Mario Anderson

Mario Anderson Jr. (born April 24, 2001) is an American football running back for the Memphis Tigers. He previously played at Newberry College and for the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Early life and high school

Anderson attended Stratford High School in Goose Creek, South Carolina. An unranked recruit, he committed to play college football for Newberry College, joining the Division II team as a walk-on.

College career

Newberry

In four years at Newberry from 2019 to 2022, Anderson rushed 513 times for 3,296 yards and 35 touchdowns and hauled in 21 receptions for 135 yards. He was named first-team all-conference twice in 2021 and 2022, while also being named an All-American and a Harlon Hill Trophy finalist in 2022.

South Carolina

Anderson transferred to play for the South Carolina Gamecocks. In week 2 of the 2023 season, he rushed six times for 32 yards in a win over Furman. In week 4, Anderson ran for 88 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries in a win over Mississippi State. In week 5, he broke off a 75-yard rushing touchdown against Tennessee. Anderson finished the 2023 season rushing for 707 yards and four touchdowns on 143 carries, while also hauling in 22 receptions for 153 yards and a touchdown. Following the season, he entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.

Memphis

Anderson transferred to play for the Memphis Tigers. In week 7 of the 2024 season, he was ejected in the second quarter in a win over South Florida after spitting on Bulls defensive tackle Doug Blue-Eli. In week 8, Anderson rushed for 183 yards and four touchdowns on 22 carries in a win over North Texas. In week 12, he rushed for 138 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries to help beat UAB.