South Carolina football has no shortage of storylines early in the 2025 season, but one name has quickly risen above the rest — Vicari Swain. The redshirt sophomore defensive back and special teams ace has cemented himself as one of the most electrifying players in college football after another jaw-dropping performance in the Gamecocks’ 38-10 win over South Carolina State.
Swain single-handedly flipped the game’s momentum on Saturday night. With the offense sputtering, the Bulldogs clinging to a 3-0 lead, and fans restless in the stands, Swain delivered the spark Carolina desperately needed. First, he weaved his way through coverage for a 65-yard punt return touchdown, sending Williams-Brice Stadium into a frenzy. Minutes later, he pounced on a partially blocked punt, racing 42 yards to the end zone for his second score of the quarter.
By halftime, Swain had already matched the program’s single-season record for punt return touchdowns — three — with nearly an entire season left to play.
Head coach Shane Beamer couldn’t hold back his praise. “They’ve created an identity already where people will stay in their seats on fourth down,” Beamer said, highlighting the special teams unit’s game-changing impact.
Swain’s heroics didn’t just shine on the stat sheet; they carried South Carolina through a sluggish start and gave the Gamecocks control. His ability to seize the moment has made him a breakout star, turning what could have been a frustrating night into another win that keeps Carolina unbeaten.
The redshirt sophomore has quickly become a fan favorite, a player who ensures no one leaves their seat when the punt team takes the field. For a Gamecocks squad with lofty expectations, his emergence may prove just as valuable as quarterback LaNorris Sellers’ growing Heisman buzz.
As South Carolina shifts its focus to the SEC opener against Vanderbilt, one thing is certain — Vicari Swain is no longer just a role player. He’s a difference-maker, a game-breaker, and perhaps the most thrilling star in garnet and black.
