletic, but largely untested group of running backs, calling them “really talented but unproven.”
A Room Full of Potential
With last season’s top rusher having moved on, the running back room is undergoing a significant transition. Yet Blackwell sees promise in the group’s raw skill, speed, and competitive energy.
“We’ve got a lot of guys who are eager to prove themselves,” Blackwell said. “There’s not one feature back yet, but there’s talent across the board. It’s going to be fun to watch these guys grow and compete.”
Among the names generating buzz:
- Dontavius Braswell – The redshirt freshman is turning heads with his burst and vision. Coaches believe he could be a breakout candidate.
- Matthew Fullwood – A bruising sophomore who brings physicality to the ground game.
- True freshman Jamari Whitlow – A four-star recruit from Georgia, Whitlow has already impressed in limited reps with his agility and football IQ.
The Emphasis on Versatility
Blackwell emphasized that the Gamecocks are looking for more than just a traditional bell-cow back. With offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains emphasizing a more dynamic, up-tempo scheme, pass protection and receiving out of the backfield will be crucial traits.
“It’s not just about who can run the ball,” Blackwell noted. “It’s about who can protect the quarterback, who can catch out of the backfield, and who can execute under pressure. These guys are working hard to show they can do it all.”
Building Through Competition
Rather than naming a starter outright, Blackwell is letting competition drive the depth chart. That approach is creating a sense of urgency among the players, which he believes will pay off by Week 1.
“Iron sharpens iron,” he said. “They’re pushing each other every day, and that’s how you build a reliable backfield. It’s not about experience right now—it’s about preparation and accountability.”
Looking Ahead
The Gamecocks are entering a pivotal year under head coach Shane Beamer, with pressure mounting to take a step forward in the SEC. If South Carolina’s young running backs can live up to their coach’s praise and meet the moment, they could become a surprise strength in the offense.
Until then, Blackwell remains focused—but confident.
“They’ve got a chip on their shoulder,” he said. “And I like that. I’d rather coach a room full of hungry guys than guys who think they’ve already made it.”
