BREAKING NEWS: Top NC State 6’0″, 195 lb CB Brandon Cisse Commits to South Carolina

In a major development for South Carolina’s football program, the Gamecocks have secured a highly coveted commitment from Brandon Cisse, a standout cornerback from NC State. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 195 pounds, Cisse brings a combination of size, athleticism, and experience that should significantly enhance the Gamecocks’ secondary for the 2025 season. Having started every game he played in at NC State during the previous season, his addition to the South Carolina roster is expected to pay immediate dividends for a defense that is looking to make big strides in the upcoming year.

This commitment is not just a boost in talent; it’s also a signal of the Gamecocks’ growing ambition and competitiveness in the SEC. Cisse’s decision to transfer to South Carolina comes after a series of standout performances at NC State, where he developed into one of the most respected cornerbacks in the ACC. His skills as a physical, hard-hitting corner with great ball skills are a perfect fit for South Carolina’s defense as they look to enhance their ability to match up against some of the most dynamic offenses in the nation.

Brandon Cisse’s Background: A Proven Playmaker

Brandon Cisse arrived at NC State with a reputation as one of the most athletic cornerbacks in the recruiting class. His size and speed quickly translated into strong performances on the field, making him a key contributor to the Wolfpack’s defense. Over the course of his career at NC State, Cisse was known for his ability to lock down receivers, read the quarterback’s eyes, and make crucial plays in coverage. His versatility allowed him to excel in various defensive schemes, and he developed into one of the team’s leaders on defense.

Cisse’s decision to transfer to South Carolina is a direct reflection of the high level of play he has showcased during his time in the ACC. He demonstrated a refined understanding of how to deal with elite wide receivers and the physicality required to succeed in college football’s toughest conference. With his proven track record, it’s no surprise that multiple programs were vying for his services, but it was South Carolina who ultimately won the race.

What Cisse Brings to South Carolina

Cisse’s commitment is a significant win for South Carolina for a number of reasons. First and foremost, his experience at the college level cannot be overstated. He’s played in numerous high-pressure games, showcasing the ability to perform consistently on big stages. The SEC is home to some of the best receivers in the country, and having a cornerback of Cisse’s caliber in the secondary will be invaluable as the Gamecocks seek to compete with the likes of Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.

Some of the key qualities Cisse brings to South Carolina’s defense include:

Physicality and Size: At 6’0″, 195 pounds, Cisse is built like an NFL-caliber cornerback. His physicality allows him to challenge wide receivers at the line of scrimmage, while also being able to hold his own in contested situations. In a conference like the SEC, where receivers often have an advantage in terms of speed and agility, having a cornerback who can match up physically is a huge asset.
Ball Skills: One of Cisse’s most notable attributes is his ball-hawking ability. He has the instincts to break up passes, create turnovers, and make plays in critical moments. In a league where turnovers can be the difference between winning and losing, Cisse’s ability to generate takeaways will be a major benefit to South Carolina’s defense.
Versatility: While Cisse has primarily played cornerback, his size and skill set make him capable of playing in a variety of roles within the secondary. Whether it’s playing on the outside, covering the slot, or providing depth as a safety, Cisse offers a versatile skill set that can help fill any gaps in South Carolina’s defensive scheme.
Leadership: As someone who has started every game for NC State, Cisse is no stranger to being a leader on the field. His experience and maturity will allow him to come in and immediately make an impact as a leader in South Carolina’s defensive backfield. His presence will help bring stability and confidence to a group that is looking to make significant improvements in 2025.

The Impact on South Carolina’s Defense

South Carolina’s defense in 2024 showed flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency at times, especially in the secondary. With Cisse’s addition, the Gamecocks now have a proven player who can anchor the cornerback position. This is particularly important considering the rise of elite quarterbacks and wide receivers in the SEC, many of whom are capable of putting up huge numbers.

The Gamecocks have already made strides in recruiting, and Cisse’s commitment is the latest sign that Coach Shane Beamer is serious about building a championship-contending team. The defensive backfield in 2025 is shaping up to be one of the stronger units on the team, with the addition of Cisse and returning players who have gained valuable experience. This increase in depth and talent in the secondary will help South Carolina go toe-to-toe with some of the toughest offenses in the nation.

One area where Cisse will immediately be expected to contribute is in limiting the explosive plays that have hurt South Carolina in recent seasons. SEC offenses are known for their ability to strike quickly and put up big numbers, and Cisse’s ability to prevent big-yardage gains will be crucial. His presence should also help take pressure off the safeties, allowing the secondary to function more cohesively as a unit.

What This Means for Recruiting

Brandon Cisse’s commitment also represents a significant recruiting win for South Carolina. While the Gamecocks have shown substantial improvement on the recruiting trail in recent years, landing a player with Cisse’s pedigree only reinforces the program’s upward trajectory. His decision to join South Carolina shows that the Gamecocks are a legitimate contender in the SEC and have the ability to attract top-tier talent from other programs.

Cisse’s commitment may also serve as a boost for the rest of South Carolina’s recruiting efforts. High-profile recruits are likely to take notice of a program that is building a solid foundation for success and attracting experienced players from top programs. This could result in further commitments from talented athletes who want to play for a rising program with championship potential.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With the addition of Cisse, South Carolina’s defense now has a critical piece for the 2025 season. The Gamecocks will have an experienced, athletic cornerback who can step in immediately and make an impact. While there are still several question marks surrounding the offense and other parts of the defense, Cisse’s commitment provides an important stabilizing force in the secondary.

The Gamecocks are preparing for a season where they will need to compete at a high level within the SEC, and Cisse’s skills and experience make him a valuable asset in that quest. His presence on the roster should help elevate the overall talent level of South Carolina’s defense, making the Gamecocks a formidable opponent for any team they face.