In a major move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Brandon Cisse, a standout cornerback from NC State, has announced that he is transferring to the University of South Carolina. The 6-foot, 195-pound defensive back, who started every game he played in during the 2024 season, made the decision to join the Gamecocks after a standout career with the Wolfpack.
Cisse’s Impact at NC State
Brandon Cisse’s decision to commit to South Carolina comes after an impressive tenure at NC State, where he quickly established himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the ACC. His ability to shut down top receivers, combined with his playmaking skills, made him a critical asset to the Wolfpack’s defense. Cisse played in 12 games this season and was a consistent presence on the field, racking up multiple pass breakups, interceptions, and tackles.
His skill set as a physical, aggressive cornerback with great instincts made him a standout. Known for his ability to cover both inside and outside receivers, Cisse’s versatility and athleticism caught the attention of many top programs, ultimately leading to his decision to transfer to South Carolina.
Why South Carolina?
Cisse’s commitment to South Carolina is a huge win for head coach Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks. South Carolina has been steadily building momentum in the SEC, and the addition of Cisse bolsters their defensive backfield significantly. As one of the most sought-after transfers in the 2025 class, Cisse will bring immediate experience and talent to a South Carolina defense that has shown steady improvement in recent seasons.
In his statement, Cisse expressed his excitement about the new chapter of his career. “I’m beyond excited to be joining the South Carolina Gamecocks,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to play in the SEC, and I believe this program is heading in the right direction. I can’t wait to compete at the highest level and help take this defense to new heights.”
What Does This Mean for South Carolina?
The addition of a player like Cisse is a major boost for South Carolina’s defense. With the SEC known for its high-powered offenses, having a lockdown corner who can compete against some of the best wide receivers in the country will be crucial for the Gamecocks’ success moving forward.
Cisse’s experience and leadership will also be invaluable to a South Carolina secondary that is looking to make strides in the competitive SEC landscape. The Gamecocks will be looking for immediate contributions from their new defensive back as they prepare for another challenging season in one of the toughest conferences in college football.
Looking Ahead
Brandon Cisse’s commitment to South Carolina marks a significant step in his football career, and Gamecocks fans are eagerly anticipating his arrival on campus. With a combination of speed, size, and elite coverage skills, Cisse has the potential to become one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC, continuing his development under the guidance of South Carolina’s coaching staff.
For NC State, while the loss of Cisse is certainly a blow to their defensive unit, it opens the door for other players to step up and fill the void left by his departure. As for Cisse, his move to South Carolina has the potential to elevate his career to new heights as he competes at the highest level of college football.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a thrilling one, and with the addition of Brandon Cisse, South Carolina’s defense is poised to make a significant impact in the SEC.