Rahsul Faison Finally Hits the Practice Field—After NCAA Limbo and Last-Minute Waiver
After a confusing and unexpected delay, South Carolina running back Rahsul Faison finally participated in preseason practice on Saturday, marking his first appearance of fall camp.
Faison, a Utah State transfer, is still awaiting an official NCAA ruling on his waiver request for a rare seventh year of eligibility. But while the ruling on his eligibility to play remains pending, no one—including head coach Shane Beamer—anticipated that Faison would be sidelined from practice entirely.
“Technically, without an NCAA ruling, he’s out of eligibility,” a university source told The State. That clarification came after Faison was a no-show on Friday, the Gamecocks’ first day of camp. Caught off guard, South Carolina quickly filed an emergency waiver with the NCAA just to get Faison cleared for practice.
To the surprise of many, the NCAA responded swiftly. Faison’s attorney, Darren Heitner, confirmed Friday afternoon that the waiver was approved. “The NCAA acted quickly — for maybe the first time ever — and granted Faison’s waiver… to practice,” Heitner said.
With that green light, Faison was back in action Saturday, joining the running backs during position drills and also taking reps in kickoff return formations. His presence was a welcome sight, considering the uncertainty surrounding his situation.
Camp Notes from Saturday’s Practice:
- Vandrevius Jacobs was seen working off to the side during drills, reportedly undergoing rehab. Details about his condition were not disclosed.
- Quarterbacks focused on QB-center exchange drills during the special teams period.
- Special Teams shifted their emphasis from field goal and PAT block schemes (Friday’s focus) to return coverage on Saturday.
- Stephen Garcia, former South Carolina quarterback legend, was spotted at practice, observing the day’s activities.
- The Gamecocks will host two more open practices for media viewing: Friday, August 8, and Sunday, August 10.
Faison’s story is still unfolding, but Saturday’s practice offered a small win for both him and the Gamecocks as they prepare for the 2025 season.
