South Carolina Gamecocks Acquired One of College Football’s Top Newcomers

The South Carolina Gamecocks utilized both transfer portal windows following the end of the season to help improve the roster. They specifically acquired mutltiple defensive linemen and EDGE defenders in the portal. However, perhaps their best acquisition came on the other side of the football.

Boaz Stanley, an offensive lineman from Troy, transferred to South Carolina this offseason. The Gamecocks have struggled to protect the quarterback over the last few seasons and he will look to help with that.

ESPN named their top newcomers for each top 25 college football team and Stanley made the list for the Gamecocks.

“The Gamecocks have the talent to break through and reach the College Football Playoff for the first time, and dual-threat quarterback LaNorris Sellers has a very real chance to become the first quarterback drafted following the 2025 season,” ESPN’s Billy Tucker wrote. “But those expectations could come crashing down if South Carolina can’t solidify its foundation from the inside out, which is no sure thing considering the Gamecocks must replace their entire interior starting line from last season. Stanley should be a steadying presence at center. The 6-foot-4, 310-pound Troy transfer arrives with plenty of starting experience, the versatility to kick out to tackle in a pinch and a technically sound play style — he didn’t commit any penalties in 2024.

“In 2024, they allowed 41 sacks, which ranked 128th, in 2023, they allowed 41, in 2022, they allowed 31, which ranked 82nd and in 2021, they allowed 31 again. It’s been a while since the Gamecocks have been able to protect their quarterback consistently. Perhaps Stanley can help change that.

The South Carolina Gamecocks have made a significant acquisition for the 2025 college football season by adding center Boaz Stanley, a standout transfer from Troy University. Stanley is recognized as one of the top newcomers in college football this year, bringing much-needed experience and skill to South Carolina’s offensive line.

Stanley’s arrival addresses a critical need for the Gamecocks, who are aiming to solidify their offensive front to support their dynamic quarterback, LaNorris Sellers. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against Missouri, Kentucky, LSU, Oklahoma, Alabama, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Coastal Carolina, and Clemson, Stanley’s presence is expected to be pivotal in enhancing the team’s offensive performance.

In addition to Stanley, the Gamecocks have bolstered their roster with other key additions:

Donovan Murph: A four-star wide receiver who committed to South Carolina over Clemson and Colorado. Murph brings impressive high school stats with 153 catches for 2,412 yards and 29 touchdowns, and is expected to make an immediate impact.
Donovan Darden: An EDGE rusher from Havelock, NC, and the highest-rated defensive prospect in South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class. Darden is anticipated to contribute significantly to the Gamecocks’ pass rush.

These strategic additions reflect South Carolina’s commitment to strengthening their roster and competing at a higher level in the upcoming season.