USC Recruiting News

[pc72687]

Hey rivals has an article about the 7-8 early enrollees for this class. I am curious who they are and how many are counting against last year's class.

[WayzUp]

Hey rivals has an article about the 7-8 early enrollees for this class. I am curious who they are and how many are counting against last year's class.
The NCAA allows you to go back two recruiting classes in terms of making up for losses via attrition with early enrollees. So all the talent we've lost from the 2005 class can be made up by over-signing this year.

[Williams-Brice]

Guys who will enroll early:

Stephen Garcia
Travian Robertson
Clifton Geathers
Olufemi Ajiboye
Addison Williams
Ryan Broadhead
Larry Freeman

[GatorHunter]

The NCAA allows you to go back two recruiting classes in terms of making up for losses via attrition with early enrollees. So all the talent we've lost from the 2005 class can be made up by over-signing this year.

Are you sure? I thought you could only go back one season... :mellow:

[TaySC]

December 21, 2006
Culliver Almost A Gamecock
By Phil Kornblut
It appears to be just a matter of time before DB Chris Culliver (6-1 190) of Garner, NC announces a commitment to USC. "I'm thinking about South Carolina and how I fit in to their school," Culliver said Thursday afternoon. "I just haven't made it (the decision) 100% final. It will be sometime soon, I know that. There will be nothing between now and Christmas, but maybe after Christmas. I might wait until my official visit." Culliver is scheduled to visit Florida January 13th and USC January 20th. He has no other visits planned at this time.

This is icing on the cake guys!

December 21, 2006
Wright Close On Decision

By Phil Kornblut
LB K.J. Wright (6-4 220) of Olive Branch, MS is still working on a decision between USC and Mississippi State, and he might get it done in a few days. "Hopefully this week," he said Thursday afternoon. "This week or next week. I want to do it before Christmas." Wright said the two schools remain dead even in his mind. "It's just 50-50," he said. "I'm looking at the position I would play which would be linebacker, how much they show interest in me, and just the kind of program they have. South Carolina is a winning program. Mississippi State is upcoming, plust they are close to home." Wright said he talked today with Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier. "It went good," he said of the conversation. "He told me he wants me pretty bad." Wright talked yesterday with Mississippi State coach Sylvester Croome.

"This week or next week" and he wants to do it BEFORE Christmas? :laugh:

[Williams-Brice]

Woohoo! That's great news! Christmas cometh early and late for the Gamecocks it appears!

GatorHunter, I think you are correct.

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB is geathers still waiting for his grades to make it public?

[Williams-Brice]

I don't think that's the case. If you can remember back to last year, then you'll remember that we really didn't know much about Clifton at that point, either. His family is reportedly impossible to reach. We weren't kept up with his situation last year because there wasn't anyone (PK, Rivals, Scout, etc.) who could reach him. They played it very close to the vest, and that's okay. Well, the same thing is happening right now. He has committed, but we're not going to hear about it until someone finally answers the phone when it rings. You may be right in assuming that he'll finally make it public when he is cleared, but I see his situation this year mirroring his situation last year in terms of how they are publicly approaching things.

[pc72687]

Thanks for answering those questions. That is a very solid group of early enrollees because almost all of them could contribute next year.

[scfan5338]

WB, are we really going to take Wright?? Looks like we are tight with the scholly but obviously we gotta trust coach spur cause he can make something out of nothing.

[SPURED]

WB, are we really going to take Wright?? Looks like we are tight with the scholly but obviously we gotta trust coach spur cause he can make something out of nothing.
we could but i think they Shock the world Recruit is none other than Scotty Cooper. so if im right i dont see us taking Wright.

[Williams-Brice]

Wright is a last resort kind of guy. I don't think we'd accept his offer as of right now.

[pc72687]

That is a big guess there spured but one that would just make this year even better. Beat Clemson and take one of their budding stars!

[TrueGCFan]

I will be very shocked if we get Cooper. He's either Clemson or WV.

[JerryBeeds]

I will be very shocked if we get Cooper. He's either Clemson or WV.

I've heard that LSU is coming after Cooper hard right now. I'd much rather he go to LSU than Chumpson.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I would have to agree I don't see cooper coming to USC. Who knows we are on a roll.

[Williams-Brice]

I was wrong about Wright. His offer is commitable. Our staff really wants him. I'm also hearing that Tennessee now holds a slim lead over us for Brimfield. He supposedly has said that we are the only school trying to hurry his commitment. I'm also hearing that there may be some legs to the Scotty Cooper rumors. I personally think he'll end up at either LSU or West Virginia, but it sounds like he may be considering us. He is definitely a prospect we would take regardless of the timing of his commitment.

[TaySC]

December 22, 2006
Cooper Sets USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut
Shrine Bowl LB Scotty Cooper (6-1 200) of Lake City has scheduled an official visit with USC for January 20th. Cooper has been a Clemson commitment since June but has continued to talk with USC recruiters as well as recruiters from other schools. He has made official visits to LSU and West Virginia. He will visit Clemson January 13th.

[Williams-Brice]

Awesome deal. Listen to the bell, Clemson. It tolls for thee.

[pc72687]

The world keeps turning and the gamecocks grow stronger and stronger every day.

[pc72687]

I just noticed we have 6 current commits and a possible 8 total (Dunlap and Clements) on the roster of the All-American bowl. This beats out all the teams ranked ahead of us, teams like Texas, USC, OSU, and UF which have a good bit less. This tells me more about our class then the ranking and stars.

[larryt4111]

While Lou JR’s team get their butts kicked, the announcers gave the following link.

2007 Preseason Rankings.

I know, I know, the 2006 season isn't over yet. but the holidays are here and with time on our hands, this is brain fodder for a day or two.

http://www.nationalchamps.net/2007/earlybird/

[NineInchCock]

From Phil Kornblut :

Clemson commitment LB Scotty Cooper (6-1 200) of Lake City said Saturday afteroon he will not take any more official visits other than his scheduled trip to Clemson January 13th. Cooper has made official visits to LSU and West Virginia. Friday he said he was considering making a visit to USC January 20th.

Oh well, that sure was short lived. No way you can complain about the recruiting class though!

[Williams-Brice]

Oh well. I would love to have him, but as I was telling Dr. Pepper last night, I couldn't care less who Clemson gets on defense. We all saw how Spurrier picked apart that "superior" defense they fielded this year. Methinks it's still not over with Scotty. We probably won't get him, but I think he may end up at LSU or WVU in the end.

[pc72687]

I thought all that was seeming too good to be true, but we'll be fine either way.

[scfan5338]

While Lou JR’s team get their butts kicked, the announcers gave the following link.

2007 Preseason Rankings.

I know, I know, the 2006 season isn't over yet. but the holidays are here and with time on our hands, this is brain fodder for a day or two.

http://www.nationalchamps.net/2007/earlybird/

Why not man I love to see us up in the Top 25. I for one was actually wondering where we will be ranked in the pre-season poll. Oh yeah and Andy Boyd is coming back next year, that site has it wrong I'm pretty sure. I think Georgia should be higher than #23 cause I think they along with UT will be the team to beat in the East. Our schedule is pretty good next year and will be exciting to see how this talent we got this year is on the field next year. I can't wait.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I would like to wish everybody a merry Christmas. This has been a great year and I think nexy year will be even better.-Cowboy

[Williams-Brice]

Merry Christmas to you, as well. May the Lord bless you and keep you during this holiday season.

[TaySC]

Merry Christmas guys and God bless you and yours!

[gamecockvic]

Merry Christmas to you, as well. May the Lord bless you and keep you during this holiday season.

May God bless you and your family! Thanks for all of the great info you give us! I don't post much, but visit here every day, at least 3 times a day during recruiting! My 13 year old son is becoming a recruiting freak!

Everyone have a safe trip to Memphis.

Go Cocks!

[uscrules]

Merry Christmas to all and I would like to take this opporunity to say thanks for all for the information. Here is wishing every Gamecock fan a successful bowl game and to bigger and better things in 2007.

[SPURED]

Merry Xmas everyone!!!! i hope everyone stays safe and spends quality time with your familys because that is the most important thing in life.....

now back to the Second most important thing..... I was Wrong about the Shock the world guy. that is Culliver and he is all but ours. it seems as if we are a long shot to sway cooper. but i am hearing some good things about Bynes. we could still be in it with him. we are also in pretty good shape with Gibson. Wright is also a player the coaches want he has good size and with good coaching he could be a pretty good LB. Look for Dunlap to make his comittment public on Thursday. catch you guys later and again Merry X-mas!!!!

[TaySC]

and when should we expect Getahers, LeCorn and Allen to become official?

[SPURED]

and when should we expect Getahers, LeCorn and Allen to become official?
im not sure on Geathers but Lecorn and Allen will make it official when they go back to school. they want to do it when all there friends can be there. so they are waiting for the holidays to be over. from what ive heard you really dont need to worry about any of them. they are a done deal

[Williams-Brice]

SPURED, I heard that Brandon Gibson told someone that he was going to Alabama regardless of their coaching situation. Have you heard something different? Tay, don't wait on Geathers. It's in the hands of the NCAA Clearinghouse, and we know how that group works. We could hear something tomorrow, or we could hear something January 16th, the day classes start back for us. It's just a matter of time. He'll get cleared evenutally and will be added to the commitment list as soon as someone fro Rivals or Scout can reach him. Geathers, Lecorn, and Allen have already committed to our coaches, so there is no need to worry.

[Williams-Brice]

Merry Christmas, everyone. May the birth of our Lord and the presence of your family bring you joy on this day and throughout the new year. I hope to see y'all in Memphis. For now, I gotta get back to watching A Christmas Story on TBS.

[pc72687]

Merry Christmas everyone. Hopefully everyone is enjoying these holidays here and getting ready for the next big day on the calender Dec. 29th!

[SPURED]

SPURED, I heard that Brandon Gibson told someone that he was going to Alabama regardless of their coaching situation. Have you heard something different? Tay, don't wait on Geathers. It's in the hands of the NCAA Clearinghouse, and we know how that group works. We could hear something tomorrow, or we could hear something January 16th, the day classes start back for us. It's just a matter of time. He'll get cleared evenutally and will be added to the commitment list as soon as someone fro Rivals or Scout can reach him. Geathers, Lecorn, and Allen have already committed to our coaches, so there is no need to worry.
i heard his mother absolutely LOVED everything about us. heard she was VERY impressed with Coach Spurrier. im not saying we will get him but he is someone we shouldnt rule out at this point.

[WayzUp]

im not sure on Geathers but Lecorn and Allen will make it official when they go back to school. they want to do it when all there friends can be there. so they are waiting for the holidays to be over. from what ive heard you really dont need to worry about any of them. they are a done deal

John Brantley committing to UF took them out of the 'done deal' category, IMO. We'll see, we'll see...
:unsure:

[GatorHunter]

John Brantley committing to UF took them out of the 'done deal' category, IMO. We'll see, we'll see...
:unsure:

I would be very surprised if Allen and/or Lecorn even had committable offers from UF...they are great players, but they play positions that are "full"...UF is likely finished with the DBs and the only WR UF will likely "offer" are Thompson, Paige, and Tolliver...we only have 5-6 spots left...these will likely go to DL and LBs with one, maybe two of the above WR. Allen and Lecorn will be Cocks...book it.

[pc72687]

I have heard that at least one of them might not qualify anyhow. It be a sign and place deal.

[TrueGCFan]

So what's the word with all the players coming in Jan. I know we have 3 that have already signed. What do we know about Garica and others?

[Williams-Brice]

Check out the post I had a few days ago about who will enroll early.

Guys, Lecorn and Allen are locks to Carolina. As GH stated, Florida will not offer. They don't even have an offer from Florida, much less a commitable offer.

Carlos Dunlap was rumored to be announcing his college choice on December 28. However, I'm hearing that won't happen. I really haven't heard anything else on the situation, but it's nothing to worry about.

[Darren]

How many more commitments can we take. Hope we have enough spots available for a few suprises. This is my first post. I've been reading for months and now I'm on board.

[IrmoCock]

How many more commitments can we take. Hope we have enough spots available for a few suprises. This is my first post. I've been reading for months and now I'm on board.
Welcome to the fold. It's a big step moving from lurker to poster.

[GatorHunter]

Check out the post I had a few days ago about who will enroll early.

Guys, Lecorn and Allen are locks to Carolina. As GH stated, Florida will not offer. They don't even have an offer from Florida, much less a commitable offer.

Carlos Dunlap was rumored to be announcing his college choice on December 28. However, I'm hearing that won't happen. I really haven't heard anything else on the situation, but it's nothing to worry about.

Haven't heard anything new on Dunlap...I saw Lecorn play in the play-offs when his team took on Blountstown...he is an awesome player, definitely a man amongst boys in that game.

[Gibber]

It's great to be a gamecock in Tn. My first post.

[scunyon]

Merry Christmas, everyone. May the birth of our Lord and the presence of your family bring you joy on this day and throughout the new year. I hope to see y'all in Memphis. For now, I gotta get back to watching A Christmas Story on TBS.

OMG, I watched that movie 7 times while wrapping gifts and playing Santa Claus :blink:

[Williams-Brice]

How many more commitments can we take. Hope we have enough spots available for a few suprises.

We would like to sign around 32. However, we can only bring in 27 of those potential 32. This staff will not turn down a great player, and most of the uncommitted guys we are going after right now fall into that category. We've got plenty of spots.

This is my first post. I've been reading for months and now I'm on board.

Welcome!

[TrueGCFan]

What's the deal with Scout ranking QR as a 1 star. I'm guessing they haven't seen him yet. Slack.

[Darren]

I saw today where Rice was submitting paperwork to the nfl advisory board. If he leaves who out of the 2007 class can come in and take his place? I know we have McKinley,Moe Brown, and Freddie Brown but who will be our jump ball guy?

[pc72687]

This is a silent period correct? So there shouldn't be too much new news.

[roosterbooster]

I saw today where Rice was submitting paperwork to the nfl advisory board. If he leaves who out of the 2007 class can come in and take his place? I know we have McKinley,Moe Brown, and Freddie Brown but who will be our jump ball guy?

Jared Cook 6'5" with a 35" vertical when he got here. Has added a few pounds but still appears to be able to get up. He had a few drops but every freshman ain't Sidney Rice.

Freddie Brown 6'4" not sure on the vertical, bobbled a few but showed some really good body control in the air.

Jason Barnes 6'4" 30 inch vertical, very solid performer in Shrine Bowl and during practice.

Mark Barnes only 6'2" with a 28" vertical but great body control and can really hang in the air, but hopefully he can play the other side of the ball.

Matt Clements 6'2" with a 33" vertical and great speed.

Larry Freeman 6'2" unknown vertical but excellent body control in the air.

Joseph Hills 6'4" big, mean, and strong is a great way to be when you are going up for a jump ball.

And more importantly if Sidney is truly not going if he is not a top 10 pick we are looking for the other bookend to the set, not the new guy. Sidney is probably looking at second round maybe even third depending on what underclassmen come out. I think Sidney will be extremely successful at the next level, but his speed will hurt him in the draft.

[Williams-Brice]

This is a silent period correct? So there shouldn't be too much new news.

You are right about it meing a quiet period. Until above two weeks into January (I believe), the only people who can make phone calls are the recruits. However, coaches can still send text messages, so there is still a ton of contact and a good amount of commitments.

[TrueGCFan]

Are any of our commits or other recruits coming to the Liberty Bowl?

[LedCock]

If any of you missed it before, you can watch the Shrine bowl again today at 12:30 p.m. on css.

[Darren]

Thanks roosterbooster. I'm waiting on Culliver and Dunlap to commit. This is an awesome class and our coaches are earning their pay.

[Dr. Pepper]

You are right about it meing a quiet period. Until above two weeks into January (I believe), the only people who can make phone calls are the recruits. However, coaches can still send text messages, so there is still a ton of contact and a good amount of commitments.
Hey WB, you have had several typos in your recent posts. What did you do, shoot your eye out or something?

[lacene]

he must be trying to finish off that left-over eggnog all by himself. :D

[TaySC]

Auguste is down to 3 according to PK: USC, WV and Wake.

[gamecockdroc]

Tay, was he indicating any leans or slight favorites? I always here us but you know how things can change after official visits. I also saw the article on rivals but I'm not a paying member.

[TaySC]

Tay, was he indicating any leans or slight favorites? I always here us but you know how things can change after official visits. I also saw the article on rivals but I'm not a paying member.

I'm not a paying member either and have always felt like we needed to get this guy.

Just guessing, I wouldn't think he would go to Wake, but I could be wrong......

I hope we get him, but who knows at this point?

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB what you think about this guy? It's late start but he seems to be a hell of a LB.December 27, 2006
JUCO LB Might Get USC Look
By Phil Kornblut
Former Florida recruit LB Brian Ellis (6-2 230) of the College of the Sequoias, CA might soon be pursued by USC. Ellis said Wednesday that his assistant coach, Andy Segal, has talked with the Gamecocks. "He told me they are interested," Ellis said. "I haven't really talked to their coaches. But it is close to home and that's one I'm going to look into." Ellis said he has offers from Ole Miss, Louisville, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida State and Southern Cal. He has an official visit scheduled with Louisville for January 13th. He has not set any other visits. Ellis graduates in May. He's a native of Daytona Beach. This season Ellis had 65 tackles and 5 sacks.

[gamecockdroc]

Bynes Decision After USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut
LB Josh Bynes (6-3 231) of Lauderdale Lakes, FL has one visit left on his agenda...USC January 20th. He has visited Iowa, Auburn and Louisville. All four teams remain alive with Bynes. He plans to cut the list to three after the USC visit and then go from there to a final decision. "Basically I'm going to with what school I feel very comfortable at and has the best defensive scheme for me," Bynes said Wednesday night. "It will be wheres I feel like I'm at home. All my schools are out of state, so I want to feel like I'm at home. I want to be a math teacher and I want to be in an environment that will help me and have academics ahead of football." Byrnes received a text message from his Gamecock recruiter Robert Gillespie Wednesday and plans to give him a call soon. He last talked to Gillespie prior to the start of the dead period. USC head coach Steve Spurrier made his in home visit with Bynes in November. This season Bynes finished with 110 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 caused fumbles and 3 recovered fumbles.


We're his last visit, could be a good sign for us, I'm pretty sure if everything pans out with out expected commits we will still have room for him in the end.

Thoughts?

[gamecockdroc]

WB what you think about this guy? It's late start but he seems to be a hell of a LB.December 27, 2006
JUCO LB Might Get USC Look
By Phil Kornblut
Former Florida recruit LB Brian Ellis (6-2 230) of the College of the Sequoias, CA might soon be pursued by USC. Ellis said Wednesday that his assistant coach, Andy Segal, has talked with the Gamecocks. "He told me they are interested," Ellis said. "I haven't really talked to their coaches. But it is close to home and that's one I'm going to look into." Ellis said he has offers from Ole Miss, Louisville, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida State and Southern Cal. He has an official visit scheduled with Louisville for January 13th. He has not set any other visits. Ellis graduates in May. He's a native of Daytona Beach. This season Ellis had 65 tackles and 5 sacks. Walker and Rank have been dismissed from the team, probably permanent, with the Brinkley's both being seniors,(thinking Casper will move back to Linebacker in the spring), we have two great commits at linebacker so far but I would think that we could use a juco for immediate impact to replace Dakota.

[pc72687]

Walker wasn't dismissed from the team unless this was a very recent, as in yesterday, thing. And Rank never left the team, only considered it.

[pc72687]

Sorry spoke to early:

MEMPHIS, Tenn. USC coach Steve Spurrier sent a pair of backup players home Tuesday for an undisclosed violation of team rules.

Outside linebacker Dakota Walker and tailback Taylor Rank will miss Friday's Liberty Bowl against Houston, and their future status is uncertain.

"I don't need to comment on them," Spurrier said Wednesday. "I don't like to publicize guys that have to have some issues and so forth."

Spurrier put the team through extra running Tuesday because a few players "were out having a big time" Monday night after the team arrived in Memphis, but said no one broke curfew.

Spurrier said the status of the two players would "be determined by our university policy."

Walker, a sophomore from Mays Landing, N.J., quit the team for a week in November and was considering a transfer because of a lack of playing time. When Spurrier allowed him to return before the Middle Tennessee game, he said Walker was on "his last chance."

Walker did not record a sack in 11 games this season after tying for the team lead with 3.5 sacks in 2005. Because of an injury to starter Cody Wells, Walker had been elevated to second on the depth chart behind sophomore Yvan Banag.

Rank, a redshirt freshman from Vancouver, Wash., rushed for 101 yards on 15 carries in a 45-6 win over Florida Atlantic after starter Cory Boyd was injured and Mike Davis and Bobby Wallace were disciplined for breaking curfew.

Rank, whose other five carries were in mop-up duty against Middle Tennessee, planned to transfer to Montana State last offseason before changing his mind.

[lacene]

sounds like Walker has burned his last "get out of jail" card, but I'm not sure about Rank, unless the undisclosed violations were so serious. I read before about Rank's considerations of leaving, but was he in the doghouse with Spurrier before this?

It may be final straw for Rank to transfer, maybe not. But it does look like Walker is in some bad soup......

[TaySC]

Auguste is likey to be commitment #32...... yes, I said 32.

[Darren]

TaySC who are the others that you feel sure we will get? Hope it is Culliver and Dunlap.

[palmettocock]

TaySC who are the others that you feel sure we will get? Hope it is Culliver and Dunlap.
I think its money in the bank Darren!!! :thumbs:

[GamecockDieHard]

If Rank and Walker leave the team, which I don't have an opinion one way or the other, what happens to their scholarships?

[scunyon]

Hopefully they open up for someone else.

[TaySC]

I am not sure, but I think we get:

Geathers
Auguste
Lecorne
Allen
Culliver
Dunlap (decent shot at)

As far as the loss of the 2 players....

We are on probation still and can have a total of 83 schollies instead of the 85 normally allotted.

These 2 being gone will free up 2 schollies, but both were recruited 2 years ago, so I don't think any new recruits could be counted back to take those guys place to help us take more commitments THIS year.

[SPURED]

I am not sure, but I think we get:

Geathers
Auguste
Lecorne
Allen
Culliver
Dunlap (decent shot at)

As far as the loss of the 2 players....

We are on probation still and can have a total of 83 schollies instead of the 85 normally allotted.

These 2 being gone will free up 2 schollies, but both were recruited 2 years ago, so I don't think any new recruits could be counted back to take those guys place to help us take more commitments THIS year.

actually we can have our allotted 85 schollys back now. that was in affect for the 2005-2006 seasons so we can have our schollys back now. however we have 1 more year of probation where we will be under the watchful eye of the NCAA.

[SPURED]

is there any doubt where Q. Richardson is going to be playing ball???
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/eclipse5161/QuintonRichardsonsnewDo.jpg

[Williams-Brice]

Tay, was he indicating any leans or slight favorites? I always here us but you know how things can change after official visits. I also saw the article on rivals but I'm not a paying member.

Auguste is favoring Carolina. Sorry it took me so long to get to this. I've been on vacation.

[Williams-Brice]

WB what you think about this guy? It's late start but he seems to be a hell of a LB.December 27, 2006
JUCO LB Might Get USC Look
By Phil Kornblut
Former Florida recruit LB Brian Ellis (6-2 230) of the College of the Sequoias, CA might soon be pursued by USC. Ellis said Wednesday that his assistant coach, Andy Segal, has talked with the Gamecocks. "He told me they are interested," Ellis said. "I haven't really talked to their coaches. But it is close to home and that's one I'm going to look into." Ellis said he has offers from Ole Miss, Louisville, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida State and Southern Cal. He has an official visit scheduled with Louisville for January 13th. He has not set any other visits. Ellis graduates in May. He's a native of Daytona Beach. This season Ellis had 65 tackles and 5 sacks.

I honestly don't know anything about him. He just came onto the scene for us, and I haven't watched any film on him.

[cocky4ever]

is there any doubt where Q. Richardson is going to be playing ball???
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/eclipse5161/QuintonRichardsonsnewDo.jpg
Thats the best haircut I've ever seen!! :ohmy: :thumpsup:

[SPURED]

Thats the best haircut I've ever seen!! :ohmy: :thumpsup:
i thought so too. maybe thats how is recruiting guys for us.

[scfan5338]

We need help in the secondary realllly badly. Houston exposed us even more in the bowl game.

[pc72687]

Yeah, but Houston had the #5 offense in the nation, so you must keep that in perspective.

[GatorHunter]

I honestly don't know anything about him. He just came onto the scene for us, and I haven't watched any film on him.


http://scout.scout.com/a.z?s=168&p=8&c=1&nid=1285389

Ellis committed to UF in '05....he was a 3* TE/LB prospect with a huge upside...his coaches kinda fibbed to the UF coaches saying he would qualify, but in the end, he didn't. Should be a good player, though.

[lacene]

We need help in the secondary realllly badly. Houston exposed us even more in the bowl game.

was it a case of SC's secondary being out-talented, or were they just not playing too hard? They seemed to play outstanding in the second half....

[scfan5338]

Yeah, but Houston had the #5 offense in the nation, so you must keep that in perspective.


Yeah I know that but still, we cant stop the run nor the pass on defense. We have to step up on offense if we want to compete for the east next year.

I think with new DT and DE's coming in this year, both will get help because the secondary wont have to cover for a long time.

[TaySC]

I think our secondary is very weak personally. Even Fred Bennett was overrated in my opinion as he was burnt early and often when we played against good passing teams.

I think help is on the way, but we are fortunate this year that Clemson didn't have a real QB or we would all be sulking over that losing streak to them being even longer.

[Williams-Brice]

We only had 3 cornerbacks on our roster this year. The problem next year will not be numbers, as we will fix the depth chart with this class, but it will be experience. By the way, things are looking good with Culliver.

[WayzUp]

By all accounts, Pope should be an insta-starter for us at corner & with the rest we have coming in/likely to commit to us, I'm with WB in thinking our depth will be there; it'll just be a matter of having the experience. A key injury or two in our secondary will really hurt next year which is why having deep recruiting classes every year is vital in a conference as competitive as the SEC.

[uscrules]

I think too many people underestimate the value of a good conerback. It takes more than speed to be a good corner. Look at Thomas, he has the speed but lacks the ability to tackle well, and to be in the right position to either time the contact to knock the ball down or intercept it. Only experience at the position allows you to stick with the man and always make the right decision. Getting someone that has played it is a plus.

[pc72687]

I am ready for Pope to step into the mix. Question, did Thomas play in the bowl game, because I don't remember seeing him.

[uscrules]

I am ready for Pope to step into the mix. Question, did Thomas play in the bowl game, because I don't remember seeing him.
Yes, all you need to do is remember a lot of the bad plays on defense, he will be there.

[IrmoCock]

Yes, all you need to do is remember a lot of the bad plays on defense, he will be there.
Actually, he did play and he help his own. Houston spread us out all night long with 5 wides leaving us in man to man across the field. They were able to exploit our depth problems in the secondary. As far as I can remember, CT wasn't victimized on any of their big plays. What Houston did was target whoever Hampton or Woodson were covering. This happened quite a few times. CT and CM gave up receptions, but they both held their own. That's what playing corner is all about. Every corner gets beat. Even Bennett got beat a few times. It's part of the position.

I think we need to lay off of Carlos Thomas and realize he just finished his first full season of playing corner on the college level. I remember Jonathan Joseph and Fred Bennett getting beaten fairly regularly last year. It comes with the territory. Give the kid a chance. He's got the makings of a very good corner if we'll just give him (and the coaches) a little patience.

[gamecockdroc]

Thank you, Irmo, I am also sick and tired of everyone giving CT a hard time, he's going to be a good player for us next year.

[FLgamecockJAX]

A great DLine can make a secondary look better than they are. We will be inexperienced in the secondary next year, but hopefully some of our young DL's will make a huge impact. If they can stuff the run and put instant heat on the QB, there won't be much time to expose the secondary. 2007's secondary will be young, but full of athleticism.

[uscrules]

Thank you, Irmo, I am also sick and tired of everyone giving CT a hard time, he's going to be a good player for us next year.
I don't want to get in a pizzing contest with you over this, but he does not tackle well and he does not cover well. Emanual Cook is better than him, and he is a freshman. I am not on his case, he has not been a good corner this year, that is why Splurrier benched him. I hope he does work hard in the off season and come back next year to be the best corner we have. We need that, but this past year he was bad.

[Kelly333baseball]

I don't want to get in a pizzing contest with you over this, but he does not tackle well and he does not cover well. Emanual Cook is better than him, and he is a freshman. I am not on his case, he has not been a good corner this year, that is why Splurrier benched him. I hope he does work hard in the off season and come back next year to be the best corner we have. We need that, but this past year he was bad.
I totally agree....he's a gamecock and I'm behind him 100%. However, his tackling and cover skills are somewhat suspect....reference the Arkansas game. He looked totally out of his element. I wish him the best and hope he improves....time will tell!

[Williams-Brice]

This may be long, but I encourage everyone to read it.

There are two different forms of correction when it comes to improving your football team. Some things can be corrected by coaching during the season: moving players around, shuffling the depth chart, etc. Other things have to be fixed by recruiting. In defense of Carlos, there was no one to take his spot this year, and he/we did not benefit from that at all. He proved many, many times that this was his first year playing the position. There was absolutely no way whatsoever to fix this problem during the season. Spurrier asked Nix about mid-season if there was anyone else who could play in the secondary, and Nix told him that this is all we had and that the best players were being played. Spurrier told him that he knew the depth situation and that Nix would only play the best, and Spurrier told him he was just frustrated and wanted to win.

We came out of this season with 8 wins when we had a pretty poor secondary. They deceived most people early in the year with great statistics, but they were really not good at all. Truth be told, most of the teams we played in the first half of the year could run the ball down our throat, and they didn't need to pass it at all. As our run defense grew up during the second half of the year, our lack of depth and ability was shown in the secondary.

Now, we are in the recruiting phase. This problem can be fixed, and it's going to be fixed with this class. Don't read that and think I'm saying we are going to have an All-World secondary next season because nothing could be further from the truth. The way this problem is going to be fixed is via depth. Sam Pope will supposedly come in with the ability to start. Things are looking good with Akeem Auguste. Jamire Williams turned down an offer from Ohio State, among others. Addison Williams will compete for a starting job, and he will be a burner.

With three cornerbacks on your roster, it is impossible to have the kind of tryout you want to ensure the best players are starting. There is a 100% chance of your entire depth chart playing in each game when you have three cornerbacks. However, next year will start with a fierce battle at the cornerback position. There is no doubt that we will start the best players, regardless of classification. They may not be in the top half of the SEC, as they were this year, but I can promise you that they will be better.

What does this mean for Carlos Thomas? I don't know. What I know is that there is a spot for him on this team. He has shown he can be a difference maker on offense, and I know that Spurrier puts his best players on the field. If Carlos can play somewhere, then he will be on the field next year. Plain and simple.

[TrueGCFan]

Carlos started slow and got burned a lot. But if you look at the last 4 games of the season he did more than hold his own. I think he's finally started to figure the position out. In fact he made a couple of good hits in bowl game. I will not be surprized at all if he works during the off season like the coaching staff asks he'll start next year.

[Darren]

Korn said last night that we wer no longer interested in Akeem Auguste because of others on our board that looked good. Any thought to why we would give up on him unless we no for sure we are getting others? Also if Nick goes to Bama so will WR Brandon Gibson.

[roosterbooster]

We've had a lot of talented sophomore D Backs who weren't very good as sophomores and by their senior year they are high draft picks. Carlos should not have been a starter this year if the cupboard were full, but he did. Don't right him off because he had to be out there before he was ready.

[Williams-Brice]

Korn said last night that we wer no longer interested in Akeem Auguste because of others on our board that looked good. Any thought to why we would give up on him unless we no for sure we are getting others? Also if Nick goes to Bama so will WR Brandon Gibson.

Despite what many people have been reporting, we were never really in it with Gibson. He told someone after his visit to Carolina that he was going to Alabama regardless of what happened with their coaching situation.

[pc72687]

Yeah, Gibson never seemed to be headed hear, unless Alabama up and decided that the coaching search was too hard and woud cancel the football program for a couple of years. But when you look at our WRs (currently and incoming) then missing out on one will not put us back any.

Now, to beat a dead horse even more, Carlos messed up but also had some good moments, the Clemson game comes to mind, but that can be said about every player on our team. As soon as that gets fixed we will start winning those close games more often.

[pc72687]

Sorry but can someone summerize the article about how all our recruits are doing in the o/d all star game. It is on rivals.

[JDStud6]

This is totally not the right thread for this but... Bennett was over-rated all year long people. I saw him get burned in the TN and ARK games for huge 50 yd passes that lost us the game. He had a lot of hype and had some moments, but for the most part I was not impressed at all.

To be on topic...the recruiting looks good, I cant wait to see these guys play! :)

JD

[Williams-Brice]

Sorry but can someone summerize the article about how all our recruits are doing in the o/d all star game. It is on rivals.

They are doing fantastic, and the fact that we lead for Culliver has been made public knowledge. Carlos Dunlap has the most potential out of anyone at the game right now. Garcia is streaky. If he's on, then he's awesome, but he makes a lot of mistakes when he is off. Cliff Matthews is too fast for all of the offensive tackles there with the exception of Quintin Richardson, who is the clear-cut #1 tackle there. Joseph Hill had to dust off some cobwebs, and he has looked very good since yesterday. Brian Maddox has been a bit slower than the other two running backs there, but he seemed to catch up this morning.

There will be no more practices, but the game is tomorrow night at 7:00 on ESPNU.

[TaySC]

January 02, 2007
Allen, Lecorn Announcement Next Week
By Phil Kornblut
DB Antonio Allen (6-1 195) and WR Dion Lecorn (6-0 205) of Ocala, FL return to school Wednesday from their holiday break. And the pair will announce commitments to USC next week, probably next Thursday, according to their coach Kerwin Bell who was named Tuesday as the new head coach at Jacksonville University. "We're going to get together tomorrow and discuss things," Bell said. "It (the announcement) probably will be next week, probably Thursday. I've got to leave this week for the Army All America game," where his quarterback John Brantley IV is playing. Allen said Tuesday night he and Lecorn remain steadfast in their plan to commit to USC though they will visit South Florida January 13th. Allen said he spoke with recruiter Steve Spurrier Jr. on Christmas Day, and he watched the Gamecocks' bowl win with great interest, especially the play of the defense. "They pulled it off, it was a great win for them," he said. "In the secondary, they can't tackle all that well. I'm a good open field tackler so I can help them."

Gooo Cocks!!!!!!!

[TaySC]

January 02, 2007
Ingram Sticking With UNC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

USC commitment LB Melvin Ingram (6-3 240) said Tuesday night he remains committed to USC but he will take his previously scheduled official visit to North Carolina January 20th. "My commitment to South Carolina is still very solid," Ingram said. "I will look hard at North Carolina. I don't know what to expect (on the visit)." Ingram said he talked with USC recruiter Fred Chatham last week and he's also talked with his North Carolina recruiter. Asked of there's any way North Carolina can change his commitment, Ingram said, "There's no way they can change it."

Seems to contradict himself in this...........

[Williams-Brice]

I've got a quote that Dunlap said about an hour and a half ago. When asked what friends he had made throughout the recruiting process, he gave these names: Quintin Richardson, Brian Maddox, Stephen Garcia, Donald Langley, Cliff Matthews, Cory Boyd, Eric Norwood and Sidney Rice.

Donald Langley is a Tennessee commit, and I think you recognize the rest of the names.

[pc72687]

Well there are an awful lot of current and upcoming gamecocks, looking good there.

[scfan5338]

WB, what are the chances that Ryan Williams, DB out of AL commits to the Gamecock and Spur accept his commitment??

[Williams-Brice]

I haven't heard anything about it, other than what PK has reported. This sounds like a new development.

[OmahaBound]

PK's updates for the evening:

USC Tightens Race For Gibson
By Phil Kornblut
WR Brandon Gibson (6-2 190) of Mobile, AL said Wednesday night USC has pulled even with Alabama in the race for his services. "It's neck and neck," he said. "I'm still very interested in South Carolina. Coach Cooper keeps in touch with me whenever he can call. They are still recruiting me pretty hard and that's why I'm still interested." Gibson was, of course, very interested in the hiring of Nick Saban by Alabama. "It makes my decision harder," he said. "If they didn't hire a coach who didn't have a good past and didn't know what he was doing, I wouldn't feel too good about going." Gibson made his official visit to USC in December. He will visit Auburn January 13th and will also make trips to Alabama, Arkansas and West Virginia. USC head coach Steve Spurrier will make his in home visit in a couple of weeks according to Gibson.

And a little bball news...

Jones Leaving Syracuse
By Phil Kornblut
Former Lower Richland star 6-8 Mike Jones has asked for his release from Syracuse for the purpose of transfering according to a source familiar with his situation. Jones is back at his home in Hopkins. Jones could end up at USC according to the source. Jones played in 11 games for Syracuse this season scoring a total of 21 points. He averaged less than two minutes per game. He was sidelined earlier in the season with a hip injury. Jones was the state player of the year as a high school senior.


I still doubt we get Gibson, but I'm surprised he publicly states we're equal with Bama even after the Saban hire.

As an aside...great pic, WB.

[Williams-Brice]

I'm surprised by what Gibson said tonight, too, especially since he has recently said that there is no way he wouldn't go to Bama.

[scfan5338]

I hope we get this Mike Jones kid seriously. We really wanted him 2 years ago but he went to Syracuse instead but he has a lot of potential and can help us out big time. I'm really looking forward to next year in Basketball with the two transfers and Sam Muldrow we have coming in.

[Darren]

Hopefully the commits in WB's picture are working hard on Dunlap and Culliver. The 2007 class will be top 5 in the end.

[Williams-Brice]

It won't be Top 5, but it will be Top 10. There are some schools behind us who only have half-full classes, and all of their current uncommitted targets are 4 or 5-star guys. They'll likely pass us. We'll certainly be Top 10.

[TrueGCFan]

Mike Jones plans on transfering to SC. Next year should be a very good year for SC in basketball.

[TaySC]

Mike Jones plans on transfering to SC. Next year should be a very good year for SC in basketball.

He couldn't play next year though.....

[Williams-Brice]

Mike Jones plans on transfering to SC. Next year should be a very good year for SC in basketball.

Has it been finalized that those are his plans? I know he is dead-set on transferring, but I only heard that USC is an option. I hope he does come here. We'll be pretty dang good in two years. It's crazy how all of these big time guys spurned us a few years ago, but now they want to come back. I wonder what they see in us now that they didn't see one, two, or three years ago.

[uscrules]

Ronaldo Balkman was a first round pick. They know that you can play for Carolina and make it to the NBA. I think it has given us a new recruiting tool for basketball. If a kid has the talent to play in the NBA they want to go somewhere that will promote them and see this dream a reality. Plus, the new Colonial Center is a big plus. Also, even Florida winning the National Championship last year and us beating them twice.

[Darren]

Is there any chance with Notre Dame getting spanked that Gary Grey would decommit and stay in Columbia? I think we would be full at db if Culliver is a silent commit.

[Williams-Brice]

Is there any chance with Notre Dame getting spanked that Gary Grey would decommit and stay in Columbia? I think we would be full at db if Culliver is a silent commit.

We are recruiting Culliver as a wide receiver, so his decision would not impact the defensive backs we choose to take. Also, there is no chance Gary Gray is coming to Carolina. He got his hair cut in the same style Quintin Richardson got his cut in, except the back of his head proudly sports a leprechaun.

[Darren]

Thanks WB. I hate that the all star game is on ESPNU tonight I have cable. Our class will be well represented. Could the performance of the players tonight up their stars with a good game? Also will any of the guys commit tonight live at the game.

[TrueGCFan]

Has it been finalized that those are his plans? I know he is dead-set on transferring, but I only heard that USC is an option. I hope he does come here. We'll be pretty dang good in two years. It's crazy how all of these big time guys spurned us a few years ago, but now they want to come back. I wonder what they see in us now that they didn't see one, two, or three years ago.
Mike Jones has stated that he will transfer to SC. I think he's waiting to hear about if he'll get accepted to the University.

[Williams-Brice]

Thanks WB. I hate that the all star game is on ESPNU tonight I have cable. Our class will be well represented.

Hey, no problem, man. It's my pleasure! I love keeping up with this stuff and doing the things I do. I, too, hate that it's on ESPNU. Do y'all have Time Warner up there? That's what we have here, and they don't carry ESPNU. It's all good thought because if I had the chance to watch this game, then I would be missing the only non-sports related show I watch, "The Office". Our class certainly will be well represented.

Could the performance of the players tonight up their stars with a good game? Also will any of the guys commit tonight live at the game.

I really wouldn't look for either one of those things to happen. Stephen Garcia, Travian Robertson, Joe Hills, Quintin Richardson, Carlos Dunlap, and Brian Maddox are all firmly set in their rankings, although there has been talk that Maddox may drop to 3-star status. Don't look for that to happen, as he has certainly held his own in the second half of this week, and he will get many of the carries tonight.

The two guys who, in my opinion, have the greatest chance to move up in the rankings are Cliff Matthews and Chris Culliver. Cliff Matthews has one thing holding him back from 5-star status: Mike Farrell, one of the big shots at Rivals.com, does not think Cliff has broad enough shoulders to put on the necessary weight in order to be a dominating defensive end. He's pretty much the only Negative Nancy when it comes to Cliff. You would more than likely see Cliff with a 5th star next to his name if Farrell didn't have this opinion. Most do not agree with him, and Cliff has shown this week that he will be a great defensive end down the line at South Carolina.

Chris Culliver has also shown big time potential at the wide receiver spot this week. He was clocked at a 4.27 at the Shrine Bowl, which I don't agree with because that just sounds too fast, but even with human error, the kid is a burner. The downside with him right now is that he's not a great route runner. He's on the raw side, and has made remarkable plays on God-given skills alone this week. He has the ability to move up in the overall rankings, but he won't get a 5th star.

In terms of commitments, I just don't see it happening. I can't imagine why Carlos Dunlap would publically commit before taking the other official visits he has stated he would take. The most likely of the two tonight, in my opinion, would be Culliver, but I have absolutely no grounds for making that prediction without saying it's just wishful thinking.

Then again, in regards to everything I just said above, anything is possible.

[Williams-Brice]

Mike Jones has stated that he will transfer to SC. I think he's waiting to hear about if he'll get accepted to the University.

That's great news. Thanks for the tidbit!

[pc72687]

I know this is stupid but I am not sure who some of these guys in your picture are there WB. I recognize some of them but not all of them. Can someone do a picture caption?

[Darren]

.Thanks again. We have Charter cable in the upstate. I will be watching the office to see whats up with Dwight. Just a little info about Clemson recruit Will Korn. Saws him play against Gaffney twice and he crumbles under pressure. Also the wr from Broome is not making the grades he needs to get in. Looks like things are looking up for the gamecocks.

[SPURED]

I know this is stupid but I am not sure who some of these guys in your picture are there WB. I recognize some of them but not all of them. Can someone do a picture caption?
Left to right: Carlos Dunlap, Travian Robertson, Quintin Richardson, Stephen Garcia, Chris Culliver and Joe Hills with Brian Maddox and Cliff Matthews on the ground

[TaySC]

I don't have the end of game stats, but I know at one point Culliver had 3 catches for 97 yards and 1 TD.

The TD and most of the yards came on a 76 yard pass that was 10 yards pass and 66 yards run.........

[SPURED]

I don't have the end of game stats, but I know at one point Culliver had 3 catches for 97 yards and 1 TD.

The TD and most of the yards came on a 76 yard pass that was 10 yards pass and 66 yards run.........
in wich he juked a few defenders to take it to the house. he won the offensive MVP award also our Dlinemen played exceptionally well. Mathews had three total tackles, two sacks and several quarterback pressures.Carlos Dunlap finished the game with four tackles, a sack and several quarterback pressures. Travian Robertson finished with three tackles and two sacks. Maddox had a good game catching the ball out of the backfield and had a few good runs. Garcia wasnt spectacular but he did have a Rushing TD. and Quinton Richardson had a great day on the Oline. i heard he was very Dominate the whole game. looks good for the future of our football program especially on the Dline!!!!

[JDStud6]

I know this is stupid but I am not sure who some of these guys in your picture are there WB. I recognize some of them but not all of them. Can someone do a picture caption?

"no question is a stupid question" ??

actually I was thinking of asking the same thing :)

JD

[TrueGCFan]

I'm starting to get the vibe that Garica could be one of the QB stat is a hero one game and cost us the next. I know a lot of people are comparing him to Farve. That can a good and bad thing. WB, Neo what are you hearing?

[roosterbooster]

He was good enough for Steve Spurrier to offer. That is good enough for me. Let's not judge what he will become until he at least, I don't know, takes a snap, throws a pass. He has potential and he is about to be coached by the best QB tutor there is. What we need to hope for is that he has poise and composure. Blake Mitchell has more talent than Steve Tanneyhill or Phil Petty. What he lacks in consistency is due to the fact that those 2 QB's had composure and no matter how much pressure there was to perform they could dig down and find something. I saw something a bit disturbing in the first half of the Liberty Bowl. If you look at the Blake Mitchell of the UGA game and the Blake Mitchell of the Arkansas 2nd half the main difference is in his footwork. He was precise in his mechanics and became precise in his throws. Watch his feet on the int to end the arky game and in the first half of the CU game. Then watch his feet on the first 2 passes to Sidney in the Liberty. He under threw them because he kicked his back foot out to the right and landed on it causing the ball to float and come up short. Poise and Composure are what we need at QB. That is what we need to hope Spurrier can find inside of Tommy Beecher, Chris Smelley or Stephen Garcia. Don't right Mr. Beecher off just yet. The fact that he is still around proves he might just have that intangible quality you can't coach, you can't learn, you just have to be born with.

[Williams-Brice]

I'm starting to get the vibe that Garica could be one of the QB stat is a hero one game and cost us the next. I know a lot of people are comparing him to Farve. That can a good and bad thing. WB, Neo what are you hearing?

Garcia has everything you want in a quarterback. He's smart, confident, and athletic, and he also has a very powerful arm and great size. He will have the strongest arm on our team next year. The thing that will hold him back this year (earning him a redshirt) will be his technique. He received less than stellar coaching in terms of quarterback fundamentals in high school. He's going to be up and down not just in these all-star games, but also in his first few years here. He's going to need to do a lot of things with his mechanics because most of his success has been due to his amazing raw talent. It's really not fair to judge him on performances right now. It's fair to judge him on his upside, which is remarkable. Spurrier will fix his mechanics the same way he fixed Blake's.

[TaySC]

personally, I think Blake will play lights out for us next year.....

He grew so much this season and will only continue to grow through the winter and then spring practices.

[Williams-Brice]

I 100% agree. The end of his season last year was completely different from the way he ended it this year.

[bigbadbird]

I 100% agree. The end of his season last year was completely different from the way he ended it this year.

And aren't we all extremely happy about that?!!

[roosterbooster]

Actually I don't think last season really ended that much differently for Blake and that is why I expected a lot more from him this year. He just seems so slip into bad habits at the wrong time. Sidney did a better job playing DB in the bowl game this year or they may have taken one (or two) back to the house which could have changed the outcome a bit. Don't get me wrong, I would love nothing better than to see Blake Mitchell's name on the first team all SEC list at the end of next season and I think he has the talent to do that.

[USAFGAMECOCK]

I also think Blake will be the man next season. His first season under SOS, he was learning new stuff....mechanics, Spurriers offense, AND was expected to be the leader. Kind of a lot to throw at somebody off the start(but it still happens) This past season, it seems like he was coming around with the physical and mental aspects of the game. But I think the most important thing he learned was that when you a QB under SOS, you have a very good chance of riding the pine at some point regardless of how good you are. When that happened, he didn't handle very well at all....just ask the bouncer. So...my hope/prediction for next season is that Blake will take all of this in, works hard in the offseason, and puts it all together when the season kicks off. I think he'll mature a good bit between now and then.

[Darren]

When the offensive line came together and gave Blake some time thats what made the difference. Early in the season the o-line was still getting experience. Blake should do well next year.

[USAFGAMECOCK]

When the offensive line came together and gave Blake some time thats what made the difference. Early in the season the o-line was still getting experience. Blake should do well next year.

Good point....the O line can make or break(literally :happy: ) a QB.

[Darren]

Spurrier does not need an all star to play QB in his system. A good o-line and his play calling is all he needs. Lookm back at his Florida QB's and you will see that they were not highly rated but he did have protection for them.

[gamecockdroc]

Ajiboye Says Geathers Joining Him At USC
By Phil Kornblut
USC commitment DL Ladi Ajiboye (6-2 295) of Atlanta and Hargrave Prep, VA will enroll at USC for the start of the spring semester January 15th. He will take his official visit on the 13th and stay in Columbia for the start of classes. His teammate at Hargrave, Carvers Bay product OL/DE Cliff Geathers (6-7 275), also is expected to enroll at USC as well though Geathers is not expected to make any public announcement. "I talked to him like a week ago and he's telling me he's going there," Ajiboye said. Other schools have tried to get in touch with Ajiboye since his USC commitment, but was having none of that. "I just stopped answering the phone," he said.
Loved to see his quote, that's awesome how these kids are just as excited about the gamecocks as we are.

[IrmoCock]

Garcia has everything you want in a quarterback. He's smart, confident, and athletic, and he also has a very powerful arm and great size. He will have the strongest arm on our team next year. The thing that will hold him back this year (earning him a redshirt) will be his technique. Spurrier will fix his mechanics the same way he fixed Blake's.

I've heard people with this same complaint about SG. I was going to point out that one of the first thing SOS did when he got to campus was fix Blake's awful mechanics, but you beat me to it. Here's some rep points for you.

Just be patient, guys. The Ball Coach will coach this kid up and make him a star.

[TaySC]

January 05, 2007
USC Remains Leader For Auguste
By Phil Kornblut


DB Akeem Auguste (5-10 175) of Hollywood, FL has been favoring USC since his official visit in December and he said Friday the Gamecocks are still his favorite. He talked Thursday with USC recruiter Robert Gillespie and had the chance to make his commitment. "I just don't want to commit right now I guess," he said. Auguste said West Virginia and Wake Forest remain in play with him. One of his teammates committed to West Virginia and that's a factor in their favor. Auguste is scheduled to visit Florida State January 20th but he's not sure if he'll take it. He hopes to have a decision by January 20th.

[TaySC]

January 05, 2007
Culliver, Matthews Earn Honors
By Phil Kornblut
USC target WR Chris Culliver of Garner, NC (6-1 190) and Gamecock commitment DE Cliff Matthews of Cheraw were named the offensive and defensive MVPs respectively for the east team in last night's all star game in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Culliver caught a 75 yard touchdown pass. Culliver reaffirmed Friday what he had said here a coupe of weeks ago..."South Carolina is still out front. It's down to Florida and South Carolina and it's going to come down to my official visit. I'll probably decide after my Florida visit." Culliver will visit Florida on the 13th and USC on the 20th. He said he's still having contact from Clemson but is not hearing from any other schools. He said he's told Clemson he is going with either the Gamecocks or Gators.

Sounds good......

[gamecockdroc]

January 05, 2007
USC Remains Leader For Auguste
By Phil Kornblut


DB Akeem Auguste (5-10 175) of Hollywood, FL has been favoring USC since his official visit in December and he said Friday the Gamecocks are still his favorite. He talked Thursday with USC recruiter Robert Gillespie and had the chance to make his commitment. "I just don't want to commit right now I guess," he said. Auguste said West Virginia and Wake Forest remain in play with him. One of his teammates committed to West Virginia and that's a factor in their favor. Auguste is scheduled to visit Florida State January 20th but he's not sure if he'll take it. He hopes to have a decision by January 20th.Not really sure what to think after that statement, is wvu that big of a player? I'm usually positive but that doesn't sound like a kid that wants to play here.

[Williams-Brice]

West Virginia is definitely a player with him. I don't know what's holding him up. I still expect him to be a Gamecock unless we fill up and he misses out.

[gamecockdroc]

West Virginia is definitely a player with him. I don't know what's holding him up. I still expect him to be a Gamecock unless we fill up and he misses out.He just doesn't sound like he really wants to play at SC in my opinion. I hope I'm wrong though.

[pc72687]

Well, it seems impossible to me for any dissenter to hold Matthews from getting his coveted 5-star rating after being named Defensive MVP of both the Shrine bowl and Rivals bowl. Maybe he won't get bigger, doubtful but maybe, but if you can dominate you can dominate, that's just plain and simple and he has proved it over and over again. I don't know what else he can do to prove himself.

[Williams-Brice]

I agree, pc, and most people in the business agree with you, too.

[gamecockdroc]

Any visitors in this weekend for officials?

[uscrules]

Well, it seems impossible to me for any dissenter to hold Matthews from getting his coveted 5-star rating after being named Defensive MVP of both the Shrine bowl and Rivals bowl. Maybe he won't get bigger, doubtful but maybe, but if you can dominate you can dominate, that's just plain and simple and he has proved it over and over again. I don't know what else he can do to prove himself.
If there was a better defensive player on the field the other night, I didn't see him. I think a lot of it is he plays at a 2-a high school where the competion is not always a good a 4-a.

[NineInchCock]

West Virginia is definitely a player with him. I don't know what's holding him up. I still expect him to be a Gamecock unless we fill up and he misses out.

The only thing holding him up is him waiting on an FSU offer. He's a lifelong Nole fan, and would commit on the spot to them if an offer came. However, FSU has already gotten their two CBs for this class, and they don't have that many scholarships left, so an offer is not likely to come. If Auguste doesn't wait too long for the FSU offer, he's ours.

[pc72687]

The FSU situation is so up in the air I don't know why anyone would want to go there anymore. I think the new ACC has killed them.

[Williams-Brice]

Any visitors in this weekend for officials?

There aren't any visitors this weekend.

[Williams-Brice]

If there was a better defensive player on the field the other night, I didn't see him. I think a lot of it is he plays at a 2-a high school where the competion is not always a good a 4-a.

It really doesn't have anything to do with where he played. Some people just believe that his frame is too narrow. That's all. I don't know how many more combines or all star games he'll have to be named MVP in to change the minds of these people.

[Williams-Brice]

The only thing holding him up is him waiting on an FSU offer. He's a lifelong Nole fan, and would commit on the spot to them if an offer came. However, FSU has already gotten their two CBs for this class, and they don't have that many scholarships left, so an offer is not likely to come. If Auguste doesn't wait too long for the FSU offer, he's ours.

He is scheduled to visit F$U on January 20th, but he has been quoted recently as saying that he is unsure about that visit now. F$U will not offer Auguste, and I think he knows that.

[Williams-Brice]

I know this doesn't belong in the recruiting section, but I wanted to pass along the latest I've heard on Sidney Rice. I've heard as recently as this morning that Sidney goes back and forth all the time about his decision to stay or leave. Currently, it sounds as though he is leaning towards leaving. Some people on the Gaffney High School staff have said that he has taken all of his stuff home from Columbia, and someone else apparently claims to have spoken with his mother in Memphis at Rendezvous BBQ, and she said at the table that night that Sidney was going. I don't know how much stock I would put into that, as I sat at the same table that night, and I didn't hear anything about him definitely leaving. However, I can tell you that the vibe I was getting from them that night was that he is still up in the air about it. There is definitely cause for some concern.

[pc72687]

I'd hate for Syndey to leave but I guess he is doing what he feels is best for himself and his family.

[Demandbetter]

Is Dunlap playing in the Army All-Star game on NBC today?

[WallyGoat]

Is Dunlap playing in the Army All-Star game on NBC today?

According to TaySC, he didn't see any SC recruits at the game. I didn't either. He could have been though.

[NineInchCock]

He is scheduled to visit F$U on January 20th, but he has been quoted recently as saying that he is unsure about that visit now. F$U will not offer Auguste, and I think he knows that.

True, and as time goes on, it's pretty apparent that he isn't going to get that offer. I'm fairly confident that the reason he is holding off so long is he wants to make absolutely sure that offer isn't coming from FSU. Personally, I think we should look for him to commit some time next week (finally!).

I know this doesn't belong in the recruiting section, but I wanted to pass along the latest I've heard on Sidney Rice. I've heard as recently as this morning that Sidney goes back and forth all the time about his decision to stay or leave. Currently, it sounds as though he is leaning towards leaving. Some people on the Gaffney High School staff have said that he has taken all of his stuff home from Columbia, and someone else apparently claims to have spoken with his mother in Memphis at Rendezvous BBQ, and she said at the table that night that Sidney was going. I don't know how much stock I would put into that, as I sat at the same table that night, and I didn't hear anything about him definitely leaving. However, I can tell you that the vibe I was getting from them that night was that he is still up in the air about it. There is definitely cause for some concern.

That's the kind of stuff that I've been hearing as well unfortunately. It isn't an absolute lost cause since he hasn't officially hired an agent yet, but it is looking pretty grim. Needless to say, losing him could cause us to lose a few games next year, no doubt. If he could just stay one more year to rewrite the school book record!!! :azz:

[Williams-Brice]

Is Dunlap playing in the Army All-Star game on NBC today?

Dunlap played in the Rivals.com game on Thursday. There's no way he could have played today. We don't have anyone in the Army game.

[FLgamecockJAX]

I just wish Sidney wouldn't have told SOS (back when) that he was coming back next year and it was ok to tell the media. If he leaves, I could understand his reasoning, but he made it so final towards the end of the season. I do believe his draft status would improve after another year under SOS, but who am I.

[pc72687]

I think his stock would be higher after another year, but we said the same thing about JJ and Williamson and look where they went!!!

[WayzUp]

I think his stock would be higher after another year, but we said the same thing about JJ and Williamson and look where they went!!!
JJ & Troy's stock both skyrocketed cuz they ran ridiculous times at the combine. Rice is rather pedestrian compared to those two so his stock will likely be right around where it is currently.

[WayzUp]

Georgia DB Set With USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

DB Dequan Bembery (5-10 175) of Hawkinsville, GA said Thursday his official visit to USC January 13th is still on. "I talked with coach Wommack this past weekend," Bembery said. "He said it's a good place for me where I can get to play and the academics are great." USC has not offered Bembery but he's hoping to get an offer during his visit. "Coach Spurrier wants to see my size," he said. Bembery also will visit Kentucky January 20th and Marshall February 3rd. Those two have offered along with Troy, Middle Tennessee, Georgia Southern and Southern Miss. Bembery said Kentucky has been showing him the strongest recruiting interest. This season he had 60 tackles and 3 interceptions. Bembery can play corner or strong safety and is considered an excellent return man in the kicking game.
http://www.goupstate.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070104/PSPORTS02/70104006/-1/PSPORTS

This guy's film is as impressive, if not moreso, than Auguste's. Anyone happen to know why his only offers are Ga.Southern, So.Miss & UK? For a 3-star CB who can return kicks and tackles extremely well (and hard!), you'd think he'd have more offers from bigger programs than those.... :confused:

[autiger1126]

he originally committed to auburn but his offer was removed after our coaches saw his size. I think his size is the big negative about him, but he is very athletic.

[quiverlip]

Sidney's gone. Hope that seals the deal with Culliver. Looks like McKinnley is gonna have to be the man next year.

[pc72687]

We have so many receivers that losing one isn't the end of the world, but had we kept Rice we would have had something very special indeed.

[TaySC]

Sidney's gone. Hope that seals the deal with Culliver. Looks like McKinnley is gonna have to be the man next year.

for the most part he was the man this year...

[gmcck4life]

Where did you get the info that Rice is gone. Last i heard the nfl told him he would be late first round to a 2nd round pick. Some so called draft experts have even said with who all is coming out that he could fall to a high 3rd round pick. He would be an idiot to leave under those circumstances.

[gmcck4life]

Never mind. I saw it on TheState web site. He has already moved out of the dorm and moved to Arizona.

[gamecockdroc]

Big week in recruiting coming up, Allen and Lecorn to announce on Thursday, hopefully more will announce this week also, can't wait.

Anyone have a list of the vistors coming in on the 13th?

[quiverlip]

Somebody find out the Gary Gray tidbit on Scout.

[pc72687]

Steve was selling to the incoming recievers that they would get to play for Rice's open position so I think he was expecting this to happen. He may have been hoping otherwise but was planning for the worst.

[uscrules]

Culliver looked like a burner in the all-star game. I sure hope he comes here. He could be a game breaker.

[Williams-Brice]

He would be an idiot to leave under those circumstances.

It's not fair to Sidney to call him an idiot. His goal all along was to stay here next year, but then he found out how bad off his mom and family are physically and financially when he went home after the bowl game. He's making a good choice.

[GTmorris1970]

Steve was selling to the incoming recievers that they would get to play for Rice's open position so I think he was expecting this to happen. He may have been hoping otherwise but was planning for the worst.

Spurrier is no fool. He has recruited two 6'4 receivers this year, and Cook is 6'5 and will probably move back to receiver. Newton has said in the past Cook is the best receiver on the team, and would set records here. Yes, that was this past year while Rice was on the team.

As far as Rice. I read his interview last evening, and feel much better about his situation. I took it he does not really want to leave, but wants to ensure he can take care of his family and not risk being injured. He said he will be a Gamecock forever, and has spoken to some of his teammates to tell them he will be watching. It was kind of sad to tell you the truth. I still think he is making a mistake, but I still love him for what he did here, and wish him the best.

[scfan5338]

It's not fair to Sidney to call him an idiot. His goal all along was to stay here next year, but then he found out how bad off his mom and family are physically and financially when he went home after the bowl game. He's making a good choice.
Exactly. We as outsiders wouldnt understand what that money can mean sometimes to their families who have worked their butts off and are still strugglnig financally. He made a move necessary for his family financially, I support him all the way, hopefully he turns out better than the pervious Gamecock WR drafted in the 1st round.

[roosterbooster]

Sidney, I wish you were staying but one day I hope I can watch the Hall of Fame induction ceremony with a tear in my eye and say "Remember when...". All Gamecocks should wish Sidney Rice the best of luck. Go Cocks and yes that means Sidney Rice. Forever a Gamecock.

[Darren]

I wish Mr. Rice The best. We should have someone to take his place and be a star. We will miss him but I think this will help the QB's look at all recievers and not to just throw it up to Rice when other guys are open. That was the case a couple of times this year when Blake would throw early to him with guys open.

[Darren]

PKorn says that Culliver will commit to the gamecocks on Mon. or Tues. next week.
We need the speed.

[Williams-Brice]

PKorn says that Culliver will commit to the gamecocks on Mon. or Tues. next week.
We need the speed.

Yep. It looks like we are going to be just fine. By the way, Culliver might be a 5-star guy when all is said and done. I'm getting that vibe from some people, even though I predicted it wouldn't happen.

[TaySC]

Yep. It looks like we are going to be just fine. By the way, Culliver might be a 5-star guy when all is said and done. I'm getting that vibe from some people, even though I predicted it wouldn't happen.

W-B, where ya been hiding? Your PM box is overflowing...... :laugh:

[TaySC]

Big week in recruiting coming up, Allen and Lecorn to announce on Thursday, hopefully more will announce this week also, can't wait.

Anyone have a list of the vistors coming in on the 13th?

The only 2 remaining official visits on the schedule are for the following w/e:

4 star LB Josh Bynes

3 star DE Jabaal Sheard

[Darren]

WB, how many commits are we going to have to place due to grades?

[pc72687]

I wish Mr. Rice The best. We should have someone to take his place and be a star. We will miss him but I think this will help the QB's look at all recievers and not to just throw it up to Rice when other guys are open. That was the case a couple of times this year when Blake would throw early to him with guys open.


Darren you took the words right out of my mouth. Our receiving corp will benefit as a whole now because Mitchell will have to throw it around more, not just where's Sydney!

[Williams-Brice]

W-B, where ya been hiding? Your PM box is overflowing...... :laugh:

Really? My bad. I'll "fix the glitch" right now.

[Williams-Brice]

The only 2 remaining official visits on the schedule are for the following w/e:

4 star LB Josh Bynes

3 star DE Jabaal Sheard

I don't know that Sheard will actually come in. Bynes will visit on January 19th. I'm hearing a buzz that Alfred McCullough MAY be visiting this weekend. Officially, I haven't heard anything here. I am not working this weekend, just to go ahead and answer that question because I'm sure it'll come up. I am scheduled for some dates down the line.

[Williams-Brice]

WB, how many commits are we going to have to place due to grades?

We will bring in 27 guys, and the coaches will choose which signee will do what. They'll choose 27 to come in. Others will not qualify, and those will be placed. Others still will be grayshirted. There are definitely some guys who need to remain focused this (their final) semester. Melvin Ingram, Carlos Dunlap, Mark Barnes, Dion Lecorn, Arkee Smith, and a few others need to do well this semester. Rest assured that our coaches know, and that is contributing to the high number of signings this year.

[Darren]

A friend of mine just told me that Scotty Cooper is listed as a soft verbal on cutigers.com. Could he have taken an unofficial to the gamecocks that we don't know about? Any chance of us getting him without an official visit? This would be icing on the cake.

[TaySC]

screw Cooper.

[Williams-Brice]

A friend of mine just told me that Scotty Cooper is listed as a soft verbal on cutigers.com. Could he have taken an unofficial to the gamecocks that we don't know about? Any chance of us getting him without an official visit? This would be icing on the cake.

He has not officially visited, but I'm not betting against him visiting. Our staff is still in contact with him. I honestly think he'll be a secret visitor at some point down the line. Quintin Richardson still thinks there is a chance that we'll land him in the long run. It's not over with him, regardless of what you are hearing from Clempson folks.

[Williams-Brice]

screw Cooper.

What will you say if he ends up coming here? I promise it's not over with him.

[TaySC]

What will you say if he ends up coming here? I promise it's not over with him.

If he becomes a Gamecock, then my opinion will change merely because of my love for our team, but at this point I look at him about like I do Gary Grey.

Grey ended up being a traitor that talked the talk and was unable to walk the walk......

Thus far, Cooper has run his head saying how badly he hates USC, how PK misquoted or LIED about him, etc.....

IF Cooper is playing a game and running around lying to everyone, then he doesn't warrant respect in my book.

Alas, IF he were to become a Gamecock, my love for USC would override my dislike for liars, gameplayers, etc....

[The Spur]

Good post Williams Brice. We can't judge Sidney. Let's all be honest, if we had the chance to make the kind of money he'll be making, we'd do what he's doing right now, especially if the family needed it. I wish Sidney the best of luck and hope he goes down as one of the best in NFL history.

[larryt4111]

I think Sidney has made the right choice, if $$$.$$ for the family is the need.
I also would liked to have seen him in the Garnet & Black next season.
He'll do well and so will the Cocks.

[scfan5338]

Darren you took the words right out of my mouth. Our receiving corp will benefit as a whole now because Mitchell will have to throw it around more, not just where's Sydney!

I agree with that to a degree. Took Mitchell some time to get use to his receivers like McKinely. He has hitting Rice every time and then slowly started seeing McKinely and he emerged. I'm worried about the progress with the other receivers. It seems like it takes him a long time to learn and adjust to the other receivers.

[Williams-Brice]

If he becomes a Gamecock, then my opinion will change merely because of my love for our team, but at this point I look at him about like I do Gary Grey.

Grey ended up being a traitor that talked the talk and was unable to walk the walk......

Thus far, Cooper has run his head saying how badly he hates USC, how PK misquoted or LIED about him, etc.....

IF Cooper is playing a game and running around lying to everyone, then he doesn't warrant respect in my book.

Alas, IF he were to become a Gamecock, my love for USC would override my dislike for liars, gameplayers, etc....

Guys, everyone, seriously . . . it's Gary GRAY, not Grey. Also, Cooper's situation is nowhere close to Gray's. We never even officially led for Cooper. Scotty is telling different people different things right now. If he visits here, then we have a chance. It's not over with him.

[pc72687]

People complaining over Cooper seems odd to me since we currently have a player commited to us that was commited to us/ decommited and switched teams and now a year later has come full circle. The recruiting game is a wild one and anything can happen.

[WayzUp]

Right on, pc. GrAy is a perfect example.....to this day I think we could have had a shot to make him an 11th hour switch-back, especially with how ND's season turned out defesively, but we as a fanbase lambasted the kid and the bridge was burnt, doused in gas and burnt again and again and again. We made that 4-star (a 5* if he'd have played CB this year) corner's mind up for him and for what? Because he committed to us publicly and de-committed?

I do think that lesson's been learned by a lot of Gamecock nation (or at least I hope it has!) and from GG on, we'll benefit more than we get hurt by the change-of-hearts in recruiting.

If Cooper wants to reconsider, I for one would be absolutely ECSTATIC! WE NEED LB'S!!

[Darren]

I will take anyone that we are recruiting as long as they come in and give 100%. Any new recruiting news for us?

[TrueGCFan]

It looks like Lecorn and Allen have rescheduled their annoucement again. WB or Neo what's the deal?

[Darren]

Sounds fishy to me. Are they looking elsewhere?

[NineInchCock]

Just a rumor, but from what I'm hearing Lecorn is still holding out for a UF offer, especially after last night. Regardless, the first time was understandable, but twice? Something is going on...

[Williams-Brice]

It looks like Lecorn and Allen have rescheduled their annoucement again. WB or Neo what's the deal?

They moved it to next Thursday because Allen has a basketball game this Thursday that they thought they could work around. Seriously, I know this is frustrating, but these guys have already committed to our coaches, and that's all that matters.

[NineInchCock]

They moved it to next Thursday because Allen has a basketball game this Thursday that they thought they could work around. Seriously, I know this is frustrating, but these guys have already committed to our coaches, and that's all that matters.

Thanks for the clarification. As long as they sign with us Feb. 8, I can hold out as long as they need to! :thumpsup:

[pc72687]

Was a date ever announced for Culliver and Dunlap?

[gamecockdroc]

Does anyone know if Geathers is on campus? Do classes start this week or next?

[gamecockdroc]

Was a date ever announced for Culliver and Dunlap?Cullivers is on Monday after he visits Florida this weekend, I believe

[scfan5338]

Does anyone know if Geathers is on campus? Do classes start this week or next?

next week. on the 16th i believe.

[Williams-Brice]

You can expect an announcement next Tuesday from Chris Culliver. He went on the record today as saying that last night has no influence on his decision. Also, the visit to Florida this weekend is supposedly more for his dad, who is a huge Florida fan. Dunlap is not on the same schedule as Culliver, but it won't go all the way to NSD.

The dorms opened at noon today, but orientation for the new football players who are coming in this semester isn't until the 12th. We could have an answer from the Clearinghouse that day, too. Classes do not start until next Tuesday. You can certainly chalk this up as a victory for Carolina. Geathers will be here, and he'll probably be here tomorrow.

[WayzUp]

Is Wes Saunders still set to visit this weekend? I've thought and still think he's UNC-bound but with Andy Boyd, Robert Pavlovic & Laggis departing after next season, we'll either be forced to keep Jared Cook out-of-position at TE, use former walk-ons Foxy Foxworth & Alex McGrath as our starter or not play a TE at all & I don't like the idea of that at all. Mat Williams was a good get and I hear we're planning on converting Byron McKnight into a TE but Saunders seems to me to be the ideal size for it.

Thoughts? Tidbits? Rumors? Anything?

[Williams-Brice]

He'll either visit this weekend or next. Our "big" weekend remaining is the January 19th weekend, so I think it might be that weekend when Saunders comes. I just can't remember. I expect us to land him.

[TrueGCFan]

I know we've gone over this before, but to get clearifcation, which players are coming in early? Garica said he was planning on it and I know we've had 3 players already sign their letter. With those 4 and Geathers is that it?

[NineInchCock]

I believe Travian Robertson is coming in early as well.

[Williams-Brice]

I know we've gone over this before, but to get clearifcation, which players are coming in early? Garica said he was planning on it and I know we've had 3 players already sign their letter. With those 4 and Geathers is that it?

Same Pope won't enroll early, and I don't think Jonathan Williams will, either.

Stephen Garcia
Travian Robertson
Clifton Geathers
Olufemi Ajiboye
Addison Williams
Ryan Broadhead
Larry Freeman

[Williams-Brice]

Clifton Geathers is enrolled. I did a little research. ;)

[pc72687]

What is interesting is all of the early enrollees are probably going to be having some significant playing time next year. Excepting maybe Garcia since Mitchell is playing some great football lately.

[Williams-Brice]

Ocala Duo Looking At Friday Or Monday
By Phil Kornblut
The once dela