USC Recruiting News

[LedCock]

Thanks WB! That's great news.

[Williams-Brice]

Guys, I've heard a lot of people taking a trip to Negative Town because the recruits weren't showing any emotion at the basketball game. First of all, that report isn't true. As I stated earlier, I was sitting next to the recruits. Many of them to my left were clapping and yelling, as were their parents. This in itself is a good sign.

However, not all of them were doing this. Do not read into this! This is not negative! Put yourself in their shoes. If you were trying to compare several different schools, would you a) try to pull for a team with as much passion as the fans when in reality, you may never be on this campus again or b) sit there and take it all in and make a decision based on what you see? Personally, I would go with choice "b".

Let me remind you of the visits involving basketball games last year. OJ Murdock looked miserable until people chanted his name last year. Jonathan Hannah looked the most miserable out of anyone there. Carlos Thomas never cheered. Guys, the way the recruits reacted at the basketball game today should be no indication of whether they will don the Garnet and Black or not.

It is also not a bad thing that they left at halftime. They do this every week every year. Believe me, this was a good day in Columbia.

[LedCock]

So what's the agenda for the recruits tomorrow (Sunday)?

[Williams-Brice]

I don't know the actual agenda, but most of them will be leaving after lunch. That is all I know. I'd like to know what was on schedule for the rest of today after the basketball game. I should have asked someone like Eric Norwood, who was willing to talk to me today. Sorry about that, y'all. The thought never crossed my mind. That would have been useful information for all of us.

[Williams-Brice]

Someone just told me that Tony Morrell of GamecockCentral heard and is reporting that Terrence Campbell has committed to USC. Let it be know that you heard it hear first. . .around 10 hours ago!!!!!

[Williams-Brice]

It's never too early to talk about next year. Gary Gray (CB) and Mark Barnes (WR), teammates of Rodney Paulk and Adam Patterson at Richland Northeast High School, were supposed to go to Clemson this weekend. Neither one went, and Gray was spotted at the USC-UGA game.

Everything I've heard is good about their USC situation. They will both be 4 stars (potentially 5), and I really like our shot. We are a long way from then though, and we have some big fish to fry here in the next few weeks. By the way, Barnes has a tremendously good relationship with the Carolina coaching staff.

[scfan5338]

Someone just told me that Tony Morrell of GamecockCentral heard and is reporting that Terrence Campbell has committed to USC. Let it be know that you heard it hear first. . .around 10 hours ago!!!!!


You are indeed correct WB. Phil Kornbult is reporting the same thing.

Campbell Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
The first of what should be several commitments for USC from the weekend of official visits was recorded Saturday when DE Terrence Campbell (6-4 240) of Atlanta made his pledge. Campbell had to have an early afternoon meeting with Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier because he had to get back home for a basketball game. And he made his commitment to Spurrier at that meeting. "I had a real fun time," Campbell said Saturday night. "They best recruiter they have is Kenny McKinley. With him coming from my high school, you believe a lot more from your friend. You feel more comfortable with someone telling you about the program who you grew up with. I liked the atmosphere. It felt like home. I like the defensive scheme." Campbell also visited Arkansas and Louisville and said he will cancel visits to Memphis and Baylor. And he said look for several other Atlanta area players to possibly commit to the Gamecocks Sunday...DE Byron Isom, DL Olufemi Ajiboye, LB Eric Norwood and LB Vandaral Shackleford.

[SPURED]

one of the posters on the rivals forum posted that Troy Williamson was in town and threw a party. said columbia was the "Cool" place to be this weekend. that might have had something to do with why some of the recruites looked miserable during the game. i dont know how much of this is true. its just something another poster on the rivals forum posted.... How cool would that be to go to visit a school and go to a party that an NFL player is having?

[Williams-Brice]

Y'all, I don't want to take Phil's stuff and post it on here because y'all can go to his site and read for yourselves, but this caught my eye, and it pretty much confirms everything I've said today. It makes me very, very happy.

USC Expecting Big Sunday
By Phil Kornblut
By noon Sunday, USC's recruiting class for 2006 should be near completion. The Gamecocks have 16 commitments with the addition of DE Terrence Campbell. According to reliable sources, as many as six other players making official visits this week possibly will commit before returning home. The most likely to commit are DB Captain Munnerly, DB Darian Stewart, DE Byron Isom, DL Olufemi Ajiboye, LB Eric Norwood and LB Vandaral Shackleford. Players who appear close to committing to USC but may not do it this weekend would include DL Gavin Smith, LB A.J. Jones, OL PIerre Andrews, OL Hutch Eckerson, OL Heath Batchelor, OL Mike Berry and OL Daron Rose. RB Kylan Robinson did not arrive on campus until Saturday afternoon and will not return to Tampa until Monday. And USC will push hard for DB Chris Duvalt when he visits over the MLK Holiday.

[scfan5338]

Since when do we have 16 recruits?????

[pc72687]

WB, you came in on the clutch for us today. Thanks for sharing your blessings with us. By the way, in case you all missed what I said earlier in the year, here it is again.

Garret Anderson is a great kid with a great family. His father is a huge Flordia fan but thinks so highly of Spurrier that it was a no brainer for his son to go to a school that plays his alma mater.

[pc72687]

Sorry, I had to write one more post just to mention that we are now at over 400 pages in this thread. And it is still going strong. Guiness world record anyone.....

[Spurrierismyhomeboy]

one of the posters on the rivals forum posted that Troy Williamson was in town and threw a party. said columbia was the "Cool" place to be this weekend. that might have had something to do with why some of the recruites looked miserable during the game. i dont know how much of this is true. its just something another poster on the rivals forum posted.... How cool would that be to go to visit a school and go to a party that an NFL player is having?
Now that is cool!!!!!

[SPURED]

Now that is cool!!!!!
i thought so too i would have loved to have that opportunity when i was visiting schools.

[WoffordCock]

I think that the 16 includes the two grey shirts from last year.....maybe?

[Williams-Brice]

Michael Belcher and Jariel King are included in that 16. I could have sworn that King was going to go to South Carolina State. I would say we have 15 because Belcher will count against this class.

[LesR923]

Spured, you might not want to c&p the info strait from Tony's site. The "insider" info is for the paying members and those guys take it pretty seriously. Theres nothing against spreading the info that you get, but you shouldn't directly copy and paste. They have been known to block people for that. so just be careful with what you are writing

[Williams-Brice]

I was wrong. King is going to continue to try to get in to USC. I don't know what his chances are for qualifying. My apologies. I'm glad I caught that mistake when I did.

[FLgamecockJAX]

Jariel is still trying to get the needed SAT score. The coaches have encouraged him to try again and he supposedly has another try this month. From my understanding, he is only points away from a qualifying score.

Either way, the numbers game will be interesting. It has always been said that SOS is very honest with recruits. They seem to respect him for that. So for those that may have to wait, I'm sure they are aware of what our coaches are waiting on.

The numbers will work out and the coaches know the whole story.

[Williams-Brice]

Absolutely; this board (and every board) is all about speculation. I have a feeling we will be placing some guys.

[FLgamecockJAX]

WB,

Exactly! I'm just glad I'm not the one figuring these numbers out. But then again, if we new all the info the coaches know, it may be easier.

Hey,

Great job today! Thank you for supporting us very well and reporting back to us. Your info was right on target!

[Williams-Brice]

I hope I have established some credibility with y'all today. Let me say this was one of the best days I have had as a student at Carolina. I look forward to early Sunday afternoon to see how all this pans out!

[Dr. Pepper]

Hey, WB - 93 posts in a little over a week. And all of them quality info. Good work!

[JerryBeeds]

I hope I have established some credibility with y'all today. Let me say this was one of the best days I have had as a student at Carolina. I look forward to early Sunday afternoon to see how all this pans out!

You're the man. Your updates have all been spot on. Thanks for the info. :)

[rabidcock]

You're the man. Your updates have all been spot on. Thanks for the info. :)

Agreed. You are in an enviable position (at USC) to be able to give us all this insider info. Correction: WE are the ones in the enviable position of having you here at SECTalk. :D

[Carolina Cowboy]

Stewart Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
DB Darian Stewart (6-1 204) of Huntsville, AL committed Sunday to USC at the conclusion of his weekend official visit. Stewart said he picked USC "because of the players and the coaches, and the playing opportunity. They said I can play early." Yvan Banag was Stewart's player host. Stewart said he will visit Southern Miss this weekend because his brother, who is also a prospect, is visiting there. He does not plan to make a scheduled trip to Marshall. Stewart is viewed as a big safety. He had 74 tackles with 6 interceptions this season and was named all state.

[Williams-Brice]

Rivals.com has Darian Stewart as a 2 star, but scout.com has him as a 3 star. Just so you know. I put more stock into what rivals says, but regardless, we just got another good player from Alabama. I hope the Hawthorne situation works out.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Munnerlyn Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
DB Captain Munnerlyn (5-11 182) of Mobile, AL committed to USC Sunday morning at the conclusion of his official visit. "It feels real good," he said. "I just felt like this is the place I can make history. They've never won an SEC championship or a national championship. I just want to make history." Munnerlyn is one of the fastest prospects in Alabama. He had 38 tackles and 1 interception this season. He said his commitment is a firm one but he does plan to take his visits to West Virginia January 20th and Kansas State on the 27th. Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier and assistant Ron Cooper will make their in home visit with him Tuesday.

[scfan5338]

Norwood Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
As had been expected going into the weekend, LB Eric Norwood (6-2 245) of Acworth, GA committed to USC at the conclusion of his official visit Sunday. "It feels good to get the whole thing over," he said. "I'm glad I took this visit and I had something to compare to Oklahoma Sate. They showed me a good time. The city, I thought it would be all country. That's nice because I'm from the city. I like the team. They get along real good. They get along like brothers." Matt Raysor was his player host. Norwood said the Gamecocks recruited him as a middle linebacker. This season he had 50 tackles and 11 sacks playing outside linebacker and defensive end.

Munnerlyn Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
DB Captain Munnerlyn (5-11 182) of Mobile, AL committed to USC Sunday morning at the conclusion of his official visit. "It feels real good," he said. "I just felt like this is the place I can make history. They've never won an SEC championship or a national championship. I just want to make history." Munnerlyn is one of the fastest prospects in Alabama. He had 38 tackles and 1 interception this season. He said his commitment is a firm one but he does plan to take his visits to West Virginia January 20th and Kansas State on the 27th. Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier and assistant Ron Cooper will make their in home visit with him Tuesday.

Isom Visits USC
By Phil Kornblut
DE Byron Isom (6-3 260) of Lovejoy, GA visited USC over the weekend. He did not commit. "I'm going to go home and think about things first," he said. "I'll have a decision by the end of the week. The vist was cool. I went out with the players. My host was Nathan Pepper. I got along with the players real well. I liked everything. And now it's just sitting down with my mother and compare and contrast everything." Isom is deciding between USC and Auburn and said it's 50-50 between the two.

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB do you think any of the four star recruits will commit?

[pc72687]

So far so good with the visits. We closed on the players that we thought we would close with. I just want to see us get some of the ones that were iffy.

By the way what is "vcash"?

[SPURED]

i heard just a few minutes ago that AJ Jones has either committed or let the coaches know he was planning to announce for USC on Count down to signing day. if this is true than i will be the happiest person in the world!

[FLgamecockJAX]

That would be huge! Since he is announcing on CTSD, I don't expect a public commit. But, as you said, I'm sure our coaches received an indication of where we stand with him.

[JerryBeeds]

Batchelor and Shackleford have just commited. Batchelor is a three star OL who projects as a center or tackle. Shackleford is a three star LB. Our class is really starting to shape up now. I was worried, but SOS likes to finish strong.

[JerryBeeds]

Smith Close To USC Verbal
By Phil Kornblut
DL Gavin Smith (6-4 275) of Raleigh made his official visit to USC over the weekend. While he did not commit to the Gamecocks, he officially decommitted from NC State and eliminated them from consideration. And he left Columbia with a good feeling about his future plans. "I'm thinking I'm going to at South Carolina next year," he said. "I'm leaning heavily that way. I liked eveything. I didn't know anything about Columbia so I had low expectations. It wasn't anything like a thought. The city was a lot bigger. And the whole atmosphere. They love coach Spurrier here." Smith said he will take a visit to Virginia January 20th just to compare. He probably won't take a scheduled visit to North Carolina January 27th. Spurrier is to make his in home visit after Smith returns from Virginia. Cody Wells was his player host.

I guess you read his body language wrong or something W-B. He'll be wearing the garnet and black when all is said and done IMO.

[WayzUp]

Heard a rumor that Olufemi Ajiboye has committed as well. Anyone able to confirm that?

[JerryBeeds]

6' 3" 290 lb. OL Pierre Andrews of Charlotte has just commited to USC over LSU. Man I remember when we used get players to come here over MTSU and East Carolina and stuff like that. Our program is headed in the right direction fellas. Today has been great so far and it's only 12:30!

[SPURED]

receiver/safety Darian Stewart has commited to us

[SPURED]

ok after reading everything on Rivals and WB post on this site I will make this prediction right now: we will get A.J. Jones officially on Wednesday, we will get either Berry or Rose. we will get Gavin Smith and probabley Hutch Eckerson!

Im also hoping we get Robinson, Mitchell and Ajiboye

[WoffordCock]

what does that put the current commitment number to, and the projected number with the guys who are saying that they are pretty sure USC is for them?

[Williams-Brice]

WB do you think any of the four star recruits will commit?

Well, I'm not expert, but you asked me if I think any of them will commit. Absolutely. All signs point to AJ Jones committing. I really think we're going to get Rose, but I think it's going to go down to the wire. I like our chances with Berry, but we did have a lot to overcome.

By the way, Garrett Anderson will be moved to a 4 star when Rivals updates their rankings at the end of the month.

[Williams-Brice]

Smith Close To USC Verbal
By Phil Kornblut
DL Gavin Smith (6-4 275) of Raleigh made his official visit to USC over the weekend. While he did not commit to the Gamecocks, he officially decommitted from NC State and eliminated them from consideration. And he left Columbia with a good feeling about his future plans. "I'm thinking I'm going to at South Carolina next year," he said. "I'm leaning heavily that way. I liked eveything. I didn't know anything about Columbia so I had low expectations. It wasn't anything like a thought. The city was a lot bigger. And the whole atmosphere. They love coach Spurrier here." Smith said he will take a visit to Virginia January 20th just to compare. He probably won't take a scheduled visit to North Carolina January 27th. Spurrier is to make his in home visit after Smith returns from Virginia. Cody Wells was his player host.

I guess you read his body language wrong or something W-B. He'll be wearing the garnet and black when all is said and done IMO.


You are right! Man, I was wrong. I left the recruits at 11:45 yesterday morning, and at that point, my fellow tour guide and I were convinced that he was going to go to NC State. A lot of things have changed, I guess. I can't complain with that. I don't know if I ever said this yesterday, but his mother appeared to be very happy with USC on our tour.

[SPURED]

By the way, Garrett Anderson will be moved to a 4 star when Rivals updates their rankings at the end of the month.
i was about to say that. that is very good news. and im loving this recruiting class so far it has really filled our needs.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Just think of the big name recruits coming in next weekend. Ellis,Cook,and White. :cool:

[Williams-Brice]

Man, we are gonna run out of room! Believe me, that is a good thing! Someone who has already committed is going to get left out. The boys who are left on our list are the bigger names.

As I said yesterday, February 1st is going to be a great day to be a GAMECOCK!

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB can you post the visitors that you Know of, starting with monday?

[SPURED]

Just think of the big name recruits coming in next weekend. Ellis,Cook,and White. :cool:
so far we 17 commits according to rivals. plus the 2 greyshirts from last season. i think we are a lock for AJ Jones and Ajiboye so that would give us a total of 21. wich leaves us with 4 spots available without greyshirting anyone. we got Rose, Berry, Mitchell, Robinson, Patterson, Isom, Duvalt, Ellis, Cook, White, Smith and a couple more that are very high on our board that we actually have a shot at signing. i dont know whats going to happen but thats alot of good players to try and fit into 4 spots. and if we do oversign that means a couple of these guys will have to greyshirt.

[Williams-Brice]

Scout.com has Ajiboye listed as a commit. They also have his first name as "Ladi". I don't know what the deal is with that, but my best guess is that we just, indeed, picked up another committment.

[JerryBeeds]

Since Bailey, Gaston, Reaves, and one of the Brinkley twins have already arrived on campus, do they count against our total?

[SPURED]

Scout.com has Ajiboye listed as a commit. They also have his first name as "Ladi". I don't know what the deal is with that, but my best guess is that we just, indeed, picked up another committment.
thats the word on the rivals boards as well.

[Williams-Brice]

Since Bailey, Gaston, Reaves, and one of the Brinkley twins have already arrived on campus, do they count against our total?


Yes, all of those guys count "against" our total.

[SPURED]

Since Bailey, Gaston, Reaves, and one of the Brinkley twins have already arrived on campus, do they count against our total?
i do believe it counts on our total for this season

[Williams-Brice]

Daron Rose has announced he will still wait until after his FSU visit on January 27th to make a decision. He will be at Florida next weekend. He said the Gamecocks definitely moved up his list.

[GatorHunter]

Sorry guys, but AJ Jones is a Gator and has been for some time...he'll make it official on CTSD Wed. :D

Think UF is the team to beat for Rose as well...however, I am not as confident about him as I am Jones....we'll see. ;)

[JerryBeeds]

Ajiboye Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut
DL Olufemi Ajiboye (6-2 275) of College Park, GA committed to USC Sunday while on his official visit. "They are going to have a good program soon, " Ajiboye said. "I got along with all the players. I have a good chance of playing early my freshman year, and that sounded good to me." Ajiboye also visited Illinois. He said he will visit Virginia Tech January 20th but he felt his commitment to USC was a firm one. This season Ajiboye had 80 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

[SPURED]

Sorry guys, but AJ Jones is a Gator and has been for some time...he'll make it official on CTSD Wed. :D

Think UF is the team to beat for Rose as well...however, I am not as confident about him as I am Jones....we'll see. ;)
we will see wednsday on count down to signing day. but i believe he will be suited up in Garnet and black next season....

[SPURED]

Ajiboye Commits To USC
DL Olufemi Ajiboye (6-2 275) of College Park, GA committed to USC Sunday while on his official visit. "They are going to have a good program soon, " Ajiboye said. "I got along with all the players. I have a good chance of playing early my freshman year, and that sounded good to me." Ajiboye also visited Illinois. He said he will visit...
(Jan. 15)

[Carolina Cowboy]

Did anybody hear any news on Berry? It looks like Wdave might have been right about isom and berry.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I haven't heard anything on McQueen either?

[rabidcock]

Before this recruiting weekend, we were ranked somewhere around 45th in the recruiting gurus opinions (the "star" rankings). Does anyone want to venture a guess where we may end up being ranked?

[SPURED]

Before this recruiting weekend, we were ranked somewhere around 45th in the recruiting gurus opinions (the "star" rankings). Does anyone want to venture a guess where we may end up being ranked?
Rivals had us ranked 38th. i think with all these new guys coming in we will be somewhere in the late 20's or early 30's.

[WoffordCock]

yeah our commits have increased but our "star rating" has dropped due to a few 2 star guys that we got this weekend. But with the updated rankings comming and the possibility of grabbing a few other big names we should fair pretty well in the overall recruiting class.

[Williams-Brice]

AJ Jones will commit on Countdown to Signing Day. He said he will have to sit down all day and go with his gut on the show.

We lead for Hutch Eckerson. He will tell the coaches his decision after his VT visit next week, but he won't let all of us know until Signing Day. I like our chances, even though Eckerson said he knows he will enjoy VT.

[OmahaBound]

question that no one may know the answer to....i was reading something a couple days ago online (for all i know it might have been here but i don't think so) and it said one of the DBs we were recruiting would have been a 4 star prospect but rivals was so sure that the kid wouldn't qualify that they made him a 2 star. was that kid stewart?

a better question might be, does anyone have any idea what i'm talking about or am i just making this up? hehe

[GamecockinIL]

W-B,
I just personally want to say "Thank You!" :cool: Your inside information, and you insight on that information has been truly appreciated. I live in Illinois...Far away from the hub of activity that is swirling around the campus during the recruiting season. Obviously, there is no interest here in Carolina Athletics.

It is an unexpected "bonus" to have someone like you sharing information on the board. Please know, that it is not taken for granted. I have no doubt there are plenty of Gamecocks like me that have few sources of info for their Carolina fix outside of this board because of where they live. Even though I can't attend a single ballgame, I feel like I'm participating because of people like you.

Thanks again. :D

[Carolina Cowboy]

question that no one may know the answer to....i was reading something a couple days ago online (for all i know it might have been here but i don't think so) and it said one of the DBs we were recruiting would have been a 4 star prospect but rivals was so sure that the kid wouldn't qualify that they made him a 2 star. was that kid stewart?

a better question might be, does anyone have any idea what i'm talking about or am i just making this up? hehe
I read the same article and yes thats what it said. I wonder if he will go up to 4 star next month.

[Beebop]

What about Kylan Robinson....did he indeed make it in to Columbia, and if so how's it going with him....We need him to commit...that would be HUGE!!!

[Beebop]

WB....thanks for all the input, I was actually down there in Columbia this weekend, unfortunately couldn't make it to the game. It was great to get home and be able to catch up with all the post. I'll say that with yours and Neo's insigt, we Gamecock fans have a superb outlet for all our recruiting and general Gamecock needs. Thanks for all that you do and all that you've done.

[JerryBeeds]

question that no one may know the answer to....i was reading something a couple days ago online (for all i know it might have been here but i don't think so) and it said one of the DBs we were recruiting would have been a 4 star prospect but rivals was so sure that the kid wouldn't qualify that they made him a 2 star. was that kid stewart?

a better question might be, does anyone have any idea what i'm talking about or am i just making this up? hehe

It was Darian Stewart. He was a hot commodity last summer when it appeared he wouldn't qualify, alot of teams backed off. Apparently he has gotten his act together and is expected to fully qualify.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Could Geathers End Up At USC?
By Phil Kornblut
OL Clifton Geathers (6-8 270) of Carvers Bay remains the greatest mystery in this year's recruiting class. An All America selection by several outlets, Geathers has not only not taken an official visit, he has yet to schedule one. Apparently, this is because Geathers has not made his transcript and test score available to schools, and you can't visit unless there is a copy of each at the school. Also, according to a source, Geathers does not plan to sign on National Signing Day. As for his schools of interest, the source said South Carolina is pretty strong with Geathers, that he has been there several times and knows the school well. USC would certainly be opened to taking Geathers if he meets the requirements. Other schools Geathers has mentioned are Florida State, Florida, Georgia, Southern Cal and Tennessee.

I would love to get this guy but I don't think he will qualify.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Jones Set To Announce
By Phil Kornblut
LB A.J. Jones (6-2 195) of Tampa made his official visit to USC over the weekend and plans to announce his college choice Wednesday night on Countdown To Kickoff on Fox SportsNet. "I thought it was real nice," Jones said of his USC visit. "I got to hang out with my ex-teammates. They showed me a good time. The program is good and is run by a great man. The city is not too big or too small. The academics are good, too." Jones has also visited Southern Cal, Alabama and Ohio State but is no longer considering Southern Cal. He is scheduled to visit Florida January 20th but won't go there if he picks another school. Jones could not identify a favorite Sunday afternoon. "I've got to weigh my options over the next two days," Jones said.

[Djshockley3]

Geathers is a wasted scholarship, I do not want him give him to FSU and UT he will sure qualify there.

[Williams-Brice]

Geathers is a wasted scholarship, I do not want him give him to FSU and UT he will sure qualify there.

My thoughts exactly! This kid looks lazy, both in pictures and film. He does have a long family history of playing in the NFL, and he has the body to do so. I am just not high on this kid. I don't like the fact that the kid isn't turing in his transcripts to any school. That just screams laziness and/or stupidity.

Give me the other 4-star guys we are going after.

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB whats the deal with Berry?

[SPURED]

What about Kylan Robinson....did he indeed make it in to Columbia, and if so how's it going with him....We need him to commit...that would be HUGE!!!
he did make it. He was seen with Coach Reeves and Gillespie, Jonathan Hannah, and Academic counselor at Jillian's

[SPURED]

WB whats the deal with Berry?
he rated his visit to carolina a 9, but he said we are dead even with Auburn. he wanted to make a decision sometime soon but says he isnt sure he will be able to do that now, because the race is so close.

Mcqueen however said UCF is now his favorite, because Spurrier told him they might not have enough Schollies for him with some of the other guys that commited. he also said NC state is probably the only other team in the race because he liked that visit more than the visit he had in columbia

[WDavE]

Did anybody hear any news on Berry? It looks like Wdave might have been right about isom and berry.


It looks like your staff did a good job on Isom..... He left his visit with you with us both even....


With Berry you had alot of ground to make up....

Congrats on the Norwood commit. I know the Auburn coaches liked him but had other fish to fry.....

Whitehead, Roseman, Gray, and Miller....

The next two fun things on the agenda are Hawthrone and Patterson

[Carolina Cowboy]

Isom better make his mind up soon or he is going to be left out in the cold.

[rabidcock]

Isom better make his mind up soon or he is going to be left out in the cold.

He will probably get the scholarship that we will most assuredly be holding for Kylan Robinson (who probably won't sign with us(c)). ;)

[GatorHunter]

Jones Set To Announce
By Phil Kornblut
LB A.J. Jones (6-2 195) of Tampa made his official visit to USC over the weekend and plans to announce his college choice Wednesday night on Countdown To Kickoff on Fox SportsNet. "I thought it was real nice," Jones said of his USC visit. "I got to hang out with my ex-teammates. They showed me a good time. The program is good and is run by a great man. The city is not too big or too small. The academics are good, too." Jones has also visited Southern Cal, Alabama and Ohio State but is no longer considering Southern Cal. He is scheduled to visit Florida January 20th but won't go there if he picks another school. Jones could not identify a favorite Sunday afternoon. "I've got to weigh my options over the next two days," Jones said.

UF only has room for one more LB...J. Johnson, who's stated that he'd commit to UF if offered, visited this weekend and left without an offer. This guy is a beast, could play immediately...yet he left without an offer....maybe UF is slowplaying him until Jones decides...but I've heard Jones is UF all the way from a very reliable source. We'll all know Wed.

[Williams-Brice]

UF only has room for one more LB...J. Johnson, who's stated that he'd commit to UF if offered, visited this weekend and left without an offer. This guy is a beast, could play immediately...yet he left without an offer....maybe UF is slowplaying him until Jones decides...but I've heard Jones is UF all the way from a very reliable source. We'll all know Wed.

GatorHunter, with y'all already having 27 committments, who do you think will get left out if you do indeed end up with committments from Jones and Rose? Do you think the class size could come into play when these guys make their choice?

[Dr. Pepper]

WB - How about giving us a summary of our commitments to date. Name, position, size, any other information. Going through all these posts have made me bugged eyed and I am not really sure who we have at this point.

Keep up the good work.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I find it a little disapointing that we did not land one 4 star recruit. :(

[WayzUp]

According to Korn, we're 50/50 with Auburn for Mike Berry's committment.

Also, Jared Mitchell is 50/50 and down to USC & LSU.

Lastly, Gavin Smith is a "strong lean" to USC after decommitting from NC State and taking them out of consideration. He's more or less ours.

Adam Patterson did not committ to UT after his visit there this past weekend & will be in Columbia on an unofficial tomorrow afternoon.

[Dr. Pepper]

Yet! It is not over until February 1.

[Dr. Pepper]

WB, disregard my request for info. It can be found at Gamecockcentral.com. You do not have to be a member to access that info.

[Dr. Pepper]

WB-

Congrats on becoming a veteran in less than two weeks!

[FLgamecockJAX]

...but I've heard Jones is UF all the way from a very reliable source. We'll all know Wed.

Gatorhunter,

Before this weekend, you are exactly right. AJ was 99% sure he'd attend UF. So was OJ Murdoch last year prior to his visit with SOS. SOS and the Gamecocks made a HUGE impact on AJ this weekend. Remember, his 2 buddies are playing in Columbia and love playing for SOS and company. You said understand what that's like. Remember, they loved playing for him at UF also. Some things never change.

Now, whether we get him.....only he and the coaching staffs may know. But I don't believe you can count on that 99% sure that was once there. He may go home and rekindle his desire to play at UF, but then again....he may just have bought into the man that build UF! We'll see Wednesday.

[GatorHunter]

GatorHunter, with y'all already having 27 committments, who do you think will get left out if you do indeed end up with committments from Jones and Rose? Do you think the class size could come into play when these guys make their choice?

WB, I doubt class size will be an issue because we really need depth at LB and OL...despite Zooks rep. for being an awesome recruiter, he left us in a "mess" with depth...so again, I don't see class size being a factor.

We actually only have 26 commits...we had to drop a 5* JUCO LB, Grant, because his scholly offer depended on him getting into school this month...we had 7 schollies above the allowed 25 that rolled over from last year...Grant didn't make the required score so we had to bump him. IF UF could have gotten 7 early entries, we would have been able to sign 32 players...you can use schollies from the previous year if the kids can enroll in January...anyway, UF only had 4 guys come in January...so I look for us to sign 29...maybe 30 because one of our commits probably will be drafted in the 1st round of the MLB draft. Should get pretty interesting between now and signing day with the numbers crunch...I don't see UF dropping anyone that is currently committed, though.

[Williams-Brice]

We are still in the game for Tim Hawthorne. He took an unofficial visit to Alabama this weekend, and came out saying that he has been there so many times that the visit did nothing for him. He also said LSU is basically out, Tennessee is on the outside looking in, and Alabama is trailing other schools. He restated that he wants to visit either South Carolina or Louisville on 1/27. He also said he really really wanted to be at Carolina this weekend, and he really wants to end up taking a visit here. Also, Chris Smelley has been recruiting him HARD.

I'm telling y'all; I still like our chances here. Things are only going to get better with this class.

[scfan5338]

Just think of the big name recruits coming in next weekend. Ellis,Cook,and White. :cool:

I think we are in the lead for Ellis and Cook or Ellis and White. We might end up signing up all 3 of these guys.

[FLgamecockJAX]

He also said he really really wanted to be at Carolina this weekend, and he really wants to end up taking a visit here. Also, Chris Smelley has been recruiting him HARD.


I believe he wanted to be here also. I may be wrong, but if he had made the trip with Smelley, I believe we would have received his commit. I would still love to have him and believe with the support of his parents, he would come our way.

Once again, how would the numbers work out? SOS and company have their hands full! It's a great problem to have.

I would be willing to say our staff will be even MORE SELECTIVE taking early commits next year. This seems to be SOS's style. Gatorhunter, can you share more with us about SOS's recruiting style at UF. I was living in Jacksonville and I don't remember him taking a bunch of early commits.

During the season, SOS is busy coaching the ball team. Since he's his own QB coach and OC, it takes lots of his time.

It's a great time to be a Gamecock!

[pc72687]

WB, other sites are saying the same things about Hawthrone. They are saying that even though the Alabama trip went well Chris Smelley is always calling him about joining him down in SC and he said "I might end up down there in Columbia." So this ship hasn't set sail quite yet, we still might get him after all.

Remember gamecock fans that our recruits might look even better after the reevaluation. Anderson is a lock on to be a four star and might even join the rivals 100 or 250. Paulk will probably also move up in to the four star category. Other players might move up also.

[scfan5338]

WB, other sites are saying the same things about Hawthrone. They are saying that even though the Alabama trip went well Chris Smelley is always calling him about joining him down in SC and he said "I might end up down there in Columbia." So this ship hasn't set sail quite yet, we still might get him after all.

Remember gamecock fans that our recruits might look even better after the reevaluation. Anderson is a lock on to be a four star and might even join the rivals 100 or 250. Paulk will probably also move up in to the four star category. Other players might move up also.


I personally don't really even care about where we end up in the rankings recruiting wise. When Holtz was here we landed in the Top 10 a couple of times and the Top 15 couple of times. That didnt get us into the Top 25 poll at the end of the season. We have gotten solid recruits this year, we got players that we NEED. Our OL should be good next year and GREAT the year after that. LB was a need for us going into this last weekend and we addressed that most definetly.

[CarolinaGrad]

I have a question. Last year Spurrier withdrew some scholarships to make way for new guys. Can he do this again with our probation?

[pc72687]

Carolina Grad, I was wondering the same thing. It seems we are recruiting to get 25 signees which makes me think that the 2 scholarship reduction would be from later classes as opposed to incoming classes.

[Williams-Brice]

We can still bring in 25 signees, but we can only have 83 scholarships on the team. I heard that it really has no effect on incoming classes. It gives Spurrier a reason to cut the clowns he cut last summer.

[Williams-Brice]

I think it's great that our recruits are seeing their stock rise from Rivals, but what should really make us happy is the fact that SOS is getting guys he has targetted for a long time. For example, Tim Tebow is a 5-star prospect; Chris Smelley is a 4-star prospect. One would think Spurrier would target Tebow over Smelley, but Spurrier knows that a running QB wouldn't fit his system. Smelley was his #1 target for the QB position, and we landed him. The same will be true with all the O-Linemen if we end up with Berry, Hutch, and Rose. I'm just confident SOS is getting the guys he knows can play in his system.

[WDavE]

We can still bring in 25 signees, but we can only have 83 scholarships on the team. I heard that it really has no effect on incoming classes. It gives Spurrier a reason to cut the clowns he cut last summer.


Most of us are going through a number crunch at this time... Auburn has 17 commits with two being sign and place. (Harris & Gray)

That leaves 5-6 spots left.

We're still on alot of players...... It may come down to first come, first served....



I am sure Berry and Isom have heard that from both sides...Good luck regardless.......

[GatorHunter]

I believe he wanted to be here also. I may be wrong, but if he had made the trip with Smelley, I believe we would have received his commit. I would still love to have him and believe with the support of his parents, he would come our way.

Once again, how would the numbers work out? SOS and company have their hands full! It's a great problem to have.

I would be willing to say our staff will be even MORE SELECTIVE taking early commits next year. This seems to be SOS's style. Gatorhunter, can you share more with us about SOS's recruiting style at UF. I was living in Jacksonville and I don't remember him taking a bunch of early commits.

During the season, SOS is busy coaching the ball team. Since he's his own QB coach and OC, it takes lots of his time.

It's a great time to be a Gamecock!

When SOS was at UF...he would jump on any highly ranked player that "wanted" to sign with UF...SOS wasn't a very aggressive recruiter, however...meaning, he will not be text messaging or making a lot of phone calls. He is "old school" and has the mind set that if a recruit wants to play for him...he'll come, otherwise, heck with him. I like his style when it comes to offensive players...he can take guys nobody wanted and turn them into superstars...however, it backfired a lot with def. players...UF ended up signing a lot of 4-5 star offensive guys and 2-3 star defensive guys. UFs greatest success under SOS, '95, '96, was due to a great defense...we had Bob Stoops and he knew how to go out and get good def. players.

Now is a different story, no offense to USC, but it wasn't that hard convincing guys to come to UF...I think it will take a little time before USC gets to that point. SOS always took a lot of criticism at UF for his conservative recruiting efforts...but I think he knows USC is a different situation and requires a little more "effort"....so I look for you guys to haul in some impressive classes in the future.

[GatorHunter]

AJ Jones has announced that he will choose between UF and Bama on CTSD. Looks like another battle between UF and UA...3 of 4....(Tebow, Spikes, Jones, and Smith.)

[Beebop]

Anyone heard on Kylan????
Neo/WB what's the word....I know he was leaving today, but did he make a commit???

[RW13]

When SOS was at UF...he would jump on any highly ranked player that "wanted" to sign with UF...SOS wasn't a very aggressive recruiter, however...meaning, he will not be text messaging or making a lot of phone calls. He is "old school" and has the mind set that if a recruit wants to play for him...he'll come, otherwise, heck with him. I like his style when it comes to offensive players...he can take guys nobody wanted and turn them into superstars...however, it backfired a lot with def. players...UF ended up signing a lot of 4-5 star offensive guys and 2-3 star defensive guys. UFs greatest success under SOS, '95, '96, was due to a great defense...we had Bob Stoops and he knew how to go out and get good def. players.

Now is a different story, no offense to USC, but it wasn't that hard convincing guys to come to UF...I think it will take a little time before USC gets to that point. SOS always took a lot of criticism at UF for his conservative recruiting efforts...but I think he knows USC is a different situation and requires a little more "effort"....so I look for you guys to haul in some impressive classes in the future.

Great, honest assesment, and I totally agree. Luckily for us, the one thing we've had since 1999 (we had a top 15 Defense and went 0-11) is a good defense or at least a decent defense, sure, we've had our blowouts during that time but alot of that can be attributed to offensive ineptitude and the D being on the field too much (as far as the large margins of victory...), we have a good coordinator for defense and I think we should be ok there, we've just got to figure a way to score alot of points to match the great teams in the league that can erupt for 50 (LSU, Auburn), if nothing else, the next decade will be exciting for us SC fans...

[CarolinaGrad]

We can still bring in 25 signees, but we can only have 83 scholarships on the team. I heard that it really has no effect on incoming classes. It gives Spurrier a reason to cut the clowns he cut last summer.

Thanks for the info, WB. I was hoping we could bring in more players if he did what he did last summer.

[CarolinaGrad]

AJ Jones has announced that he will choose between UF and Bama on CTSD. Looks like another battle between UF and UA...3 of 4....(Tebow, Spikes, Jones, and Smith.)

Bad news for us. However, who knows what he'll decide by signing day.

[TyThunder]

I heard some Clemson fan saying Smelly is with drawing his committement, any one else heard that?

[Williams-Brice]

I heard some Clemson fan saying Smelly is with drawing his committement, any one else heard that?

Absolutely 100% FALSE. Smelley was here this weekend, and he has gone on the record as potentially the most important recruiter for USC when it comes to Tim Hawthorne. Sounds like the Taters are already a little worried. There is absolutely no way this kid isn't going to be a Gamecock. He and his dad even made the long drive to Shreveport for the bowl game. No chance.

[GAMECOCK_FAN]

I heard some Clemson fan saying Smelly is with drawing his committement, any one else heard that?
Coming from a Clemson fan, I wouldn't put much stock in it. Also, with Smelley coming to SC this past weekend and trying to steer some of the recruits to come to SC, I would say he is still a Gamecock.

[Williams-Brice]

My guess on Kylan is that he has left already and has not made it home, yet. No site has any updated info on him, and no one I've talked to knows anything. Let's just be patient with this one, y'all. I know it's tough because I want to know just as much. If I find out anything, then I'll let y'all know.

[Dr. Pepper]

Rivals now has has us ranked at #30. That is a jump of 20 spots in one day!

[Williams-Brice]

I wanna see where they put us when they re-evaluate all of the prospects. I think we are looking at a Top 25 class as we speak.

There is still no word on Kylan. I highly doubt he committed because he went into this weekend with Miami as his favorite. He will visit the Hurricanes next week. I still think it is a possitive thing that he was here alone.

[Williams-Brice]

Although USC made enough of an impression on Byron Isom this weekend to pull the Gamecocks into a 50-50 tie with Auburn, Isom has decided to take a visit to Michigan State this weekend. He still said his decision is primarily between Carolina and Auburn. Tyrone Nix will make an in-home visit with Isom on Wednesday.

[WayzUp]

Although USC made enough of an impression on Byron Isom this weekend to pull the Gamecocks into a 50-50 tie with Auburn, Isom has decided to take a visit to Michigan State this weekend. He still said his decision is primarily between Carolina and Auburn. Tyrone Nix will make an in-home visit with Isom on Wednesday.
The weather up here is supposed to take a turn for the worse later in the week and it's probably gonna be windy, cold & raining for Friday evening & most of Saturday with some snow mixed in. In short, it's gonna be cold, gray and depressing up here when Isom comes up. Hope he's one of those guys who hates the cold! :D They do need defense in a BAD way, moreso that even we do, so he could get lured into the early PT there....but I doubt it.

[LesR923]

Phil was just on the cheap seats and said that Kylan hadn't been gone long. He said that he would try to talk with him later this afternoon/evening and post an update on his site. Heck if he talks to him sooner he will report it on sports talk tonight between 6 and 8.

[rabidcock]

Where can one hear "sports talk"?

[Williams-Brice]

I am listening to 1320 AM here in Columbia. They are about to bring Tony Morrell on to talk some Gamecock Recruiting. Is that the same show PK will be on?

[Dr. Pepper]

I wanna see where they put us when they re-evaluate all of the prospects. I think we are looking at a Top 25 class as we speak.

There is still no word on Kylan. I highly doubt he committed because he went into this weekend with Miami as his favorite. He will visit the Hurricanes next week. I still think it is a possitive thing that he was here alone.

When will they be reevaluating? Do they do this every day, every week, or just whenever?

[Williams-Brice]

Tony Morrell just said that 2007 is going to be a much better recruiting year for the state of South Carolina. He says the state is down this year, and that is indicated by both Carolina and Clemson's classes. This is why Carolina has looked long and hard at these out of state guys. Personally, I don't care if they are from South Carolina or Zimbabwae. I just want to win.

[Williams-Brice]

I believe I just heard that Florida is a non-factor for Daron Rose.

[Williams-Brice]

Tony has not been able to reach Kylan Robinson, yet. All of this is coming from Tony Morrell on the radio right now.

[OmahaBound]

Robinson Down To Final Three
By Phil Kornblut
RB Kylan Robinson (6-1 215) of Tampa completed his official visit to USC Monday and said he had a very good time in Columbia. "I think in I could in and contribut early," Robinson said. "And I really liked running backs coach Robert Gillespie." Jonathan Hannah served as his player host. Robinson said he has narrowed his decision to USC, Ohio State and Miami. He is no longer considering Florida. He will visit Miami this coming weekend.

[Williams-Brice]

Florida never even offered Kylan. PK basically broke no story with that report. I just want to hear what the kid says to Tony Morrell. Unfortunately, the interview on the radio just ended, so I may have to get the info by word-of-mouth.

[LesR923]

I listen to the shw on 560 am in columbia. Its on from 6-8 pm. Sports Talk usually covers recruiting most every day this time of the year.

Teddy's show is on 1400 from 7-10 am weekdays. Not much to that one.

Cheap Seats w/ Brewer is 4-6 pm AM 1400 weekdays also.

[Williams-Brice]

Teddy's show sucks. Teddy sucks. He admitted last week to not caring much about recruiting anyway. Plus, the guy just gets on there and reads the newspaper. If someone calls in about a topic which hasn't been in the paper in a week, then Teddy has no idea what to say.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Patterson Loved Day At USC
By Phil Kornblut
DE Adam Patterson (6-2 260) of Richland Northeast made an all day visit to USC Monday. It was supposed to an unofficial visit but Patterson said it actually became an official visit. Patterson was on campus from around 9:30 AM till 6:00 PM. "It went great, everything was perfect," Patterson said. Head coach Steve Spurrier and assistant Ty Nix spent much of the time with Patterson and his parents as they were given the tour of the campus and the facilties. "The academics look great," Patterson said. He said he was able to turn the visit into an official visit because he has decided not to visit Penn State. He will visit NC State this weekend and Auburn on the 27th. He has also visited Michigan and Tennessee. Patterson said there's no favorite at this point. :cool:

[GatorHunter]

I believe I just heard that Florida is a non-factor for Daron Rose.

Could be right....UF is looking to sign one more OL and 5*Symonette is at the top of the board and leaning our way...although, Rose is scheduled to visit UF this weekend on what has been branded "Gator Love Weekend" for prospects...this is one of the biggest recruiting weekends as far as #s and the coaches will be putting pressure on all of the "iffys" to commit because it's basically time for first come first serve....we've got 20 coming in and room for 4-5.

[Carolina Cowboy]

GH all of this bragging about florida recruiting onthe USC thread is getting old.Yes florida is having a great recruitng year Bla-Bla-Bla.

[pc72687]

I also agree that next year will be the year for SC recruiting. This year has been great for what it is, a needs based recruiting. We have gone out and gotten what we needed. I am very pleased with the line commits and would be even more with some of the possibles. I know that all of our recruits will be solid since many if not all of last years were so.

[Williams-Brice]

Kylan Robinson said there was nothing negative about his official visit here this weekend. He said he liked several things more than he did at Ohio State, mainly his ability to interact with current players and his opportunity for early playing time. He says he plans to make an announcement next Wednesday after he returns from his Miami visit. He says all three schools are equal.

Just a hunch guys, but I think we are getting this kid after this weekend.

[Carolina Cowboy]

AJ Jones has announced that he will choose between UF and Bama on CTSD. Looks like another battle between UF and UA...3 of 4....(Tebow, Spikes, Jones, and Smith.)
WB do you think he is going to shock the world?Or is that wishful thinking?

[pc72687]

I don't think he would leave SC out if they weren't in consideration, but then again it has already happened once this year.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Has anybody heard anything on DB chris Duvalt trip to USC? I also see that gamecock central has put Marcus Udell on our DB list is he going to visit?

[GatorHunter]

GH all of this bragging about florida recruiting onthe USC thread is getting old.Yes florida is having a great recruitng year Bla-Bla-Bla.

Bragging? WTH are you talkin' about? I was actually asked a question by a USC guy concerning SOS's recruiting tactics and another about UF's recruiting on this thread...not bragging, just stating facts and trying to be hospitable...sounds like sour grapes to me....blah-blah-blah-blah! :rolleyes:

[Williams-Brice]

WB do you think he is going to shock the world?Or is that wishful thinking?

I cannot remember where I got this from, so forgive me. His high school coach said today that he is going to choose between Florida, Alabama, and South Carolina. I think he is going to shock the world on Wednesday. I have my fingers crossed. I am just telling you what I read today.

[Williams-Brice]

Has anybody heard anything on DB chris Duvalt trip to USC? I also see that gamecock central has put Marcus Udell on our DB list is he going to visit?

Marcus Udell will be here on the 1/27 weekend. This pretty much came out of nowhere.

[Williams-Brice]

Chasman Davis will be here this upcoming weekend provided the MRI on his knee comes back positive. He hurt it this weekend in an All-Star game. I had no idea about this visit, either.

[Williams-Brice]

All three of the above discussed players are 4-star defensive players from the Sunshine State.

[CarolinaGrad]

Bragging? WTH are you talkin' about? I was actually asked a question by a USC guy concerning SOS's recruiting tactics and another about UF's recruiting on this thread...not bragging, just stating facts and trying to be hospitable...sounds like sour grapes to me....blah-blah-blah-blah! :rolleyes:

GH, you did give us a great post on SOS's recruiting tactics that I really appreciated.

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB I have noticed that some of our commit's are soft, are they conditional while he are starting to get the attention from the Blue chipers? Clemson has dropped to #22 in team rankings and we have moved to #30. I bet we catch them. :D

[GatorHunter]

GH, you did give us a great post on SOS's recruiting tactics that I really appreciated.

No problem....as I said, you guys should only be looking at the "stars" for defensive players because SOS will take 1A HS 3rd team honorable mention all-county offensive players and have them winning Heismans! :D

[Williams-Brice]

WB I have noticed that some of our commit's are soft, are they conditional while he are starting to get the attention from the Blue chipers? Clemson has dropped to #22 in team rankings and we have moved to #30. I bet we catch them. :D

I noticed that, too. I heard it is because they plan on taking their final visit(s). Olufemi Ajiboye is a prime example of what I am talking about.

[Carolina Cowboy]

So I guess we will continue to extend offers until sighning day?

[Carolina Cowboy]

Two Teams Emerge Tonight For Jones
By Phil Kornblut
LB A.J. Jones (6-2 195) of Tampa plans to announce his decision Wednesday night on Countdown To Signing Day on Fox Sportsnet. Monday night Jones said Alabama and Florida were his top two teams with USC and Ohio State even in third. But he said that he had been reviewing a lot of information on Florida and Alabama, and when he reviews more information on the Gamecocks and Buckeyes, his feelings could change. But he indicated his decision Wednesday likely would come down to Alabama or Florida. Florida head coach Urban Meyer met with Jones Monday and he will visit Florida this weekend. He also talked on the phone Monday night with USC recruiter David Reaves. :(

[LesR923]

Shock the world huh? Apparantly you weren't around when Avery Atkins "shocked the world" last year on ctsd. Jones probably will be a gator. Can you blame him? If I was born and raised in a state, grew up a fan, and had a shot to play there with that incredible class that they have I'd probably go too.

Florida needs to stack up on players. As long as they keep beating Ga I dont care who they have. I bet their recruiting class beat ours last year, the year before that, the year before that, and the year before that...............but we were the ones partying November 12

[Williams-Brice]

Shock the world huh? Apparantly you weren't around when Avery Atkins "shocked the world" last year on ctsd. Jones probably will be a gator. Can you blame him? If I was born and raised in a state, grew up a fan, and had a shot to play there with that incredible class that they have I'd probably go too.

Didn't OJ Murdock shock the world by picking us last year after letting it be known to the media that we pretty much didn't have a chance? Were you around when he shocked the world?

By the way, I waited around all day last year to see what Atkins would do, and I was pretty upset when he didn't do anything special.

Look, AJ Jones has reportedly told his coach he will decide between Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina. I'm keeping my hopes up that we still have a chance, and he wouldn't shock me in the least if he picks us.

[Williams-Brice]

If I was born and raised in a state, grew up a fan, and had a shot to play there with that incredible class that they have I'd probably go too.


The problem for us is that the best players in this state don't grow up Gamecock fans. They grow up Florida, FSU, Tennessee, Clemson, and Georgia fans. That may be changing.

[SPURED]

he said that he had been reviewing a lot of information on Florida and Alabama, and when he reviews more information on the Gamecocks and Buckeyes, his feelings could change.(
i like this quote. he has already reviewed alot of info on Bama and UF, now once he Reviews his info on us he could change his mind and shock the world and come to columbia.

and i honestly believe clemson beats us most of the time because they usually have more instate players that know what the Rivalry is all about.we have been getting alot of out of state players that in my oppinion dont really know how big this rivalry is. most of our players have been coming from Georgia so that explains why we always play them tough. now we are recruiting Florida harder so hopefully we will start playing Florida better rather than the beatings they have given us in recent years. and hopefully soon we will be able to get the best players from SC, UGA and Florida.

[Williams-Brice]

Kenrick Ellis, set to visit Carolina this weekend, has improved his SAT score to 910. He plans to meet with his guidance counselor tomorrow to talk about what he needs to do this semester to qualify to play college football. Rutgers leads for him right now, but his coach says that is only because he has visited there. Everyone is expecting us to come out with a lead after his visit this weekend. I think we are going to get this guy, but I think we are going to place him somewhere. I don't think he will qualify.

[pc72687]

Why wouldn't he qualify with a 910. That isn't an amazing score but it should be more then good enough. Is his GPA really low?

[Williams-Brice]

I think I remember it being in the 2.2 range. I could be mixing up information with different players, but I think he has a bad GPA.

[Williams-Brice]

USC is in the top two for 4-star Florida DB Chris Duvalt. He visited West Virginia this weekend and made a stop in Columbia for an official visit on his way home. I like West Virginia's chances because they have been on him for a while. I also like our chances because I think we will hound him until Signing Day, which is when he is expected to make his announcement.

[Beebop]

http://64.237.99.126/oldclips/Kylan%20Robinson.wmv

Here is footage of Kylan....I vaguely, but do remember watching someone who used to run like this for the Gamecocks...he wore #38.....I see a Heisman winner here! Kylan, if you happen to read these post....come be the next Gamecock Heisman Winner!

[pc72687]

I don't think too many recruits read this site. Even though they should because they would see how much they were needed and wanted.

[scunyon]

That kid looks good! But then again, that OL he had was executing some very nice blocking schemes as well, but he looks to be a tough runner that packs a lil bit of cornbread in his arse and can make a hit as well as take one :cool:

[LesR923]

that is sme great footage. He looks like such a natural tb. I loved how well he sees the field and makes cuts. Did you see those tw moves he put on that one kid where he ate it? Man he'd look outstanding in the g&b

[LesR923]

I didn't think OJ shocked anything. I could be wrong but I thought all along he said it was between us and UF after his official here.

[SPURED]

Just filling you guys in. AJ Jones is supposedly not going to be commiting to us. I guess because Florida is losing 2 LB's in Grant and Johnson. just something i read From an "Insider"

[FLgamecockJAX]

Wow! Kylan seems to have nice hands also. Man, I would love to have this guy!

[FLgamecockJAX]

Might Mitchell Commit Tonight?
By Phil Kornblut
USC head coach Steve Spurrier and receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. are having their in home visit with WR Jared Mitchell (6-0 195) of New Iberia, LA tonight. The visit commenced around 10:00 PM Eastern Time. Mitchell visited USC over the weekend and met last night with LSU coach Les Miles. When asked if her son might commit tonight, Mitchell's mother giggled and said she didn't know for sure, but check back later. We'll have another update around 11:15 PM Eastern Time.

[Williams-Brice]

I didn't think OJ shocked anything. I could be wrong but I thought all along he said it was between us and UF after his official here.

He did say that at some point, but before he made his choice, he made it very clear to people in Florida that Florida was by-and-large his favorite.

[RW13]

Might Mitchell Commit Tonight?
By Phil Kornblut
USC head coach Steve Spurrier and receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. are having their in home visit with WR Jared Mitchell (6-0 195) of New Iberia, LA tonight. The visit commenced around 10:00 PM Eastern Time. Mitchell visited USC over the weekend and met last night with LSU coach Les Miles. When asked if her son might commit tonight, Mitchell's mother giggled and said she didn't know for sure, but check back later. We'll have another update around 11:15 PM Eastern Time.
Keep us informed, how good is this guy? 3-star? 4-star?? We definately need WR's...

[OmahaBound]

Mitchell is a 4-star WR, but he's also a great baseball player....so he maybe another Roscoe Crosby. Hopefully he'd be smarter than Roscoe though if he decides to even play college football.

[Williams-Brice]

Let's hope we get him, and he decides to actually come here. He is supposedly good enough to go in the first round.

[SPURED]

Let's hope we get him, and he decides to actually come here. He is supposedly good enough to go in the first round.
Over on rivals they are saying anywhere from the 3rd round to the 6th round. I believe Spurrier is still with Mitchell so hopefully we will find something out soon.

[Williams-Brice]

It's a good sign if Spurrier is still with him. I don't know about you, SPURED, but I'm staying up until I know something!

[SPURED]

It's a good sign if Spurrier is still with him. I don't know about you, SPURED, but I'm staying up until I know something!
Korns website is on Constant refresh!!!!!

[RW13]

I'm staying up with you guys....

[Williams-Brice]

Okay, he didn't commit (according to his dad), but PK is still hoping to talk to him tonight. Both Spurriers were there for 2 hours.

[SPURED]

Mitchell Meets With Spurriers
By Phil Kornblut
WR Jared Mitchell (6-0 195) of New Iberia, LA met Tuesday night for about two hours with USC head coach Steve Spurrier and receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. While there was some anticipation Mitchell might commit during the meeting, he did not according to his father. "There was no commitment," Mr. Mitchell said. "It was just like a little get together." Jared Mitchell was not available a few minutes ago but should be shortly and we'll have a further update with his comments about the meeting. He is also considering LSU.

[RW13]

Cock Tease......., I'm going to bed now....

[SPURED]

dont know exactly what is up with Korns Update because Mike Scarborough of tigerbait.com has said that when he called Mitchells house at 12:15 am our time(11:15 there time) the answering machine picked up. so we probably wont know till sometime later in the morning(or earlier however you want to look at it!) hopefully we will get our 22nd commit sometime this morning!!!!!

[USCGrifter]

http://64.237.99.126/oldclips/Kylan%20Robinson.wmv

Here is footage of Kylan....I vaguely, but do remember watching someone who used to run like this for the Gamecocks...he wore #38.....I see a Heisman winner here! Kylan, if you happen to read these post....come be the next Gamecock Heisman Winner!
That really was a great video. Kylan seems to have a natural knack for finding, and quick enough feet to change direction and get to, the cutback lane. The only things that struck me negatively is that he didn't seem to be committed to running inside and there was not a clip that showed him getting some tough yards that required a lot of contact. However, the teams that he was playing against looked so helpless against him that he seemed to never need a physical inside run.

He somewhat reminds me of Deshaun Foster of the panthers, who always seemed to want to bounce everything to the outside prior to this season. But even so, you just have to admire those moves and is speed, and I don't think the fact that he played some WR hurts him at all.

[pc72687]

I am not sure about picking up a player who might leave for the baseball draft. You think he would go to college because he could play football and BASEBALL and only improve his money making chances in both sports all while getting a free education. But Crosby was a big disappointment for Clemson and I don't think I want one of them for us.

[pc72687]

On a side note, I went back and looked at our past recruiting classes and it is kinda surprising. THe class of 2004 signees many of them aren't on campus any longer. Class of 2003 has the same story. And almost all of our big recruits from 2002 (our big year) never came to campus or didn't pan out (have any of you heard of 5-star DT Randy Jackson or 5-star LB Darrel Slay for example). The reason I say this is all of Steve Spurrier's recruits came to campus (excepting the over signees) and many of them made an impact in some way or are in a position to make an impact soon. While many of Holtz's never came or did nothing.

[Beebop]

That really was a great video. Kylan seems to have a natural knack for finding, and quick enough feet to change direction and get to, the cutback lane. The only things that struck me negatively is that he didn't seem to be committed to running inside and there was not a clip that showed him getting some tough yards that required a lot of contact. However, the teams that he was playing against looked so helpless against him that he seemed to never need a physical inside run.

He somewhat reminds me of Deshaun Foster of the panthers, who always seemed to want to bounce everything to the outside prior to this season. But even so, you just have to admire those moves and is speed, and I don't think the fact that he played some WR hurts him at all.


There was one run on the clip where he actually drug two players for about 4-5 yards after they initially hit him. Also, keep in mind, if I'm not mistaken he competed against 5A competition in Flordia and that is some pretty stout competition. All of which tells me he can compete at the highest level, and the one thing I like the most about him is that he tries to get to the outside. Look at all your great backs in the past, and they all burst through the middle and then get to the outside. They are coached to get to the outside and turn it loose. That was a major grief I had with our RB's at the beginning of the season. They would stay in the middle of the field where there is more defensive support. I just hope we can land this kid. He is going to be a phenomenal player.

[Williams-Brice]

I am not sure about picking up a player who might leave for the baseball draft. You think he would go to college because he could play football and BASEBALL and only improve his money making chances in both sports all while getting a free education. But Crosby was a big disappointment for Clemson and I don't think I want one of them for us.

There would be no harm in signing Jared Mitchell, even if we go over the 25 signee limit. If he decides to not go to the minor leagues, then we have a 4-star WR on campus, and we have to greyshirt or place someone else. If he signs and goes to the minor leagues, then we lost him and don't have to greyshirt or place someone, and LSU doesn't get him at all. There is no harm in signing this kid. Don't compare him to that Crosby tool. Compare him to Sheldon Brown. He played two sports here, and he turned out to be a great football player for us.

[Williams-Brice]

On a side note, I went back and looked at our past recruiting classes and it is kinda surprising. THe class of 2004 signees many of them aren't on campus any longer. Class of 2003 has the same story. And almost all of our big recruits from 2002 (our big year) never came to campus or didn't pan out (have any of you heard of 5-star DT Randy Jackson or 5-star LB Darrel Slay for example). The reason I say this is all of Steve Spurrier's recruits came to campus (excepting the over signees) and many of them made an impact in some way or are in a position to make an impact soon. While many of Holtz's never came or did nothing.

I did the same thing this morning. I asked myself the same thing about Randy Jackson, and the only reason I know of Darrel Slay is because he went to my rival high school. Now, look at guys like Derrick Watson and Demmetris Summers. Holtz had a pathetic attrition rate, and the guys he lost were good football players. I heard that in Holtz's final recruiting class, something like 30% (maybe more) had only one offer from a major school. . .the University of South Carolina.

The important thing is not just winning the recruiting war. You also have to get the kids you "won" onto campus and keep them here. I'm not going to hate on Lou for being a bad recruiter (see Dave Odom if that's what you want). I will critisize Lou for not getting them here in some cases and keeping them here in others. You can look at all of Holtz's classes and compare them with the class from last year and this year. Spurrier is getting guys who will be here for four or five years. It seemed like Lou would just hope for two.

[WoffordCock]

Does anyone have an idea on when Rivals is expected to do their prospect update?

[WoffordCock]

oooh yeah and WB, any new word on Mitchell as of today???

[Williams-Brice]

First of all, I would expect Rivals to update before Signing Day because I heard they were going to do it at the end of the month. I'm not sure about it though.

There has been no word on Jared Mitchell as of today. I have been in class all day, but I have been checking the sites here and there. I don't think Jared will be a Signing Day guy, but I don't think we should stress about right now. With that being said, I think it'll be sooner rather than later. I could be wrong. I'll let you know if I hear anything.

[Williams-Brice]

AJ Jones committed to Florida this morning according to a newspaper in Tampa. Poor Countdown to Signing Day! They just lost their biggest draw for tonight! Well, it sucks that we lost out on this one, but we still have some big name defenders on our board.

[SPURED]

I think i heard Rivals will be updating its player rankings thursday. i may have misread it on the rivals board but ill go double check right now.

[pc72687]

They update it sometime soon. The end of the month seems a little too close to signing day, but this weekend or next could be possible.

[GTmorris1970]

First of all, I would expect Rivals to update before Signing Day because I heard they were going to do it at the end of the month. I'm not sure about it though.

There has been no word on Jared Mitchell as of today. I have been in class all day, but I have been checking the sites here and there. I don't think Jared will be a Signing Day guy, but I don't think we should stress about right now. With that being said, I think it'll be sooner rather than later. I could be wrong. I'll let you know if I hear anything.

I have not heard anything either. Gamecockcentral was abuzz last night, and the Spurrier's were there for a LONG time. They obviously want this guy BAD. It is down between us and LSU. Right now from what I have heard his first and foremost intention is to go to college and get his degree. This would be a HUGE sign for us. I will also let anyone know if I hear anything. They were certainly hoping to hear something today. :cool:

[scfan5338]

On a side note, I went back and looked at our past recruiting classes and it is kinda surprising. THe class of 2004 signees many of them aren't on campus any longer. Class of 2003 has the same story. And almost all of our big recruits from 2002 (our big year) never came to campus or didn't pan out (have any of you heard of 5-star DT Randy Jackson or 5-star LB Darrel Slay for example). The reason I say this is all of Steve Spurrier's recruits came to campus (excepting the over signees) and many of them made an impact in some way or are in a position to make an impact soon. While many of Holtz's never came or did nothing.


I dont know which year it was either 2003 or 2004 but that year, guys that signed with us only have 1 offer some a major Divison 1-A school which was us. That class was a BUST.

[SPURED]

They update it sometime soon. The end of the month seems a little too close to signing day, but this weekend or next could be possible.
They are updating them tomorrow sometime around noon.

[pc72687]

Awesome. I say we are 24-26 after this update if all the players I think get upgraded.

[Beebop]

WB....what other LB's do we have on the board. I know we've already received commits from 4 ( Paulk, Shakalford, Brinkley & Brinkley ). If we did indeed lose out on Jones, what else is there on our board?

[usccop]

Come on, Mr. Mitchell. We need another target for Mr. Thompson to throw to.

[Williams-Brice]

WB....what other LB's do we have on the board. I know we've already received commits from 4 ( Paulk, Shakalford, Brinkley & Brinkley ). If we did indeed lose out on Jones, what else is there on our board?

It's looking like this will be it. It looks like we are going to lose Jones (I'm still watching the show tonight), and we told Alonzo McQueen that we don't have room for him. Those were the last two on the board. I think four is plenty for this class. I think the larger Brinkley twin can play right away, and the other one will contribute.

[usccop]

Hey WB, what is your impression on who might greyshirt, if any are needed? Aside from grades of course.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I think it's to early to makethose kind of decisions. We still have a lot of recruits out there.

[Williams-Brice]

You're right, Bantum. It's far too early. This class could end up with over 27 guys if everything goes right. Rest assured that SOS knows what he is doing.

[Williams-Brice]

According to Countdown to Signing Day, Kylan Robinson will announce on their show next week. I caught a mistake they presented. They said L.T. Walker is visiting Carolina this weekend, but he is not even listed on our board.

[Carolina Cowboy]

csd is slowon thier reporting. LT is off our board.USC is after paterson and ellis at DT.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I really would like to hear usc come out of robinson next week.

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB how good do you think cook is?

[Beebop]

Well, I was hoping you were wrong on this one WB, but congrats to the gators...they pulled another one. What a class! I still think if we end up in the top 25 we will pulled an incredible class considering the fact that we really aren't pushing hard for a lot of skill position players! Let's go Cocks!

[pc72687]

If the gators class lives up to its hype they will be a force to be reckoned with.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Has anybody heard any news on Berry?

[Carolina Cowboy]

Has anybody heard any news on Isom?

[SPURED]

Has anybody heard any news on Isom?
No But Tony Morell of Gamecockcentral has said that Paulk will not take his visit to VT and he is 100% commited to the gamecocks. this is very good news :D

[pc72687]

The well of information is kinda dried up right now.

[SPURED]

Change Of Plans For Hawthorne
By Phil Kornblut
WR Tim Hawthorne (6-3 205) of Birmingham was scheduled to visit Florida this coming weekend, but that trip has been scratched according to his father. And there's a chance, if suitable flight arraingements can be made, that Hawthorne, his parents and younger brother will visit USC this weekend. Mr. Hawthorne said his family has limited time on the weekends for these trips, and it's been difficult finding a schedule that will work for USC because direct flights from Birmingham to Columbia don't exist. He planned to work tonight on trying to schedule a trip to USC. Hawthorne has visited Georgia and Auburn. He will announce January 30th at 4:30 Eastern on ESPN.

SOMEONE GET THIS BOY A TICKET TO COLUMBIA PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Williams-Brice]

WB how good do you think cook is?

When I watch him on film, I see a kid who runs low, has blazing speed relative to most safeties, and amazing acceleration. I think he is good enough to avoid a redshirt, and I honestly think he can play right away. I think he will be a Gamecock along with Kenrick Lewis and Markus White. I really think they'll all stick together, and they are too good to settle for Rutgers.

[Williams-Brice]

Has anybody heard any news on Berry?

Both Spurriers and Ron Cooper visited Mike Berry today at his high school. Mike said the situation turned awkward when our coaching staff ran into Hugh Nall, Auburn's offensive line coach. I can only imagine that! Mike said he is still 50-50 on the two, and he will announce on Monday.

[Williams-Brice]

Has anybody heard any news on Isom?

Be patient on this one. We probably won't know anything until after his Michigan State visit. I expect something semi-early next week. Who knows?

[OmahaBound]

Mitchell Still Torn
By Phil Kornblut
WR Jared Mitchell (6-0 195) of New Iberia, LA is still trying to work out a decision between USC and LSU. "I'm looking at a combination of things," Mitchell said. "When I find that combination, it will have the right feeling. But I'm looking at where there's a chance of playing early. I feel like I have a chance of playing early at both schools. And I'm looking at the team's progression itself, what the team's going to do the next two years." As for the head coaches, Mitchell said that's a tough call, too. "They are both real nice guys," he said. "They tell you the way it is. I respect them for not beating around the bush." And he added that the attraction of playing for the home state school was not that big a deal with him, that if if were, he could have already committed to LSU. Mitchell said he might have a decision late this week or sometime next week.

[Beebop]

Jared Cook needs to start getting phone calls from Mr. Smelley!!!! The only thing I don't like about his comments is that he is only concerned about the next two years, which means he may want to try and jump early. Do we want to invest this much into him if he's going to leave early if given the chance? Also, Mr. Smelley.....go pick up Hawthorne and bring him to Columbia!!

[Dr. Pepper]

Just wondering what the official rule is about travel expenses for recruits on official weekends. Does the University pick up the tab for that? It looks like the whole Hawthorne family wants to come to Columbia. Do the Hawthornes pay or does USC pay? If USC pays, is there something that prohibits them from being picked up by the University jet? If the recruit pays, then how do these guys go all over the country 4 or 5 weekends in a row? I doubt that many families could afford that kind of expense.

[WayzUp]

Just wondering what the official rule is about travel expenses for recruits on official weekends. Does the University pick up the tab for that? It looks like the whole Hawthorne family wants to come to Columbia. Do the Hawthornes pay or does USC pay? If USC pays, is there something that prohibits them from being picked up by the University jet? If the recruit pays, then how do these guys go all over the country 4 or 5 weekends in a row? I doubt that many families could afford that kind of expense.
For an official visit, the university picks up the tab. It's the unofficial visits (like the one Smelley took here for our 1/13 weekend) that has to be paid by the recruit/recruit's family. USC has a jet at their disposal? I did not know that!

I don't think expense is the #1 concern of the Hawthorne's...they must have some weekend obligations in place that they don't want to miss and/or don't want to get back too late on Sunday so Timmy doesn't miss any classes. This is why I'm not too concerned with whether we have a shot at this kid or not. From what I can tell and from everything I've read, Tim himself wants to come visit Columbia in a bad way and it's his parents who are putting up the hurdles for it not to happen. I don't think they should be uninvolved but if he wants to come, they need to loosen up the ties a little bit and let the young man do something on his own & trust that they raised him well enough to make a good decision upon returning home and going over everything with them. This "will-he-come-or-will-he-not" crap is all his parents doing, from what I can tell.

[IrmoCock]

For an official visit, the university picks up the tab. It's the unofficial visits (like the one Smelley took here for our 1/13 weekend) that has to be paid by the recruit/recruit's family. USC has a jet at their disposal? I did not know that!

Yes, USC has a jet at its disposal, but the NCAA says recruits must use commercial flights for official visits. This is a fairly new rule.

[IrmoCock]

Jared Cook needs to start getting phone calls from Mr. Smelley!!!! The only thing I don't like about his comments is that he is only concerned about the next two years, which means he may want to try and jump early. Do we want to invest this much into him if he's going to leave early if given the chance? Also, Mr. Smelley.....go pick up Hawthorne and bring him to Columbia!!

I think you're getting Emmanuel Cook and Jared Mitchell confused.

[Williams-Brice]

Using USC's jet to pick up a recruit would obviously be providing special services for one person (family). If they can't pick up all the recruits that way, which they can't, then they can't pick up one.

[Williams-Brice]

Jared Cook is already here and was redshirted last year. That's why it was so easy for you to merge Jared Mitchell and Emmanuel Cook together. I agree with what you were saying, however. With these wide receivers left on our board, Chris Smelley might become an important recruiter. Chris will have to make that decision on his own because I'm sure there is some rule against SOS telling him to call certain players. That's just an assumption though.

I would love it if these guys came out and said they came to USC because Chris Smelley continually hounded them. That would speak volumes of a young man's leadership capabilities. A young man who hasn't even enrolled here, yet. Let's hope he hounds these guys. The word on the street is that he is hounding Hawthorne.

[Williams-Brice]

I'm so up in the air about Tim Hawthorne. They cancelled his visit last weekend because they didn't want him to miss any school this past Monday. At least that's the reason I was told. The recruits were out of here on Sunday morning/afternoon. Also, I don't know if anyone put 2 and 2 together, but there was no one in school on Monday for MLK Day. Either he goes to a private school, or his parents really don't want him to come here for some reason.

[Williams-Brice]

They are updating them tomorrow sometime around noon.

I cannot wait for this. It's gonna be a good birthday present if I see some of our guys bump up today. You know, we have talked a lot about guys already committed to Carolina being moved up to 4-star and whatnot (Garrett Anderson is a shoe-in to do so), but we haven't mentioned that we have several 4-star guys left on our board who might be moved to 5-star. Patterson could do it. I watched a video last week, and it quoted a scout from Rivals who said Kenrick Ellis could move up to a 5-star by the end of the recruiting process. He said that when the first batch of rankings came out. I'm pumped to see how today turns out and to see how the next 13 days play out!

[Williams-Brice]

I have always been amazed at the differences between Rivals and Scout. For instance, Chris Smelley is #9 by Rivals and #27 by Scout. Here's the one that threw me through a loop: Jared Mitchell is the #20 WR by Rivals. He is the #86 S for Scout. That's an amazing difference. Personally, I've never respected gamecockinsiders.com (Scout), and I just don't look at it as a credible source.

[SPURED]

I have always been amazed at the differences between Rivals and Scout. For instance, Chris Smelley is #9 by Rivals and #27 by Scout. Here's the one that threw me through a loop: Jared Mitchell is the #20 WR by Rivals. He is the #86 S for Scout. That's an amazing difference. Personally, I've never respected gamecockinsiders.com (Scout), and I just don't look at it as a credible source.
yeah from what i have read in different places. they have very little Scouts out looking at film and watching these guys play. Rivals is much more accurate with there rankings.

[Williams-Brice]

The new Rivals Top 100 will be released at 1 today, and the Rivals Top 250 will be released shortly thereafter. New position ranking