South Carolina has officially moved on from running backs coach Marquel Blackwell, a move first confirmed by GamecockCentral.com.
Blackwell is now the third offensive assistant dismissed by Shane Beamer during the 2025 campaign, joining former offensive line coach Lonnie Teasley and ex-offensive coordinator Mike Shula, who were let go earlier in the season.
The Gamecocks wrapped up the year with one of the nation’s least productive rushing attacks, finishing 118th in the country and averaging just a little over 111 rushing yards per game.
Adding to the long-term concerns, South Carolina hasn’t signed a high school running back in the last two recruiting cycles. Although Blackwell secured a pledge from four-star Florida product Amari Thomas, the tailback ultimately flipped back to Florida State ahead of the early signing period.
Blackwell, who replaced Montario Hardesty following the 2023 season, spent only one year in Columbia after a brief stop at Texas A&M. Before entering the college ranks, the former USF quarterback launched his coaching career at Freedom High School in Tampa. His résumé includes roles at South Florida, Western Kentucky, Toledo, West Virginia, Houston, and Ole Miss.
With Blackwell’s departure, South Carolina now faces three major vacancies on the offensive staff heading into the 2026 season: offensive coordinator, offensive line coach, and running backs coach.
