South Carolina continues to stockpile talent through the transfer portal, and the latest addition to Kendal Briles’ offense is a name that should get Gamecock fans intrigued: Christian Clark.
The former Texas running back has announced his commitment to South Carolina after wrapping up a visit to Columbia. At 6-foot, 212 pounds, Clark brings a physical presence to the backfield - and perhaps more importantly, he brings some real upside. After missing his entire freshman year in 2024 due to a torn Achilles, Clark bounced back this past season, appearing in eight games and showing flashes of the player many top programs coveted out of high school.
His breakout moment came on a big stage - the Longhorns’ bowl win over Michigan - where he racked up 105 rushing yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. That kind of performance, especially after a major injury, speaks volumes about both his resilience and his potential to be a difference-maker in the SEC.
Clark was a hot commodity the first time around, too. Alabama, Georgia, Oregon, and Florida State were all in the mix before he originally committed to Texas.
And this time, Alabama reportedly circled back with interest again. That gives you a sense of how highly regarded Clark still is, even after a challenging start to his college career.
With Clark now on board, South Carolina has added its third transfer running back this cycle - and he becomes the 19th overall addition via the portal. For a Gamecocks offense under new coordinator Kendal Briles, who’s known for his up-tempo, spread-based attack, having a stable of versatile backs like Clark could be a game-changer.
But the reinforcements aren’t just coming on offense.
On the defensive side, South Carolina locked in a big-time addition on Thursday night with the commitment of former Tennessee defensive end Caleb Herring. The 6-foot-5, 245-pound edge rusher brings size, experience, and pedigree to the Gamecocks’ front seven.
Herring played in 36 games over three seasons with the Vols, totaling 25 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and five sacks. While those numbers might not jump off the page, his ability to disrupt plays off the edge and his familiarity with SEC competition make him a valuable piece for a defense looking to get more aggressive up front.
And let’s not forget - Herring was once the top-ranked high school player in the state of Tennessee. That upside is still there, and if South Carolina can tap into it, he could become a key contributor in a hurry.
With additions like Clark and Herring, South Carolina is making it clear: they’re not just filling holes - they’re building a roster to compete. The portal era is all about reloading quickly and smartly, and the Gamecocks are doing just that on both sides of the ball.