South Carolina Football: Way-too-Early Projected 2022 Depth Chart

South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back R.J. Roderick (10) and South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Darius Rush (28) celebrate after a play against North Carolina Tar Heels during the DukeÕs Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on Thursday, December 30, 2021.Jg Mayobowl 123021 032 /

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Running Back

Starter: Christian Beal-Smith

Backup: Juju McDowell

South Carolina is going to be missing their top two running backs from last season and will be looking to find a new lead tailback. The team is going to miss Kevin Harris and ZaQuandre White, but there are some intriguing options that the Gamecocks will have to look to.

The top leading rusher that is returning to Columbia is Juju McDowell, but he only had over 200 yards rushing last season. He did go out on a high note with some explosive plays in the bowl game against North Carolina though and will be battling for the top spot on the depth chart.

The guy I think that can make a push for the starting job is Wake Forest transfer Christian Beal-Smith. Beal-Smith had over 600 yards rushing and seven touchdowns in 2021 on one of the top offenses in the country. He has starting experience and may get the first crack at being the starter.

Keep an eye on Georgia transfer Lovasea Carroll to possibly make an impact, although he was a defensive back at UGA. Marshawn Lloyd had a little over 200 yards rushing and could factor into the competition as well.