Isaiah Augustave Commits to South Carolina: Former Colorado and Arkansas Running Back Brings Power and Production to Gamecocks’ Backfield

Shane Beamer just scored a significant win in the transfer portal, and South Carolina’s offense might be the biggest beneficiary. Former Colorado and Arkansas running back Isaiah Augustave has officially committed to the Gamecocks, giving Beamer and offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains a proven, powerful addition to the backfield ahead of the 2025 season. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound bruiser has experience at both the SEC and Big 12 levels, and his blend of size, strength, and speed make him an immediate candidate to earn carries in Columbia.

Augustave comes to South Carolina with two years of eligibility remaining and a clear hunger to make an impact. His journey through college football has already exposed him to multiple offensive systems and tough conference competition, and now he lands in a Gamecocks program that is hungry to turn the corner in the SEC East. Whether it was showing flashes as a freshman at Arkansas or grinding out tough yards in Boulder with the Buffaloes, Augustave has demonstrated an ability to produce when given the opportunity.

In 2023, as a true freshman at Arkansas, Augustave carried the ball 35 times for 202 yards and one touchdown. Those numbers may not leap off the page at first glance, but what stands out is his average of nearly six yards per carry in the always-physical Southeastern Conference. That performance hinted at what he could do with a bigger role, and it didn’t take long before he found that chance elsewhere.

Transferring to Colorado ahead of the 2024 season, Augustave joined Deion Sanders’ Buffaloes team with the hope of earning more consistent playing time. He did just that, tallying 85 carries for 384 rushing yards and four touchdowns. He also added 11 receptions for 62 yards as a pass catcher out of the backfield. While Colorado’s offense had its ups and downs, especially along the offensive line, Augustave was a bright spot. He averaged 4.5 yards per carry in a Power Five league and handled a heavier workload while showing improved vision and physicality. His season totals of 446 all-purpose yards and five total touchdowns proved he could contribute as both a runner and a receiver.

Across his career to date, Augustave has totaled 120 carries for 586 yards and five touchdowns, along with 11 receptions for 62 yards. That comes out to a career average of 4.6 yards per carry. Those numbers come against a schedule loaded with some of the nation’s best defenses—first in the SEC, then the Big 12. That experience against elite competition will serve him well as he transitions back to the Southeastern Conference with South Carolina.

More than just a numbers guy, Augustave’s playing style is what truly excites Gamecock fans. At 6’2″, he brings a physical presence that can wear down defenses over four quarters. But he isn’t just a between-the-tackles grinder—he has enough agility to bounce runs outside when needed and shows impressive balance through contact. His ability to move the chains, pick up tough yards in short-yardage situations, and stay on the field for all three downs makes him a valuable chess piece for Loggains’ offense.

South Carolina’s running back room was already deep, but it lacked a player with Augustave’s combination of power and production at the Power Five level. His arrival changes that immediately. He joins a group that includes Rahsul Faison—who is awaiting NCAA clearance—along with Oscar Adaway, Jawarn Howell, Matthew Fuller, and Bradley Dunn. While there is talent across the board, Augustave arrives with the most career carries and the most proven track record among the group. That fact alone could elevate him to the top of the rotation if he performs well in fall camp.

It’s also worth noting that Beamer and his staff have emphasized toughness, leadership, and consistency as pillars of their program. Augustave brings all three. Sources close to the Colorado program praised his work ethic and maturity, particularly as the team weathered injuries and offensive challenges last season. His experience in different locker rooms and under high-profile coaching staffs also means he won’t be overwhelmed by expectations or the spotlight that comes with playing in the SEC.

As South Carolina looks to bounce back from a frustrating 2024 campaign, the addition of an experienced back like Augustave could prove vital. The Gamecocks struggled to maintain offensive balance at times last season, especially when injuries hit the running back group. Quarterback play remained solid, but without a consistent ground game, the offense became too predictable. That’s where a player like Augustave steps in—not just as a fill-in, but as a potential tone-setter. His ability to pick up positive yardage early in downs, extend drives, and help control the tempo of games could be the missing link to unlocking South Carolina’s offensive ceiling.

South Carolina fans will also appreciate the context of this move. The SEC arms race is very real, and roster movement in the age of the transfer portal has made spring and summer additions critical for any team looking to compete. Beamer landing a player with SEC roots who has already proven himself at multiple Power Five programs is a savvy piece of roster management—and a statement about the program’s appeal. In recent years, the Gamecocks have shown they can win battles in the portal, and Augustave is the latest example.

Of course, expectations come with the territory. Gamecock fans are already buzzing about what Augustave can bring, and rightfully so. But the coaching staff will be careful not to put everything on his shoulders. The idea is to build a complementary backfield, one that mixes power, speed, and versatility. Augustave fits that vision. He doesn’t need to carry the ball 25 times a game to be effective. Even with 10-15 quality touches per contest, his presence can keep defenses honest and allow the Gamecocks’ passing game to flourish.

Augustave will also benefit from South Carolina’s offseason investment in the offensive line. The Gamecocks have made a point to shore up their blocking unit, knowing that without improvement up front, no back can succeed. With a stronger, healthier group paving the way and a play-caller in Loggains who knows how to get his backs involved creatively, Augustave could be stepping into the best situation of his college career.

There’s still work to be done. Summer workouts, preseason camp, and early-season matchups will test the depth and cohesion of the running back unit. But one thing is certain—Isaiah Augustave brings proven production, veteran experience, and a physical presence that will elevate the Gamecocks offense this fall. In a conference where every inch matters and every yard is earned, having a back like Augustave could be the difference between a long season and a breakthrough year.

South Carolina needed a player who could come in and help right away. They got one. Now it’s time to see how far Isaiah Augustave can carry them.