MSU’s Bhonapha on How RBs Can Separate Themselves, Plus South Carolina’s 2026 Recruiting Class Status
By Brooks Austin | 5 Hours Ago
Columbia, South Carolina – November 23, 2024
The South Carolina Gamecocks took the field at Williams–Brice Stadium with head coach Shane Beamer leading the way, preparing for yet another high-energy matchup against the Wofford Terriers. As the season pushes toward its final stretch, the Gamecocks’ coaching staff isn’t just focused on the games at hand — their attention is also on shaping the future, particularly when it comes to the 2026 recruiting class.
With less than four months before the early National Signing Day, South Carolina appears well-positioned to lock down another impressive group of incoming talent. The program’s recruiting progress reflects not just the team’s on-field performance but also the sustained momentum Beamer has built since taking over the program.
Shane Beamer’s Contract Extension and Program Growth
Earlier this offseason, South Carolina’s administration sent a clear message of confidence by extending Shane Beamer’s contract through the 2030 season. The decision was rooted in both the team’s competitive record and the strategic strides made in recruitment.
When Beamer arrived in Columbia, he inherited a program struggling below the .500 mark. Since then, he has managed to win approximately 57% of his games, signaling a tangible upward trajectory. While victories on the field matter, many within the program believe Beamer’s greatest strength lies in his ability to win over recruits and build a culture that excites both players and fans.
This combination of competitive improvement and recruiting success has created optimism around the team’s long-term potential — and the 2026 class is shaping up to be one of Beamer’s most influential yet.
A Look at the 2026 South Carolina Recruiting Class
The Gamecocks’ 2026 recruiting cycle already has a strong framework. With 15 verbal commitments in place, the class currently sits at No. 19 in the national consensus rankings. Even more encouraging is the quality of those commitments — six players rank within the national Top 200, and the program has successfully retained much of its local talent, with 10 of the 16 commits coming from North or South Carolina.
The Quarterback Centerpiece – Landon Duckworth
Perhaps the crown jewel of this class is quarterback Landon Duckworth, ranked as the No. 6 quarterback nationally. Duckworth isn’t just a name with star power; he’s an elite multi-sport athlete whose game mirrors some of the program’s current standouts.
From a stylistic standpoint, Duckworth has similarities to LaNorris Sellers, the dynamic Gamecock quarterback. While Sellers has a larger frame at 245 pounds compared to Duckworth’s 200, Duckworth compensates with exceptional speed and agility. A standout basketball player as well, his athletic versatility is one of the reasons South Carolina pursued him so aggressively.
Beyond his physical tools, Duckworth’s development as a passer has been impressive. His invitation to the Elite 11 quarterback competition in Los Angeles this summer — a prestigious showcase of the nation’s best high school signal callers — reinforced his standing as one of the premier athletes in the 2026 class.
The Big Addition at Running Back – Amari Thomas
The most recent commitment to join South Carolina’s 2026 class is running back Amari Thomas from Florida. His recruitment was hotly contested, with Florida State making a strong push, but ultimately Thomas chose the Gamecocks.
For the program, his addition is more than just another name on the commitment list — it addresses a critical position of need. Currently, South Carolina’s backfield is in a transitional phase. Veteran running back Rashul Faison is still in the process of appealing for an additional year of NCAA eligibility, but regardless of that outcome, the running back position will be a wide-open competition heading into the future.
Thomas brings explosiveness, vision, and breakaway speed — tools that could make him an instant-impact player. His arrival signals the coaching staff’s commitment to retooling the running game with athletes who can thrive in the SEC’s high-paced, physical environment.
Recruiting Success Tied to Coaching Philosophy
Shane Beamer’s approach to recruiting is grounded in building relationships and identifying players who fit not just the scheme, but also the team culture. His staff’s focus on regional recruiting has helped South Carolina secure top talent from the Carolinas while also expanding their reach into football-rich states like Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.
In the case of Duckworth and Thomas, South Carolina didn’t just recruit talented players — they pursued athletes who have leadership potential and the competitive mindset to elevate the program.
This mirrors what Mississippi State running backs coach John Bhonapha has emphasized when discussing how running backs — and players in general — can separate themselves from the competition. According to Bhonapha, it’s not just about raw athleticism; it’s about demonstrating consistency, adaptability, and the ability to thrive under pressure. Players who master the mental side of the game — learning playbooks, adapting to in-game adjustments, and responding to adversity — tend to stand out the most.
Position-by-Position Outlook for the Class of 2026
While quarterback and running back are drawing much of the attention, the Gamecocks’ recruiting class is balanced across multiple positions:
- Quarterback: Led by Duckworth, who could be the face of the offense in future seasons.
- Running Back: Amari Thomas adds a much-needed weapon, with the possibility of more additions before signing day.
- Wide Receiver & Tight End: The Gamecocks have multiple pass-catching prospects committed, aiming to complement Duckworth’s skill set.
- Offensive Line: Several linemen from the Carolinas are part of the class, ensuring protection and depth for years to come.
- Defense: The class includes defensive backs and pass rushers who could step into roles early in their college careers.
Looking Ahead to Signing Day
With the early signing period less than four months away, South Carolina’s recruiting team is in full push mode. While the Gamecocks are unlikely to overtake perennial recruiting powerhouses like Georgia or Alabama in the rankings, the focus is on building a class that can fill key roster gaps and sustain long-term competitiveness in the SEC.
Expect South Carolina to continue targeting high-upside athletes who can contribute immediately, particularly in the trenches and skill positions. The program’s success in securing Duckworth and Thomas shows they can win battles against top programs, and closing strong will be critical in cementing this class as one of Beamer’s best.
The Bigger Picture for South Carolina Football
Recruiting is only part of the equation. To truly elevate the program, South Carolina will need to convert these promising recruits into consistent on-field production. That’s where the lessons from coaches like Bhonapha resonate — success in college football often comes down to preparation, mental discipline, and the willingness to outwork the competition.
With a proven recruiter in Shane Beamer and a 2026 class full of potential playmakers, the Gamecocks are setting the stage for the next chapter in their football story. If these young athletes can match their talent with determination, South Carolina could be in position to challenge the SEC’s elite in the seasons ahead.
For now, all eyes remain on the recruiting trail, where the Gamecocks are proving once again that they can attract — and keep — some of the best young football talent in the country.
