Running back Sam Williams-Dixon transferred to the SEC program, the South Carolina Gamecocks, this past January after two seasons at the Ohio State Buckeyes. He had been working to carve out a role in the Gamecocks' backfield through winter and spring workouts. That path is now on hold.

The South Carolina athletic department moved quickly. A spokesperson issued a statement to Greenville Online confirming Williams-Dixon's suspension on Sunday, June 14.

"We are aware of the situation, and per athletic department policy, he is suspended indefinitely," the South Carolina athletic department said in a statement.

Williams-Dixon was arrested Saturday, June 13, and booked at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in the early hours of Sunday morning. He is facing multiple charges, including breaking into an automobile, criminal conspiracy, and grand larceny.

As reported by On3, the grand larceny charge involves a value of more than $2,000 but less than $10,000. A hearing has been scheduled for August 28. It is unclear at this time whether Williams-Dixon will remain with the program going forward.

South Carolina opens the 2026 season on September 5 against the Kent State Golden Flashes. Williams-Dixon's future with the team depends entirely on how his legal situation resolves before then.

The running back came to South Carolina as a redshirt junior. He had limited production during his time at Ohio State, totaling just 10 carries for 62 yards across two seasons with the Buckeyes.

The three-star recruit out of Pickerington, Ohio, in the class of 2024, ranked No. 24 overall in the state, appeared in just one game in 2025 before transferring to Columbia.

Williams-Dixon had been competing for carries this spring before the arrest. His status with the program now depends on how the legal process unfolds heading into the fall.

What the Suspension Means for South Carolina's Backfield in 2026

South Carolina already had depth at running back before this situation. LaNorris Sellers, the Gamecocks' dual-threat quarterback, is expected to contribute in the run game as well.

Matt Fuller, who is now in Year 3 with the program, has gained attention after coming up with 260 yards rushing on 72 carries with two touchdowns last year.

Head coach Shane Beamer has frequently spoken about Fuller. So, he is likely to get the starting role over Christian Clark, who transferred from the Texas Longhorns.

Williams-Dixon was competing for a depth role rather than a starting position. Still, losing anybody in the backfield ahead of a season opener against Kent State will create some uncertainty in the room.

Beamer has not made any additional public statements beyond the department's initial response. The program will continue to monitor the legal situation as it develops.

What do you think about this suspension's impact on the team? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by

Farheen Fathima

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar