If he liked those campuses - beyond football - I’m not sure how Charleston would fit - even if they had football.
Of course, UGA is huge and more like a Bama. U of SC is adjacent to city and not as big. So there’s variability there - and UK and UTK are similar in that regard. Auburn is just - very nice, manicured. NC State is vastly different than a Bama or UGA and even U of SC.
Fayetteville Arkansas is really nice- I know you hear Arkansas - but the Fayetteville to Bentonville area is booming and you might toss in an app - because why not. I would say a Miss State is somewhat similar to Auburn (in my opinion). Their merit is great - might be worth an app and visit later.
But I can understand Charleston not being in the mix if he likes those schools. Of course, my daughter’s top four were C of C, U of SC, and then UF and U of Arizona. So I suppose someone could feel that way - but she really had a top one - the other three were so far behind it.
Good luck - I’m sure your son will find a great choice for him - and with all those schools, the amount of majors will be much greater. Of course C of C might have one to fit him - but it’s not quite as plentiful as the others.
Let us know as your journey progresses.