USC Recruiting News

[FLgamecockJAX]

Well, SR's Sunday interview makes more sense now. I guess he knew what was going to happen.

[Kevhugh]

Oh well...don't anyone jump off a bridge or anything. There's no need to trash the kid. (Keep in mind that's what he is...a kid) He did what he thought he had to do. No one knows how all of this will pan out. He may never play a down for Florida either. Such is the nature of recruiting. I wish the kid all the best 11 games out of the year. The only question that remains is does this mean Culliver will follow him? Any thoughts?

[scfan5338]

This is like so similar to what happens when we play. We get so close to winning the big one and we lose by a slight margin. This happened couple of times last year and again this year.

[Williams-Brice]

This is like so similar to what happens when we play. We get so close to winning the big one and we lose by a slight margin. This happened couple of times last year and again this year.

Dude, our class is still going to finish in the Top 6 more than likely. This staff has still done a remarkable job.

[Williams-Brice]

Dunlap is a bum if he did in fact commit to USC two weeks ago. I think Cliff Mathews is a better DE than Dunlap anyway. I am sure his father is heart broken.:brick:

Yeah, I can't really agree with any of that.

[scfan5338]

Dude, our class is still going to finish in the Top 6 more than likely. This staff has still done a remarkable job.

I know. We have a great class this year and probably the best in our history but all I'm saying is we just seem to lose out on the "big" one.

[Darren]

Culliver I think will follow him. Will Dunlap even qualify?

[GTmorris1970]

Although it's a tough loss, I agree 100% with WB. This staff has done one helluva job, and I still believe Culliver will be a Gamecock.

[Kevhugh]

Let's also look at it this way. Will it effect our eventual recruiting ranking? Perhaps. But does it really matter? Guess how many trophies they hand out for recruiting a top ten class. That's right...zero. We'll be fine.

[Darren]

I think we are done with the top guys unless we have a sleeper.

[scfan5338]

Dunlap is a bum if he did in fact commit to USC two weeks ago. I think Cliff Mathews is a better DE than Dunlap anyway. I am sure his father is heart broken.:brick:

Dude seriously you know you wouldnt be saying that Matthews is a better DE has Dunlap commited to us. Matthews is still a beast but Dunlap was something else. How many 6-6 245 pounds guys do you know that can run a 95 yard kickoff year for a TD? He is a freak of nature.

[usccop]

thanks for pumping me up pal, any more guarantees? I bought a lotto ticket, think I will pull it out? just kidding, but seriously, I always cringe when someone says one of these kids is "a lock." I always try to avoid a subject where anyone, no matter who, says a kid is "100% Gamecock", but I know you guys will still do it. oh well

[Gibber]

Don't worry guys. The sun will still rise tommorrow!

Go Cocks

[GTmorris1970]

:rolleyes: Carolina fans kill me. We lose ONE PLAYER, and suddenly the rest of this class is trash.

[OmahaBound]

Dude, our class is still going to finish in the Top 6 more than likely. This staff has still done a remarkable job.

Exactly...we were #7 in recruiting yesterday and we'll be #7 in recruiting tomorrow. This obviously sucks, but this is still an awesome class no matter what happens with the ~3 guys we're still waiting on.

[NineInchCock]

Dunlap's reasoning for choosing the Gators:

"At South Carolina I hung out with the players and coaches and I got to meet their wives, but at Florida I got to hang out with the players, the coaches, and I got to hang out with their families."

WTF?!

[usccop]

aw, how sweet

[Darren]

We are now #8 on rivals. Georgia jumped us.

[scfan5338]

Exactly...we were #7 in recruiting yesterday and we'll be #7 in recruiting tomorrow. This obviously sucks, but this is still an awesome class no matter what happens with the ~3 guys we're still waiting on.

#8 actually, but I think we still have a great class and we addressed our needs. we have 2 more big name guys left on the board.

[larryt4111]

:rolleyes: Carolina fans kill me. We lose ONE PLAYER, and suddenly the rest of this class is trash.
Well said GT!

[Kevhugh]

All along I've felt Dunlap will turn out to be the type of player that doesn't qualify...heads off to JUCO and we go through all of this hoopla again. A lot can happen in a year or so. I'm not having an irrational Gamecock reaction, or as I like to call it, a "Gary Gray" moment. I'm just saying who knows how this will pan out. On top of that, let's remember that Demitrius Summers was ranked high too and we all know how that turned out.

[OmahaBound]

#8 actually, but I think we still have a great class and we addressed our needs. we have 2 more big name guys left on the board.

still #7 on scout....SO THERE! ;)

you know what i was getting at though, and i appreciate the update on rivals changes.

[Carolina Cowboy]

Dude seriously you know you wouldnt be saying that Matthews is a better DE has Dunlap commited to us. Matthews is still a beast but Dunlap was something else. How many 6-6 245 pounds guys do you know that can run a 95 yard kickoff year for a TD? He is a freak of nature. I think Mathews is a much more polished DE right now. Dunlap does have alot of potential. However, he is only 17 and next year if he red shirts ,in 09 I can see him being one of the best DE end the country.
Mathews reminds me of a young john abraham. Yes I am pissed we did not get dunlap.

[gamecockvic]

WB & GTmorris

I would like to know what happened if you find out. This surprises me more than any other one this year. What about not having a good visit? Texting our commits while at FLA? Telling our coaches he was coming? I know you can change your mind, but don't you let those you have silently committed to know you have changed your mind? I don't buy that "I hung out with their families" as the reason.

Oh well, I wish him well at FLA EXCEPT when we play them. IF he changed his mind over the last few days I guess he could do it again.

[usccop]

yeah, summers was only an outstanding tailback, that's all. What are you saying? Dunlap will be good for a while and then get busted for smoking that cheeba. I guess, but, well, we'll see.

[Williams-Brice]

Culliver I think will follow him. Will Dunlap even qualify?

I just don't see Culliver doing that.

[scfan5338]

Lets not forget that Florida did just win a national title and that might have had something to do with it. Everyone knew Meyer was praising the national title thing and that's probably the only thing Dunlap remembers when he made his decision.

[usccop]

I don't wish floridum well, I hope they lose every game from now until eternity. TWICE, that's not sour grapes about today, I've always felt that way. I think all orange sucks.

[gamecockvic]

I should add that this is still a GREAT class! We have an excellent D-line group as well as receivers. One more LB and a TE would more than meet all of our needs and provide depth at every position. And we got Garcia!!!!

Go Cocks!!!!!

[Kevhugh]

yeah, summers was only an outstanding tailback, that's all. What are you saying? Dunlap will be good for a while and then get busted for smoking that cheeba. I guess, but, well, we'll see.

I wouldn't call him anything more than disappointing...he never really impressed me even before he got busted...I personally would have preferred Reggie Merriweather over Summers from that year's class.

[Williams-Brice]

thanks for pumping me up pal, any more guarantees? I bought a lotto ticket, think I will pull it out? just kidding, but seriously, I always cringe when someone says one of these kids is "a lock." I always try to avoid a subject where anyone, no matter who, says a kid is "100% Gamecock", but I know you guys will still do it. oh well

I only give the information I am given. I don't just throw out guarantees. Everyone who is usually dead-on was wrong about this one.

[Kevhugh]

I have to give WB credit...he was extra quick with changing his sig pic....lol

[lacene]

well, I just got in and saw the bad news....Dunlap would certainly have been a great addition to this year's recruiting class, and he will now be a defensive force for Spurrier to deal with in future seasons, but Dunlap didn't make or break this recruiting class we have coming in. He was going to be a heaping helping of icing on the cake, but we still got the cake, IMO.

One of the - if not THE - best classes ever for SC, and you know what, this one class is not going to define the future of SC's football program, but rather the next 2 or 3 classes, with this one included, will impact our program and build a foundation for great SEC success ahead.

As was posted above, I hope Dunlap the best for his career at Florida for all games except against SC. Let's start working on showing him what he'll be missing the next 4 years. Go Gamecocks!!

[scfan5338]

I have to give WB credit...he was extra quick with changing his sig pic....lol

haha yeah as soon as he probably found out thts the first thing he did. it was quick!

[usccop]

well, he must be awful since he "never really impressed" you. Apparently, your opinion is considered the end-all be-all with you, and that's fine, I guess. I do agree that it ended in disappointment, but when he was here, and playing, he was good. So there's my opinion and I'm okay with agreeing to disagree with you if you can handle that. If so, we'll drop it. W-B, I don't hate you or discount anything you say in the future. All I'm saying is I really hate to hear people like you and me say words like, "lock", "count on him", and "guarantee." I'm not saying you (or JBK) are idiots, in fact this is one of the first times I can remember you guys missing. I'm just saying it really makes me cringe. Thanks for the discussion and I look forward to reading future info from you, and others.

[Kevhugh]

well, he must be awful since he "never really impressed" you. Apparently, your opinion is considered the end-all be-all with you, and that's fine, I guess. I do agree that it ended in disappointment, but when he was here, and playing, he was good. So there's my opinion and I'm okay with agreeing to disagree with you if you can handle that. If so, we'll drop it.

Hey no hard feelings here. I have no problem with you thinking Summers played well. I was just giving my opinion. I'm not arguing...I can easily agree to disagree. That's why I phrased it all the way I did. It was only my opinion.

[gamecockvic]

I only give the information I am given. I don't just throw out guarantees. Everyone who is usually dead-on was wrong about this one.

WB

We appreciate the info you give. It hurts now, but we all know that the info is the best you have at that moment. You do a good job letting us know what kind of info it is, whether rumor, from a recruit, from the coaches, etc. Obviously, something changed somewhere or this kid wanted to shock everyone. It happens.

Take care.

[GatorHunter]

Culliver I think will follow him. Will Dunlap even qualify?

I don't know about Culliver...I think he was offered the chance to play WR if he committed that weekend. The Gators don't need WRs...or DB for that matter. Culliver is more than likely a Cock...at least, that's what I've been told...by the same people that told me Dunlap was a Gator yesterday.

Dunlap has qualified...at least, according to the information UF received from his HS...that's the reason he finally received his offer Saturday.

[NineInchCock]

I only give the information I am given. I don't just throw out guarantees. Everyone who is usually dead-on was wrong about this one.

I can back WB up 100% on this. Many people who usually make the right call with recruits missed this one. The majority of my sources also indicated Dunlap would be a Gamecock, while a few seemed to think he wasn't as set in stone to Carolina as many people thought. The truth lies in the fact that no recruiting informantion guru knows where a kid will sign in the absolute end. The things we are told are just tidbits of information (reliable information in WB and a few other's case).

Sure, I am dissapointed in Carlos' decision, and I am just as shocked as everyone on this board, but anybody that thinks this will SERIOUSLY hurt our recruiting class is blind. Ok, so Georgia just leapfrogged us for #7. Does that ONE spot truly matter? Or better yet, does that ONE PLAYER even truly matter? I use to be skeptical about this subject, but now I honestly believe we all put too much emphasis on recruiting rankings now. There is little difference between even the #10 and #1 class in the nation. The more important factor is getting the players you need for the desired position. From what I'm seeing, the staff has already done one hell of a job along the entire DL this year, our most needed area of ballplayers.

Now that this is over with, we, as fans, need to go and move on. He has phenominal potential and will be a superstar for the Gator's once his technique catches up to his amazing athletic ability. It would have been great to have Carlos in Garnet and Black, but let's focus on what we have now, not what we could have had before...

[OmahaBound]

I don't know about Culliver...I think he was offered the chance to play WR if he committed that weekend. The Gators don't need WRs...or DB for that matter. Culliver is more than likely a Cock...at least, that's what I've been told...by the same people that told me Dunlap was a Gator yesterday.

Dunlap has qualified...at least, according to the information UF received from his HS...that's the reason he finally received his offer Saturday.

Dunlap's coach just said on the radio that he's qualified as long as he keeps his current grades up this semester. Hopefully he will cause I think he could be a stud 2nd teamer next year. As most of the Cocks fans have said, I wish him the best of luck in every game but the ones vs. USC.

[Kevhugh]

I can back WB up 100% on this. Many people who usually make the right call with recruits missed this one. The majority of my sources also indicated Dunlap would be a Gamecock, while a few seemed to think he wasn't as set in stone to Carolina as many people thought. The truth lies in the fact that no recruiting informantion guru knows where a kid will sign in the absolute end. The things we are told are just tidbits of information (reliable information in WB and a few other's case).

Sure, I am dissapointed in Carlos' decision, and I am just as shocked as everyone on this board, but anybody that thinks this will SERIOUSLY hurt our recruiting class is blind. Ok, so Georgia just leapfrogged us for #7. Does that ONE spot truly matter? Or better yet, does that ONE PLAYER even truly matter? I use to be skeptical about this subject, but now I honestly believe we all put too much emphasis on recruiting rankings now. There is little difference between even the #10 and #1 class in the nation. The more important factor is getting the players you need for the desired position. From what I'm seeing, the staff has already done one hell of a job along the entire DL this year, our most needed area of ballplayers.

Now that this is over with, we, as fans, need to go and move on. He has phenominal potential and will be a superstar for the Gator's once his technique catches up to his amazing athletic ability. It would have been great to have Carlos in Garnet and Black, but let's focus on what we have now, not what we could have had before...


Well said....+rep from me

[Fl_native]

Culliver is more important than Carlos because Spurriers offense needs speed; Meyer's offense needs a great defense.

[usccop]

Meyer's offense needs a great defense.
Haha, that's the funniest true statement I've read all day. Thanks for that.

[Fl_native]

I have been following the Gamecocks since Spurrier went there, he has enough players there now to win the SEC. He almost beat Florida again this year with a team that had little experience and no depth.
Did you see Meyer gulp when the field goal try was blocked? It is called "Welcome to the SEC" where any team can beat you on a given day.

[raptorcox]

Lets not forget that Florida did just win a national title and that might have had something to do with it. Everyone knew Meyer was praising the national title thing and that's probably the only thing Dunlap remembers when he made his decision.


TaySC here :happy:

Hate to say it, but when everyone was jumping on the SEC chant I was warning everyone that Florida winning the title would come back to haunt us and noone wanted to hear it.

The truly bad thing is that we backed off of Sheard that is a highly touted 4 star because Dunlap silently committed to USC a few weeks back.

I know some don't believe this, but those in the know will verify that SOS is PISSED right now....

[JerryBeeds]

Getting Culliver will make me feel alot better. Carlos is a huge talent and make no mistake I wish we'd have gotten him but we have done pretty well this year at the DE position. I guess this just means more PT for Cliff Matthews and Clifton Geathers. Good luck to Carlos at UF! (Except for one saturday every November).:goodjob:

[WayzUp]

I can back WB up 100% on this. Many people who usually make the right call with recruits missed this one. The majority of my sources also indicated Dunlap would be a Gamecock, while a few seemed to think he wasn't as set in stone to Carolina as many people thought. The truth lies in the fact that no recruiting informantion guru knows where a kid will sign in the absolute end. The things we are told are just tidbits of information (reliable information in WB and a few other's case).

Sure, I am dissapointed in Carlos' decision, and I am just as shocked as everyone on this board, but anybody that thinks this will SERIOUSLY hurt our recruiting class is blind. Ok, so Georgia just leapfrogged us for #7. Does that ONE spot truly matter? Or better yet, does that ONE PLAYER even truly matter? I use to be skeptical about this subject, but now I honestly believe we all put too much emphasis on recruiting rankings now. There is little difference between even the #10 and #1 class in the nation. The more important factor is getting the players you need for the desired position. From what I'm seeing, the staff has already done one hell of a job along the entire DL this year, our most needed area of ballplayers.

Now that this is over with, we, as fans, need to go and move on. He has phenominal potential and will be a superstar for the Gator's once his technique catches up to his amazing athletic ability. It would have been great to have Carlos in Garnet and Black, but let's focus on what we have now, not what we could have had before...Took the words right out of my mouth. Nothing is ever certain when it comes to recruiting, these past two years have shown us that, as if the past 50 years hadn't already & we just choose to have selective amnesia to make the recruiting season more interesting.

I'm guilty of it in a lot of respects but NIC made a good point in how it's really the class as a whole to fill needs rather than one guy. I'm sure I speak for all Gamecocks when I say I wish he would have chosen us but even without Dunlap, we've filled a big need at DE/DT with a bunch of other solid players. Hopefully, last year's class of OL and the couple we got coming in this year will off-set losing out on a heck of a player in Dunlap.


There are no locks. Even if the kid says it himself, until that LOI is signed, it's all just conversation. ~Wayzstradamus :happy:

[blockallhaters]

Getting Culliver will make me feel alot better. Carlos is a huge talent and make no mistake I wish we'd have gotten him but we have done pretty well this year at the DE position. I guess this just means more PT for Cliff Matthews and Clifton Geathers. Good luck to Carlos at UF! (Except for one saturday every November).:goodjob: I am glad we got him but I hate one of us had to lose out on him. I will say this like I have said before OBC can win with a stick of gum . I said also seem to be alot of mad cocks but not on here . I thank goodness I found this site we all want whats best for our schools but care for the SEC. I heared the radio broadcast and heared alot of bad on this site it is alot like fresh air. Obc never had a high rank class and still found a way too make players better!! Thank you all the Cock fans !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[scfan5338]

Culliver Is A Gamecock, unfocially that is!!!!!!!!!!!

Culliver Says He's A Gamecock
By Phil Kornblut
WR Chris Culliver (6-1 190) of Garner, NC said Monday night he has committed to USC choosing the Gamecocks over Florida. "I just want to play for coach Spurrier," he said. "I just want to be there." Culliver made his official visit to USC over the weekend. He plans a formal announcement Wednesday. Culliver had 1500 all purpose yards this season on offense. As a defensive back he had 147 tackles and 4 interceptions.

I knew he was good but those numbers in one season is just plain ridiculous!!!!!

[Gibber]

For me the thing that hurts about losing Carlos to the gators is they got a package deal. (2 for 1) I believe that his teammate who is a jr and a outstanding ball player himself (projected as a 4* or 5* next year) said he would go where Carlos went.

Does anyone have infromation on this?

[NineInchCock]

January 22, 2007
Culliver Says He's A Gamecock
By Phil Kornblut
WR Chris Culliver (6-1 190) of Garner, NC said Monday night he has committed to USC choosing the Gamecocks over Florida. "I just want to play for coach Spurrier," he said. "I just want to be there." Culliver made his official visit to USC over the weekend. He plans a formal announcement Wednesday. Culliver had 1500 all purpose yards this season on offense. As a defensive back he had 147 tackles and 4 interceptions.

Classy move to announce right after Dunlap's blow!

[OmahaBound]

Classy move to announce right after Dunlap's blow!

Exactly what I was thinking. That definitely shows he fully understands the recruiting process, and the likely defeated feeling some USC fans would be having today. Most importantly it prevents the questioning of whether he's still leaning our way.

[pc72687]

Well, it sucks we lost him but we did get Culliver so that is good news!

[uscgrad68]

I hear he did not enroll for January and he is visiting another school. Is he still a "solid verbal?"

[usccop]

couldn't enroll in January, you only get seven, and we allowed those to other guys. don't know about the visits, sorry

[raptorcox]

I hear he did not enroll for January and he is visiting another school. Is he still a "solid verbal?"

He is still coming in, but had to wait til the summer...

[GatorHunter]

I have been following the Gamecocks since Spurrier went there, he has enough players there now to win the SEC. He almost beat Florida again this year with a team that had little experience and no depth.
Did you see Meyer gulp when the field goal try was blocked? It is called "Welcome to the SEC" where any team can beat you on a given day.

Don't sound like much of a Gator to me...:laugh:

BTW, Meyer's offense did pretty well in the SEC this season, look at stats...also looked pretty good in the SEC Championship Game and the National Championship Game...:laugh:

[Fl_native]

Don't sound like much of a Gator to me...:laugh:

BTW, Meyer's offense did pretty well in the SEC this season, look at stats...also looked pretty good in the SEC Championship Game and the National Championship Game...:laugh:
I am logged in as Fl_native (5th gen), and ex-Gator fan, just haven't updated profile since they hired Meyer. I lost interest when they hired Doug Dickey and lowered the academic standards for football players. Proud of that? Then came good old Charlie "cheat-um" Pell who at least fell on his sword.
Mainly I like to watch Spurrier's offense and don't like to watch Meyer's offense. I was hoping they could get Patrino which would have been great to watch.
Florida probably had the best defense they have ever fielded, didn't say they weren't good.
It is just a game and entertainment. I still miss Reaves to Alvarez, Did you see them play in their freshman year? (back when freshman played 4 or 5 games against other freshman teams) Averaged about 65 ponts a game.

[GatorHunter]

I am logged in as Fl_native (5th gen), and ex-Gator fan, just haven't updated profile since they hired Meyer. I lost interest when they hired Doug Dickey and lowered the academic standards for football players. Proud of that? Then came good old Charlie "cheat-um" Pell who at least fell on his sword.
Mainly I like to watch Spurrier's offense and don't like to watch Meyer's offense. I was hoping they could get Patrino which would have been great to watch.
Florida probably had the best defense they have ever fielded, didn't say they weren't good.
It is just a game and entertainment. I still miss Reaves to Alvarez, Did you see them play in their freshman year? (back when freshman played 4 or 5 games against other freshman teams) Averaged about 65 ponts a game.

To each his own, I guess...

Pell was a cheatin' fool, no doubt...but all the teams were cheatin' like crazy in the '80s...Pell was just the one that got caught. Man, I've heard some stories about Pat Dye that would make you cringe.

I liked watching Spurrier's offenses too...I graduated from UF in May '97...with Wuerffel and Bates...good times. But Spurrier isn't bigger than the University...and I support the Gators no matter who the coach is...and Meyer has turned out to be the best of the bunch.

[GatorHunter]

lowered the academic standards for football players. Proud of that?

Don't know where you got that...besides Vandy, UF has the highest academic standards for athletes in the SEC...not to mention a 80+% graduation rate for athletes...second only to Vandy. SC certainly can't say that...remember OJ Murdock? He couldn't qualify at UF...so he went to SC.

BTW, yes...I'm proud.

[shanksta13]

Don't know where you got that...besides Vandy, UF has the highest academic standards for athletes in the SEC...not to mention a 80+% graduation rate for athletes...second only to Vandy. SC certainly can't say that...remember OJ Murdock? He couldn't qualify at UF...so he went to SC.

BTW, yes...I'm proud.

Yeah ditto that. Here is a website for ya!

SAT Registration - SAT Scores - College Search - College Admissions (http://www.collegeboard.com/)

[raptorcox]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator.....

This is a huge mystery as he is very good friends with numerous Gamecock commitments, has been talking to them nonstop, silently committed to USC 2 weeks ago, has a father that wants him at USC, etc.....

Not saying that he will change his commitment, but we all know that until the dotted line is signed, nothing is impossible.

Anyone questioning W-B's sources needs to think again...... his sources were dead on from what everyone was being told and you can only report what you have been told from the "horses mouth."

I will say that it wouldn't surprise me IF he does change his commitment though.

[OmahaBound]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator.....

Can you explain what that means, cause it sure seems implausible?

[GatorHunter]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator....

:laugh: :welcome: :uglyhamme :icon_rofl :LOL_Hair: :lol: :rolling2: :lolup:

Sorry raptor, but that is the funniest thing I've heard today...if he didn't want to be a Gator...he would have chose the other school 4 hours ago...:whistle:

[uscrules]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator.....

This is a huge mystery as he is very good friends with numerous Gamecock commitments, has been talking to them nonstop, silently committed to USC 2 weeks ago, has a father that wants him at USC, etc.....

Not saying that he will change his commitment, but we all know that until the dotted line is signed, nothing is impossible.

Anyone questioning W-B's sources needs to think again...... his sources were dead on from what everyone was being told and you can only report what you have been told from the "horses mouth."

I will say that it wouldn't surprise me IF he does change his commitment though.
I don't look for this to happen but it does happen every year. I think Culliver meets our needs more than Dunlap. He would have been a tremendous addition to our already stellar class, but Culliver gives us speed and depth at the WR position.

[Dr. Pepper]

I listened to Dunlap's announcement and then had to run to a seminar. During the 5 hours since he announced UF, I have reflected on this situation and I am curious about a few things.

1. He said, "I love my state schools." Rejecting your state school does not sound like love to me. I do not know if he had made a silent commitment to USC or not, but if he did, then he betrayed us. I am not feeling a lot of love right now.

2. He said, "I have to do what is best for me." What does that mean? It can't mean playing time, because he would have had plenty (if not more) playing time at USC. Also, UF just won the national title which means that he can only help them keep the title which will be a very difficult thing to do. I do not begrudge anyone who wants to play for a champion. The excitement in Gainesville is pretty intoxicating to anyone who might be recruited by them. He may be extremely frustrated when they get knocked off the top of the hill. Part of the fun is getting to the top, which is what he could have been a part of at Carolina.

3. There did not seem to be a lot of excitement at Ft. Dorchester High School with the announcement. It sounded like the gym was packed but there was only a smattering of applause (probably Clemson fans) when he announced.

Did he make a mistake? I do not know. Time will tell.

Am I disappointed? A little. But not simply because of Dunlap's choice. If he did not want to be there, then that is OK. I just want everyone to want to be at Carolina. And, fortunately, plenty of quality people want to be at Carolina right now. We are in great shape with or without Dunlap. Spurrier will have us on top, and the guys who are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to play for the Gamecocks will have much to celebrate.

Finally, a lot will happen over the next few weeks. There may be more surprises in store. I just hope that they are good surprises.

[gamecockvic]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator.....

This is a huge mystery as he is very good friends with numerous Gamecock commitments, has been talking to them nonstop, silently committed to USC 2 weeks ago, has a father that wants him at USC, etc.....

Not saying that he will change his commitment, but we all know that until the dotted line is signed, nothing is impossible.

Anyone questioning W-B's sources needs to think again...... his sources were dead on from what everyone was being told and you can only report what you have been told from the "horses mouth."

I will say that it wouldn't surprise me IF he does change his commitment though.

This has been a real surprise to everyone, including Gator fans. I heard him say he gave a silent commit to our coaches. Everyone would have agreed that he is a fine young man. Combine that with a father who played for Carolina and it is very strange that (1) he cancelled his in home with HBC tomorrow and (2) he did not advise our staff of his "change". One would think he would have the in home and tell HBC he had changed his mind. Isn't it also odd that his friends going to Carolina were kept in the dark despite almost continual contact by text message?

All of this may be as it appears or there may be something behind the scene we don't know about. All of this will shake out over the next two weeks. I respect whatever decision he makes, but I am not sure it is over either. Maybe Raptor will be right. Now that would be FUNNY!!!

Go Cocks!!!

[gamecockvic]

I don't look for this to happen but it does happen every year. I think Culliver meets our needs more than Dunlap. He would have been a tremendous addition to our already stellar class, but Culliver gives us speed and depth at the WR position.

With Culliver and Mark Barnes able to play both WR & DB, it lso gives us great flexibility. Both will be on the field somewhere. Can you imagine speedy, tall Db's like these? Or them being used as deep threats as well as game breakers on shorter routes? We are getting depth and quality at those positions with this class.

Go Cocks!!!!

[Williams-Brice]

WB & GTmorris

I would like to know what happened if you find out. This surprises me more than any other one this year. What about not having a good visit? Texting our commits while at FLA? Telling our coaches he was coming?

I'm able to confirm that all of that did indeed take place, except that he didn't have a good time at Florida. I'm just shocked. I've never seen a situation where literally everyone was wrong about a kid. Dunlap did commit to Carolina, he was in constant contact with our guys this weekend, and he told our coaches he was coming until recently. Dunlap said a few weeks ago that he wanted to tell the coaches of the schools he did not select that he would be going elsewhere to their faces. I guess he just decided to leave the Carolina coaches hanging. He committed to us a few weeks ago, and we immediately dropped contact with a few defensive end prospects in response. Carlos really led us on, but oh well.

[Williams-Brice]

Culliver is more important than Carlos because Spurriers offense needs speed; Meyer's offense needs a great defense.

Spurrier can score with anyone he throws out there. He needs a defense.

[Williams-Brice]

For me the thing that hurts about losing Carlos to the gators is they got a package deal. (2 for 1) I believe that his teammate who is a jr and a outstanding ball player himself (projected as a 4* or 5* next year) said he would go where Carlos went.

Does anyone have infromation on this?

He said he would like to play with Carlos, but he would make a completely independent decision. I'm not worried about Robert Quinn right now. He'll go through the recruiting process all on his own. That situation will take care of itself.

[Williams-Brice]

I hear he did not enroll for January and he is visiting another school. Is he still a "solid verbal?"

He is solid. He didn't enroll in January because we did not have enough room due to Clifton Geathers qualifying. He visited Kentucky last month and didn't like it enough to change his mind. That's the only other school he has visited and the only school he will visit.

[Williams-Brice]

Don't know where you got that...besides Vandy, UF has the highest academic standards for athletes in the SEC...not to mention a 80+% graduation rate for athletes...second only to Vandy. SC certainly can't say that...remember OJ Murdock? He couldn't qualify at UF...so he went to SC.

BTW, yes...I'm proud.

Pretty much the main difference between our athletic academic standards is that Florida requires 3 years of a foreign language, while USC only requires 2 years. Per Tony Morrell of Gamecock Central, there were a few Florida players last year who got in with a sub-800 SAT score.

[GatorHunter]

He is solid. He didn't enroll in January because we did not have enough room due to Clifton Geathers qualifying. He visited Kentucky last month and didn't like it enough to change his mind. That's the only other school he has visited and the only school he will visit.

I don't think there's a limit for early enrollees...

[Williams-Brice]

Word from inside sources is that Dunlap really doesn't want to be a Gator.....

Then explain to me why he just spurned the school he already committed to. Why would he do that if he didn't want to be a Gator?

[Williams-Brice]

I don't think there's a limit for early enrollees...

There is. At least there is in our case. Addison Williams has already graduated from high school, and he was ready to come to Carolina this semester. However, our coaches told him he couldn't because Clifton Geathers was cleared.

[GatorHunter]

Pretty much the main difference between our athletic academic standards is that Florida requires 3 years of a foreign language, while USC only requires 2 years. Per Tony Morrell of Gamecock Central, there were a few Florida players last year who got in with a sub-800 SAT score.

Not calling Mr. Morrell a liar, but I'd have to see that to believe it. We had zero academic casualties last season...Grant, the 5* LB that started for Ohio State this season couldn't get into UF due to a low SAT score...

Another difference in UF academic standards....if a student takes Algebra and makes an "F"...then takes it again and makes an "A"....most schools take the "higher" grade and drop the lower when averaging core classes. UF doesn't...they take the "A" and "F" and average them both. That's the reason OJ Murdock couldn't get into UF...he had several repeats and when the cores were averaged, he didn't meet academic requirements.

All of these "factors" are argumentative...what's not is the fact that, aside from Vandy, UF graduates the highest % of athletes in the SEC...you don't get that # unless you recruit good student athletes...which Meyer is insistant on.

[GatorHunter]

There is. At least there is in our case. Addison Williams has already graduated from high school, and he was ready to come to Carolina this semester. However, our coaches told him he couldn't because Clifton Geathers was cleared.

The only limit is how many schollies can be affected...if you sign 23 one year, you can bring in 2 early enrollees the next and count back to 25...however, you can bring in as many early enrollees as you want, they just will count against current schollies...at least that's the NCAA rule...UF has 9 this year. Although, for some reason, some schools don't allow or limit EEs...ND was one, until this season...don't know why, Spring ball is a huge advantage for the new freshman.

[OmahaBound]

...they just will count against current schollies...at least that's the NCAA rule.

i don't know the numbers, nor do i care enough to check it, but since we have 7 early enrollees this year it may be that we've reached our limit for current schollies.

[gamecockvic]

I'm able to confirm that all of that did indeed take place, except that he didn't have a good time at Florida. I'm just shocked. I've never seen a situation where literally everyone was wrong about a kid. Dunlap did commit to Carolina, he was in constant contact with our guys this weekend, and he told our coaches he was coming until recently. Dunlap said a few weeks ago that he wanted to tell the coaches of the schools he did not select that he would be going elsewhere to their faces. I guess he just decided to leave the Carolina coaches hanging. He committed to us a few weeks ago, and we immediately dropped contact with a few defensive end prospects in response. Carlos really led us on, but oh well.

I really appreciate it. I still have the feeling that there is another piece to the puzzle we are not seeing. The next two weeks may reveal it. If this is really his choice, God bless him and best wishes for a good career. Nothing would surprise me now. Hope you aced the exam. Thank again!

This is still a killer class. HBC may still have a few tricks for them. Go Cocks!

[FLgamecockJAX]

CD told P Kornblut he really wanted to go to Carolina, but UF was a good place also. That makes no sense to me. I don't understand these kind of comments.

[GTmorris1970]

CD told P Kornblut he really wanted to go to Carolina, but UF was a good place also. That makes no sense to me. I don't understand these kind of comments.

What I can tell you is he DID commit to the Carolina coaching staff. Everyone over there was SHOCKED to say the least. Several comments he made make no sense to me, like "I got to meet the Florida coaches kids, but at Carolina only their wives." Yep, that would surely make my mind up. We also have to remember he has not SIGNED yet. It will be interesting to see if Spurrier and staff go on about their business, or turn up the heat on Dunlap still. That is what kills me about these 5 star guys. More drama than a dang soap opera. Lastly, let's remember we have already got commits from two pretty dawg gone good looking four star DE's. The world did not end yesterday.

[GTmorris1970]

Just a couple of hours after the Dunlap shocker, word comes out Culliver committed to Carolina. He then says he is still mulling the situation over, and will not announce until around noon tomorrow. This morning on the radio news they are still saying Culliver is committed to Carolina. This is crazy I tell ya!!! And, I'm lovin every minute of it!! :laugh:

[GamecockDieHard]

My plumber's cousin's wife's step-brother heard from the electrician's wife's mistress when she was having an affair with the german-shepard at Meyer's house that she heard both Culliver and Dunlap were going to publicly commit to UF and then do a switch-a-rooney on NSD to opt for the Gamecocks.

(The only words she was sure she heard was switch-a-rooney. So take it for what's it's worth.)

[GTmorris1970]

My plumber's cousin's wife's step-brother heard from the electrician's wife's mistress when she was having an affair with the german-shepard at Meyer's house that she heard both Culliver and Dunlap were going to publicly commit to UF and then do a switch-a-rooney on NSD to opt for the Gamecocks.

(The only words she was sure she heard was switch-a-rooney. So take it for what's it's worth.)

The information I give comes from VERY reliable sources. As a matter of fact, Phil Kornblut announced the news on Culliver if you are familar with him. Take it for what it's worth. I say again. Dunlap WAS committed to Carolina. This was a shock to all involved on the Carolina side.

[USAFGAMECOCK]

Was Spurrier supposed to do an in-home visit with Dunlap today? If so, I guess he won't be making that trip.

[GTmorris1970]

Was Spurrier supposed to do an in-home visit with Dunlap today? If so, I guess he won't be making that trip.

Yes. It was planned for this evening. Now, from what I have heard, Spurrier said he would not follow through with it if he committed to UF. I am not sure Carlos would allow it anyway. If I hear different, I will let ya know.

[Williams-Brice]

Carlos cancelled that visit.

[GTmorris1970]

Spurrier will not pursue Dunlap any further unless he gives an indication he is waivering, but it is likely over. He will also not request an in-home visit. Carlos would have to request it. Dunlap also has quite a bit of work to do to qualify. CARLOS DUNLAP DID INDEED COMMIT TO CAROLINA DURING HIS OFFICIAL VISIT (For what it's worth).

Culliver is expected to qualify, and Dunlap's decision will have no affect on Culliver's. Culliver is still expected to be a Gamecock tomorrow.

[Carolina Cowboy]

My question is will we now take a look at Brian Ellis?

[Williams-Brice]

Brian Ellis is a linebacker. Dunlap's decision doesn't change our stance on Ellis. For those of you wondering about Josh Bynes, I personally think it's a good sign that we have not gone after Ellis after Bynes visited this past weekend. I'm not saying Bynes committed, but it looks like our staff is comfortable with the linebackers we are bringing in this year.

[GTmorris1970]

WB, as you I'm sure have heard Bynes told some coaches and players he was coming on his official visit. However, as we have all seen that does not necessarily mean anything.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I like your picture WB. Do you think we will push for any other Blue chip Players before NSD?

[GTmorris1970]

Posted on Tue, Jan. 23, 2007

Culliver picks USC over Florida

Wide receiver Chris Culliver (6-foot-1, 190 pounds) of Garner, N.C., said Monday night he has committed to USC, choosing the Gamecocks over Florida.

“I just want to play for coach Spurrier,” he said. “I just want to be there.”

Culliver visited USC over the weekend. He plans a formal announcement Wednesday. Culliver had 1,500 all-purpose yards this season on offense. As a defensive back, he had 147 tackles and four interceptions.

— Phil Kornblut

[GTmorris1970]

Culliver will play WR at Carolina. I also find it a very classy move by Culliver that he made this announcement only about 2 hrs. after Dunlap has shocked Gamecock nation. These are the type players we want here. Those that wish to be here. So we get one five star, and miss one. Big deal.

[USAFGAMECOCK]

Carlos cancelled that visit.

Good deal. I didn't think that visit would take place after he committed to the Gators.

My dad told me to ask about a guy named Carver. I've never heard of him but does anybody know who he is and if we've been recruiting him?

[Williams-Brice]

WB, as you I'm sure have heard Bynes told some coaches and players he was coming on his official visit. However, as we have all seen that does not necessarily mean anything.

Exactly. It doesn't mean anything, so I didn't want to get everyone's hopes up on what could have been an empty promise.

[WayzUp]

Bynes, Sanders, whomever....at this point, I think I'll wait the couple-three weeks to National Signing Day and get my hopes up late that afternoon after all the LOI's have been received. I hope we get them all and whatever surprises Rivals and all the "experts" conjure up to get us to speculate as to what players are locks and/or rethinking their choices.

One thing I am grateful to Carlos Dunlap for and this isn't bitterness or sour grapes, is a reinforcement that nothing is certain in recruiting. Carlos Brown, Gary Gray, Clifton Geathers, Olufemi Ojiboye, Carlos Dunlap....the only rule that is certain is 'You win some, you lose some'. Some go and come back, some go and never play a down for whatever reason, some go on to great careers.

But Spurrier said it best, "We try not to mope around about guys we don't have. We try to stay excited about who we do have." And once again, I'm with Coach Spurrier....good luck Carlos, see you back in Columbia on 11/10/07.

[GTmorris1970]

Carolina is ranked #7 in recruiting now, number 4 in the ESPN poll. This is before the Culliver commit. I will take it.

[GTmorris1970]

Now that Dunlap has gone to UF, Carolina will being turning up the heat on 3 star DE Damario Ambrose from Mobile, AL. They have been in contact with him, but were expecting to get Dunlap. This shows the staff has a backup plan for everything.

Carolina has an in-home with Bynes later this week.

Carolina's two biggest needs coming in were DL and WR. They are building nationally elite classes at both positions.

The two main concerns for 2007 are the def. secondary and interior offensive line. Hopefully we can get a core group together in the spring, so they can practice together until fall.

[gamecockvic]

Carlos cancelled that visit.

Nice touch!!

[gamecockvic]

What about Sheard? Did backing off him kill the deal with him? This is still a GREAT class at DE even if we don't offer another DE. We already had some good players returning and added Robertson, Matthews and Geathers. That is a talented group!

Go Cocks!

[GTmorris1970]

What about Sheard? Did backing off him kill the deal with him? This is still a GREAT class at DE even if we don't offer another DE. We already had some good players returning and added Robertson, Matthews and Geathers. That is a talented group!

Go Cocks!

From my understanding we are done with Sheard.

[GTmorris1970]

J. Barnes was just upgraded to four star status.

[pc72687]

So has anyone moved up or down in the rankings? I ask because I just saw Barnes moved up but I was wondering if anyone else did.

[GTmorris1970]

So has anyone moved up or down in the rankings? I ask because I just saw Barnes moved up but I was wondering if anyone else did.

He is the only one I have that moved up so far. Not sure about down. I will try to find out.

[raptorcox]

Just a couple of hours after the Dunlap shocker, word comes out Culliver committed to Carolina. He then says he is still mulling the situation over, and will not announce until around noon tomorrow. This morning on the radio news they are still saying Culliver is committed to Carolina. This is crazy I tell ya!!! And, I'm lovin every minute of it!! :laugh:

Yeah, some people on my site are REALLY worried about Culliver now as he allegedly has said that he did not tell PK that he was a Gamecock, but that he said that USC was a slight lean......

The plot thickens and I just might have to turn it all off until NSD as the high profile recruits want to much drama and this is little more than an attention grabbing game to them.

They realize once they get into college that they are nothing more than a rookie freshman that has to start from scratch to prove themselves at this level.

[GTmorris1970]

Yeah, some people on my site are REALLY worried about Culliver now as he allegedly has said that he did not tell PK that he was a Gamecock, but that he said that USC was a slight lean......

The plot thickens and I just might have to turn it all off until NSD as the high profile recruits want to much drama and this is little more than an attention grabbing game to them.

They realize once they get into college that they are nothing more than a rookie freshman that has to start from scratch to prove themselves at this level.


It was said again this afternoon that we are in good shape with Culliver.

[raptorcox]

Now that Dunlap has gone to UF, Carolina will being turning up the heat on 3 star DE Damario Ambrose from Mobile, AL. They have been in contact with him, but were expecting to get Dunlap. This shows the staff has a backup plan for everything.

Carolina has an in-home with Bynes later this week.

Carolina's two biggest needs coming in were DL and WR. They are building nationally elite classes at both positions.

The two main concerns for 2007 are the def. secondary and interior offensive line. Hopefully we can get a core group together in the spring, so they can practice together until fall.

what happened to Sheard???

He was the backup plan for Dunlap....

EDITED: Just saw the other comments on Sheard. I think we screwed the pooch here as from what I am hearing, this kid is ALMOST as good as Dunlap and would have been an awesome "backup plan."

[raptorcox]

It was said again this afternoon that we are in good shape with Culliver.

said again as in he talked to our coaches or PK again......

OR

as in PK reported the same thing from last night again?

All I have seen is the thing quoting the conversation from last night.

[GTmorris1970]

said again as in he talked to our coaches or PK again......

OR

as in PK reported the same thing from last night again?

All I have seen is the thing quoting the conversation from last night.

It came from Tony Morrell, so I would imagine, and am quite sure the coaches have spoken to him today.

[raptorcox]

Gotcha..... I am not a paying member, so all I had to go by is this:

January 23, 2007

Did Culliver Committ?

Tony Morrell
GamecockCentral.com Recruiting Analyst


As a certain broadcaster would say, "Not so fast, my friend." Reports surfaced on Monday of a possible early commitment by five-star wide receiver Chris Culliver to the South Carolina Gamecocks. Find out whether those reports were accurate in this update

[Williams-Brice]

What about Sheard? Did backing off him kill the deal with him? This is still a GREAT class at DE even if we don't offer another DE. We already had some good players returning and added Robertson, Matthews and Geathers. That is a talented group!

Go Cocks!

We dropped Sheard the day after Carlos Dunlap committed to us.

[Williams-Brice]

what happened to Sheard???

He was the backup plan for Dunlap....

EDITED: Just saw the other comments on Sheard. I think we screwed the pooch here as from what I am hearing, this kid is ALMOST as good as Dunlap and would have been an awesome "backup plan."

Sheard is nowhere near as good as Dunlap, and he has nowhere near the amount of upside Dunlap has. There is a reason why Dunlap is ranked #5 in the country and why Sheard is not in the Top 250.

[NineInchCock]

As I was sitting back today, I just remembered something. I completely forgot that Jarriel King was coming in next year. He's a 5-Star JUCO DE from GMA. Surely he'll be good as well.

[Williams-Brice]

Yeah, he'll be in the 2008 recruiting class. It's sounding like he will be the best prospect to ever come from GMA, and it's likely that he will be a 5-star prospect.

[scfan5338]

Yeah, he'll be in the 2008 recruiting class. It's sounding like he will be the best prospect to ever come from GMA, and it's likely that he will be a 5-star prospect.

That's a huge compliment for him cause a lot of good players have come out of GMA in the past several years. Hopefully he stays committed to us and enrolls early at Carolina.

[pc72687]

Which is interesting because he was a 2-star prospect out of high school (king).

[Carolina Cowboy]

WB was he a sighn and place? Is he already a USC commit?

[scfan5338]

WB was he a sighn and place? Is he already a USC commit?

not WB, but I think he is a USC commit but you know when guys get that good and are ranked as high as he will be, more and more teams are going to start recruting him.

[Williams-Brice]

He is 100% USC and has been that way ever since he committed to the Gamecocks out of high school. He tried very hard to get Wynn and Irvin to sign with us, and during the process he publically stated that he is not going through the recruiting process again because he is 100% Gamecock.

[OmahaBound]

Bynes Announcement Might Come Sooner
By Phil Kornblut
On Recruiting
Published: January 24, 2007
LB Josh Bynes (6-3 231) of Lauderdale Lakes, FL said Tuesday night he might not wait until Signing Day to announce his college decision. "I'm thinking about next Friday," Bynes said. "All four are still in it and next week I'll cut it to two and then announce either on Friday or Signing Day." Bynes made official visits to USC, Iowa, Auburn and Louisville and Tuesday night identified which school was the best in various categories:

Best overall visit...USC
Nicest players...Louisville
Best food...Iowa
Prettiest girls...USC
Friendliest staff...Iowa
Best chance to play early....all of them
Best academics...all of them
Best dorm...Louisville
Best stadium...Louisville
Best locker room...Auburn
Best weight room...USC

[bigbadbird]

Well excuse me for saying so, but if I'm eighteen then "prettiest girls" is going to be sky high on my list of priorities. Just me though!

[gamecockdroc]

That does sound good for us, prettiest girls, best weight room, best overall, great academics, a chance to play the best competition needs to be added but we all know that will knock Louis. and Iw.

[Williams-Brice]

Culliver is a Gamecock!

Athletics - Garner Magnet High School (http://garnerhs.wcpss.net/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=25&MMN_position=28:28)

[lacene]

Culliver is a Gamecock!

Athletics - Garner Magnet High School (http://garnerhs.wcpss.net/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=25&MMN_position=28:28)

How official is this? The date said Culliver would commit on the 23rd, but that was yesterday, when there were reports that Culliver was upset that Kornblut reported his commitment on the 22nd......


:brick:

[gamecockvic]

AWESOME WB!!!!

I didn't know they used him for kickoff returns. Wow, a speedster on the return team? And a playmaker at WR!

Go Cocks!!!

[Williams-Brice]

How official is this? The date said Culliver would commit on the 23rd, but that was yesterday, when there were reports that Culliver was upset that Kornblut reported his commitment on the 22nd......


:brick:

Try not to worry so much. Culliver is about to make his decision public. His decision to become a Gamecock was made a few weeks ago. Believe me, Florida is not pressing as much for Culliver as they were for Dunlap.

[NineInchCock]

He's officially a Gamecock now... you can start breathing again!:wink:

South Carolina Football: GamecockCentral.com (http://southcarolina.rivals.com/)

[lacene]

*exhales*

great news!!

So that leaves only Bynes, Saunders, and Cooper as possible remaining players we're shooting for? Are there any others I've missed? I know to skip on Gibson....

[Williams-Brice]

Skip on Cooper, too. We're only waiting on Bynes and Saunders.

[IrmoCock]

I guess the only drama left by signing day will be whether we can hold onto all of these studs.

[HughDamwright]

WB - Any insight on Bynes or Saunders?

[roosterbooster]

Well excuse me for saying so, but if I'm eighteen then "prettiest girls" is going to be sky high on my list of priorities. Just me though!


I was about to post the same thing. You beat me to it.

[WDavE]

You guys want to bet where Bynes signs?

[HughDamwright]

You guys want to bet where Bynes signs?


Well....Based on his assessment, most young men would rate number 4 at the top....followed closely by items 1, 6, and 7.

1. Best overall visit...USC
2. Nicest players...Louisville
3. Best food...Iowa
4. Prettiest girls...USC
5. Friendliest staff...Iowa
6. Best chance to play early....all of them
7. Best academics...all of them
8. Best dorm...Louisville
9. Best stadium...Louisville
10. Best locker room...Auburn
11.Best weight room...USC

However, since this has been a week of surprises, I will hurry up and wait on his decision

[WallyGoat]

Well....Based on his assessment, most young men would rate number 4 at the top....followed closely by items 1, 6, and 7.

1. Best overall visit...USC
2. Nicest players...Louisville
3. Best food...Iowa
4. Prettiest girls...USC
5. Friendliest staff...Iowa
6. Best chance to play early....all of them
7. Best academics...all of them
8. Best dorm...Louisville
9. Best stadium...Louisville
10. Best locker room...Auburn
11.Best weight room...USC

However, since this has been a week of surprises, I will hurry up and wait on his decision

While this has little to do with SC recruiting, Welcome to the site. :thumpsup: Enjoy. This site is full of Gamecock Faithful.

[WDavE]

Well....Based on his assessment, most young men would rate number 4 at the top....followed closely by items 1, 6, and 7.

1. Best overall visit...USC
2. Nicest players...Louisville
3. Best food...Iowa
4. Prettiest girls...USC
5. Friendliest staff...Iowa
6. Best chance to play early....all of them
7. Best academics...all of them
8. Best dorm...Louisville
9. Best stadium...Louisville
10. Best locker room...Auburn
11.Best weight room...USC

However, since this has been a week of surprises, I will hurry up and wait on his decision

Let me ask you a question or two if I may?

If you had always stated that your decision was coming on signing day. How would you make it suspenseful as possible? He has already stated that if forced to at this very moment. That USC and Auburn would be his two favorites. Yet, we get less mention then Louisville and Iowa in that poll.

What schools reporter did that interview?

I think you guys have a real shot at Bynes but you are not the current favorite going down the stretch....

Either way! Good Luck with your very nice class.....

[Fishmeister]

I've heard from coach and teammates that his favorites are AU and Iowa, but from him its the 2 SEC schools. I think he's a tigger.

Saunders, though, we have a decent shot at.

[Kevhugh]

My gut feeling is Bynes to Auburn and Saunders to UNC. I won't be heartbroken on either of those. Getting Culliver takes away a little bit of the sting of losing Dunlap. I agree that now we have two weeks to hold on to these guys and get them to sign the piece of paper.

[gamecockdroc]

My gut feeling is Bynes to Auburn and Saunders to UNC. I won't be heartbroken on either of those. Getting Culliver takes away a little bit of the sting of losing Dunlap. I agree that now we have two weeks to hold on to these guys and get them to sign the piece of paper.

Bynes did say that we were his best visit overall, I'm not saying that he is a gamecock but our chances are pretty good. Everyone thought Dunlap was a lock and look how that turned out, the florida people didn't know he was a gator until the night before he committed. All I'm saying is that it will definitley be more interesting than we think.

[raptorcox]

Actually, one source did predict 2 weeks ago that Dunlap was a Gator and that he was never ours. This same source very much likes our chances with Josh. (I do not know what he is within the Gamecock world, but the guy has been more accurate over the years than Kornblut himself.)

Nothing is set in stone for sure, but we stand a good chance with this kid..... of course AUB will pull out all the stops to try to get him, just as FLA did with Dunlap.

[Williams-Brice]

We lead for Saunders, but his dad is pushing for him to go to UNC. It's neck and neck with Bynes, as he is going back and forth between Auburn and USC. They are both too close to call right now.

[usccop]

You guys want to bet where Bynes signs?
yeah, I'll say in his high school for $100, what say you?

[Williams-Brice]

Dunlap's Phone Still Ringing
By Phil Kornblut
Two days after announcing a commitment to Florida, some recruiters are not letting up on Fort Dorchester DE Carlos Dunlap Jr. (6-6 245). "We've asked them to leave him alone for a while," his father said Wednesday afternoon. "He ain't doing nothing but going to school. As of right now, he says his mind is 100% made up. Even I have been trying to get inside his head." The elder Dunlap said Alabama coach Nick Saban has been trying to arrainge an in home visit but without success to his point. He said USC has adhered to their wishes and backed off. "It's a truly class act," he said of his alma mater. "They are doing it the right way. He was 95% sure on South Carolina befor his visit to Florida. He had actually committed to Carolina, a soft commitment. His desire is still to be at Carolina, but he feels the best playing opportunity is at Florida. But I will continue to show him what the school (Carolina) is about and what great people are down there." Dunlap said there is no plan right now for an in home visit from USC head coach Steve Spurrier.

[usccop]

kudos to the senior Dunlap, what an advertisement for our school

[OmahaBound]

Dunlap's Phone Still Ringing
By Phil Kornblut
Two days after announcing a commitment to Florida, some recruiters are not letting up on Fort Dorchester DE Carlos Dunlap Jr. (6-6 245). "We've asked them to leave him alone for a while," his father said Wednesday afternoon. "He ain't doing nothing but going to school. As of right now, he says his mind is 100% made up. Even I have been trying to get inside his head." The elder Dunlap said Alabama coach Nick Saban has been trying to arrainge an in home visit but without success to his point. He said USC has adhered to their wishes and backed off. "It's a truly class act," he said of his alma mater. "They are doing it the right way. He was 95% sure on South Carolina befor his visit to Florida. He had actually committed to Carolina, a soft commitment. His desire is still to be at Carolina, but he feels the best playing opportunity is at Florida. But I will continue to show him what the school (Carolina) is about and what great people are down there." Dunlap said there is no plan right now for an in home visit from USC head coach Steve Spurrier.

well there's the confirmation of his commitment to USC. he's probably not hearing from USC because Spurrier is pissed moreso than simply being respectful of their wishes, heh.

i have no problem with a kid changing his mind, but i would agree that if you're going to change your position you should let the first school know before announcing it to the world. i know this recruiting process can be hard on a kid, so i don't hold a grudge but it would have been the right thing to do.

[JerryBeeds]

Dunlap's Phone Still Ringing
By Phil Kornblut
His desire is still to be at Carolina, but he feels the best playing opportunity is at Florida.

Sounds like he's scared of competition.

[uscrules]

If he is as good as advertised, why would he worry at all about competing for playing time?

[pc72687]

I wouldn't give up on Dunlap yet, it sounds like his dad is pushing for SC. Us leaving him alone could be a good thing becuase it shows we won't push ourselves on someone. They have to want to come here. Which I am happy about.

[IrmoCock]

yeah, I'll say in his high school for $100, what say you?

Hehe...Hard to argue with that logic. Anybody want some of this action?:stickpoke

[IrmoCock]

I wouldn't give up on Dunlap yet, it sounds like his dad is pushing for SC. Us leaving him alone could be a good thing becuase it shows we won't push ourselves on someone. They have to want to come here. Which I am happy about.

Me thinks this aint over till the ink dries.

[raptorcox]

Everyone jumped on me when I commented that Dunlap didn't really want to be a Gator.


January 24, 2007
Dunlap's Phone Still Ringing
By Phil Kornblut

Two days after announcing a commitment to Florida, some recruiters are not letting up on Fort Dorchester DE Carlos Dunlap Jr. (6-6 245). "We've asked them to leave him alone for a while," his father said Wednesday afternoon. "He ain't doing nothing but going to school. As of right now, he says his mind is 100% made up. Even I have been trying to get inside his head." The elder Dunlap said Alabama coach Nick Saban has been trying to arrange an in home visit but without success to his point. He said USC has adhered to their wishes and backed off. "It's a truly class act," he said of his alma mater. "They are doing it the right way. He was 95% sure on South Carolina before his visit to Florida. He had actually committed to Carolina, a soft commitment. His desire is still to be at Carolina, but he feels the best playing opportunity is at Florida. But I will continue to show him what the school (Carolina) is about and what great people are down there." Dunlap said there is no plan right now for an in home visit from USC head coach Steve Spurrier.

He thinks that USC is deeper and he has less chance of immediately playing is why he chose FLA......

the above is a direct quote from HIS OWN FATHER.

[kyleeb]

I think he(Dunlap) will end up pulling a fast one on Florida.Just remember nothing is a done deal til he signs on the dotted line.This would be a great way to start a rivalry with florida.I remember Jonthan Hanna did that same thing to V.Tech a couple of years ago,jmo

[Kevhugh]

Let's just let this all go down on NSD and see what happens. There's no need to fall victim to the recruiting rumor mill over the next two weeks. Rivals or Scout is sure to drop the words "Dunlap" and "USC" in a teaser headline to try to generate some traffic/new members. I'd hate to see the Gamecock nation believe that Dunlap is going to change his mind based on a recruiting board headline. Remember, it was a month or so ago that the Gary Gray garbage started up again in just such a manner.

[GatorHunter]

:laugh:

What do you expect his father to say...or Kornblut to print for that matter.

I agree, it's never over until "Rosie O'Donell" sings...but the Gators aren't worried about Dunlap.

He said yesterday, in an interview with Scout..."I'm 100% committed to the Gators"...."I'm not taking anymore visits or phone calls"..."It's a done deal".

Remember, he didn't just commit to the Gators...his whole family did the "Gator Chomp"...

Hey, but it's fun to read the posts, I guess...:happy:

[OmahaBound]

:laugh:

What do you expect his father to say...or Kornblut to print for that matter.

I agree, it's never over until "Rosie O'Donell" sings...but the Gators aren't worried about Dunlap.

He said yesterday, in an interview with Scout..."I'm 100% committed to the Gators"...."I'm not taking anymore visits or phone calls"..."It's a done deal".

Remember, he didn't just commit to the Gators...his whole family did the "Gator Chomp"...

Hey, but it's fun to read the posts, I guess...:happy:

Hehe, I don't disagree with you GH but I will say the Gator Chomp certainly isn't going to prevent the kid from changing his mind over the next two weeks....it is unlikely but wouldn't be that shocking considering everyone seems to agree that Carolina was a serious contender to the very end. Last year we had a recruit go to school dressed in garnet and black, only to change his mind before signing the letter and signed with Auburn instead....so theatrics mean nothing, heh.

[GatorHunter]

Hehe, I don't disagree with you GH but I will say the Gator Chomp certainly isn't going to prevent the kid from changing his mind over the next two weeks....it is unlikely but wouldn't be that shocking considering everyone seems to agree that Carolina was a serious contender to the very end. Last year we had a recruit go to school dressed in garnet and black, only to change his mind before signing the letter and signed with Auburn instead....so theatrics mean nothing, heh.

Absolutely correct...we lost Robinson, McDaniel and Williams on NSD...although, we expected to lose McDaniel, found out the night before about Williams...but Robinson pulled the 'ol switcheroo for the thugs in tallycrappy.

But, from everything that I've read....Dunlap is a Gator!

Remember, he tried to commit to UF a few months ago...but didn't have an offer...as soon as he got one, he jumped on it. You never know, I guess...but I'm not worried.

[raptorcox]

Few things here:

GH asked what his father was supposed to say...... well, since they aren't supposed to be fielding any more calls, he isn't supposed to say ANYTHING. That's the entire reason he allegedly was announcing to completely end the process....

I am 90% sure he will in the end be a Gator, but you never know.

Heck, for that matter, Culliver could also do the switcheroo for all we know.

The thing that I find funny though is that Gator fans are doing kind of like the Bama fans were when they were looking for a coach. The Gator fans are being very cocky and acting like it can't happen to them......

Time will tell, but I know USC got several recruits that FLA wanted this season no matter how badly they try to deny it.

[GatorHunter]

Few things here:

GH asked what his father was supposed to say...... well, since they aren't supposed to be fielding any more calls, he isn't supposed to say ANYTHING. That's the entire reason he allegedly was announcing to completely end the process....

I am 90% sure he will in the end be a Gator, but you never know.

Heck, for that matter, Culliver could also do the switcheroo for all we know.

The thing that I find funny though is that Gator fans are doing kind of like the Bama fans were when they were looking for a coach. The Gator fans are being very cocky and acting like it can't happen to them......

Time will tell, but I know USC got several recruits that FLA wanted this season no matter how badly they try to deny it.

Carlos isn't taking anymore calls...I'm sure his father loves answering the phone and talking Gamecock sports...:whistle:

How are Gator fans being "cocky"? I said that I had "heard" that Carlos was choosing the Gators...but doubted it because of "everything coming from Kornblut". He all but said Dunlap would be a cock. I believed him and doubted my source. And believe me, there are several players that chose different schools that I was hoping would be Gators...Scott to OSU...AA to ND...and their will be several more....as far as USCe having "several recruits that Florida wanted"...I doubt that...not because I think that if the Gators would have wanted them we would have gotten them...but because the two teams had different needs this season...the only recruits that we've fought USCe for are Dunlap and Culliver. And make no mistake, I would have loved to have Culliver...but I knew we had plenty of WR and even if he did commit to UF...he would have probably transferred in a year or so because of our WR depth.

I could be wrong about Dunlap...but I doubt it.

[Fl_native]

Good analysis GH, USC hates to lose an in state 5* that had done a "soft" commit to USC but Culliver is more important to them. They need his speed, the Gators have speed to burn.

[GatorHunter]

Good analysis GH, USC hates to lose an in state 5* that had done a "soft" commit to USC but Culliver is more important to them. They need his speed, the Gators have speed to burn.

No doubt...and it scares me to think what Culliver will do in the Spurrier offense...he'll likely eclipse Rice's numbers IMO.

[Fl_native]

Rice is a terrific receiver but not the true Spurrier mold. There was nothing more fun to see than a Gator receiver cathing a deep pass at full speed.

[Carolina Cowboy]

I hope myer didn't use all of his trick plays this past year. SOS is headed to an SEC championship game.

[GatorHunter]

I hope myer didn't use all of his trick plays this past year. SOS is headed to an SEC championship game.

I don't think we've seen the true possibilities of the Meyer offense....USCe to the SEC Championship? Tebow, Harvin, Caldwell, Fayson may not agree with that...;)

[scfan5338]

I don't think we've seen the true possibilities of the Meyer offense....USCe to the SEC Championship? Tebow, Harvin, Caldwell, Fayson may not agree with that...;)

Yea, I'd have to agree with that one. I think he's getting a little ahead of himself right there. I dont think we are ready for a SEC Championship this year. We still need a little bit of work to do. Let the O-line and D-line gain a year or experience and then we can talk about SEC Championship.

As for Dunlap, I think he is 100% Gator, but then again he was a Carolina commit but we'll see. I think USC did a great job in backing off of him as soon as he commited. Our best recrutier right now is Dunlap Sr. He wants his son to go to Carolina.

[raptorcox]

All I know is USC is deep at the WR position as well......

We have a few returning starters, several that were redshirted and 8, count them 8, WR/TE's coming in this class.

[GTmorris1970]

Dunlap's dad is still talking to him. That one is not over yet.

[Williams-Brice]

:laugh:

What do you expect his father to say...or Kornblut to print for that matter.

I agree, it's never over until "Rosie O'Donell" sings...but the Gators aren't worried about Dunlap.

He said yesterday, in an interview with Scout..."I'm 100% committed to the Gators"...."I'm not taking anymore visits or phone calls"..."It's a done deal".

Remember, he didn't just commit to the Gators...his whole family did the "Gator Chomp"...

Hey, but it's fun to read the posts, I guess...:happy:

I understand where you are coming from with that, but you are also dealing with a kid who was committed to South Carolina until 15 minutes before his press conference. It wasn't until that point when he informed Coach Spurrier of his decision. I'm not going to get caught up in all of this hype because I think he is probably done. However, Gary Gray stood at a podium and performed a striptease that sent all of Gamecock Nation into a state of excited which had never been seen before. Minutes afterwards, he stated to several media outlets that he was done and 100% Gamecock. Well, we know how that one ended up. Anything is possible. However, I'll believe it when I see it.

In terms of Kornblut, he's not just pro-Carolina. He writes on every South Carolina high schooler who signs or commits to a football scholarship at any school at any level. He also writes just as many reports for Clemson, Coastal Carolina, Newberry, PC, The Citadel, etc. as he does for USC. His body of work represents the state of South Carolina, not the state's flagship university.

[GatorHunter]

I understand where you are coming from with that, but you are also dealing with a kid who was committed to South Carolina until 15 minutes before his press conference. It wasn't until that point when he informed Coach Spurrier of his decision. I'm not going to get caught up in all of this hype because I think he is probably done. However, Gary Gray stood at a podium and performed a striptease that sent all of Gamecock Nation into a state of excited which had never been seen before. Minutes afterwards, he stated to several media outlets that he was done and 100% Gamecock. Well, we know how that one ended up. Anything is possible. However, I'll believe it when I see it.

In terms of Kornblut, he's not just pro-Carolina. He writes on every South Carolina high schooler who signs or commits to a football scholarship at any school at any level. He also writes just as many reports for Clemson, Coastal Carolina, Newberry, PC, The Citadel, etc. as he does for USC. His body of work represents the state of South Carolina, not the state's flagship university.

Agreed...these are 17 year old kids, so it's not over until the ink is dry. But I do think it's a little "desperate" to say that Dunlap is not happy with his Florida Committment 4 hours after he committed...based on...what? Kornblut article didn't come out until today. Anyway, I'm sure SR will try and sway JR, but he was a Gator more than 15 minutes before his announcement...he was a Gator as soon as Meyer offered him a scholly. I don't agree with Kornblut's article though...if Dunlap does in fact stay with his committment...many Gamecocks fans will be disappointed...why not just wait until NSD.

[1986gamecock]

Wanted to say hi to everyone and introduce myself: first time poster but been reading this and other recruiting forums for several months. grew up in Beaufort, 1986 USC grad and gamecock devotee since John Roche, et al were kicking tail back in the day. Wanted to especially thank Williams Brice for all the insights this recruiting season. Being a SC fan displaced in Texas I have to rely on sources like y'all. So . . . thanks so much and look forward to reading all your posts in the future.

[uscrules]

Wow, Texas. You are displaced. Welcome to the site. Always nice to have another Gamecock to add to our fold.

[roosterbooster]

I don't think we've seen the true possibilities of the Meyer offense....USCe to the SEC Championship? Tebow, Harvin, Caldwell, Fayson may not agree with that...;)

Yes but Moss isn't there anymore and Carlos just wouldn't want to disappoint his daddy that bad. If Spurrier keeps going in the direction he is this is going to turn into one heck of a rivalry. You have to admit, it has been a lot more fun the last few years.

[Gamecocks4Life]

he was a Gator as soon as Meyer offered him a scholly.
no he wasnt. He was a Silent Commit to USC until his visit to Florida.

[pc72687]

I don't think it is over just because of the dad, but I doubt he switches his commitment.

[USAFGAMECOCK]

I say he fools everyone and signs with Newberry. :laugh:

[JDStud6]

I say we not worry about it. Whatever happens is going to happen. We're all a little upset he didn't sign with us. The night I saw that on the news I almost drove to his house to beat him up. Then I realized I have no idea where he lives, and he would kill me. :)

I just hope we can stick with all the great commits we currently have now! It's going to be an exciting season, I cant wait to see them play!

JD

[The Spur]

Agreed...these are 17 year old kids, so it's not over until the ink is dry. But I do think it's a little "desperate" to say that Dunlap is not happy with his Florida Committment 4 hours after he committed...based on...what? Kornblut article didn't come out until today. Anyway, I'm sure SR will try and sway JR, but he was a Gator more than 15 minutes before his announcement...he was a Gator as soon as Meyer offered him a scholly. I don't agree with Kornblut's article though...if Dunlap does in fact stay with his committment...many Gamecocks fans will be disappointed...why not just wait until NSD.

The facts are, he was committed to SC and now he is committed to Florida. We can argue this all day long and it will not change the outcome. Dunlap has made his decision but that decision is not binding until he signs his LOI. You say that many Gamecock fans will be disappointed if he stays with his committment and that is true. Many SC fans are disappointed now so that will not change. How will Florida fans feel is his pop wins him over though? The fact is, none of us know. One thing is for sure, we'll all know after Feb. 7.

[JerryBeeds]

Here's a little news note on Bynes from ESPN.com. He's got some nice things to say about USC:

ESPN.com - NCF - Scouts Inc. Recruiting Briefing Room (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recruiting/briefingroom?playerId=36130)

[bmwparts]

The facts are, he was committed to SC and now he is committed to Florida. We can argue this all day long and it will not change the outcome. Dunlap has made his decision but that decision is not binding until he signs his LOI. You say that many Gamecock fans will be disappointed if he stays with his committment and that is true. Many SC fans are disappointed now so that will not change. How will Florida fans feel is his pop wins him over though? The fact is, none of us know. One thing is for sure, we'll all know after Feb. 7.

nicely said!!!!!!

[GatorHunter]

no he wasnt. He was a Silent Commit to USC until his visit to Florida.

He was offered when he visited UF...that's when he became a Gator...understand?

[GatorHunter]

The facts are, he was committed to SC and now he is committed to Florida. We can argue this all day long and it will not change the outcome. Dunlap has made his decision but that decision is not binding until he signs his LOI. You say that many Gamecock fans will be disappointed if he stays with his committment and that is true. Many SC fans are disappointed now so that will not change. How will Florida fans feel is his pop wins him over though? The fact is, none of us know. One thing is for sure, we'll all know after Feb. 7.

No one has said he wasn't a "silent" commit to USCe...I believe that he was. But if USCe was truly where his heart was, he would've went public and not visited UF...he didn't and "publicly" committed to the Gators. I think his dad is doing a little "damage control"...that's it.

[JerryBeeds]

He was a Gator all along. He always wanted to go to UF but wasn't ever officially offered because were grades were awful. His academics are looking alot better so UF offered last weekend and he committed on the spot. (At least that's what I heard). FWIW.

[Gamecocks4Life]

He was offered when he visited UF...that's when he became a Gator...understand?
Oh.... I didnt know that. Thanks for the info.

[OmahaBound]

Random factoid: LB Melvin Ingram got his 4th star today on Rivals. Melvin Ingram - Football Recruiting (http://southcarolina.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=1&pr_key=49258)

[GatorHunter]

He was a Gator all along. He always wanted to go to UF but wasn't ever officially offered because were grades were awful. His academics are looking alot better so UF offered last weekend and he committed on the spot. (At least that's what I heard). FWIW.

Exactly!!!!

Thanks for saying in 3 sentences what I apparently couldn't say in several paragraphs!!!:blink:

[pc72687]

Okay, so now I understand, he only commited to us because he didn't have the UF offer.

[The Spur]

No one has said he wasn't a "silent" commit to USCe...I believe that he was. But if USCe was truly where his heart was, he would've went public and not visited UF...he didn't and "publicly" committed to the Gators. I think his dad is doing a little "damage control"...that's it.

I'm not trying to make the argument that he wants to be at SC. I believe he wants to be a Gator or he wouldn't have committed to them. I think there is also a part of him that wants to be a Gamecock or he would have never been a silent commit there. I think he believes he will get playing time at both schools and will probably win at both schools. Let's face it, Florida has more to offer at this point. They have been a top program for years whereas SC is just an up and coming program. Florida just won the NC in tremendous fashion. That has a big influence on recruits, I don't care who they are.

I do believe there is a very small chance that Dunlap could change his mind. Do I think he will? No. Until he signs his LOI there is always the possibility. That is all I am saying and I am not in any way predicting he will change his mind.

[The Spur]

Florida has a tremendous recruiting class coming in. SC has probably it's best class in history coming in this season. Meyer and Spurrier are proven winners. This is getting fun! This has already turned into a good rivalry and it will only get better. Spurrier is really beginning to put his stamp on the SC program and it will not be long before they are contenders for the SEC title. Many Gamecock fans are saying this season (2007) but I believe too many things have to improve before they can realistically win it this year. On the flip side, after SC started Spurrier's first season with the thug spring cleaning session, I never dreamed they would have enough talent to win 7 games but they did. I'll not put anything past a Spurrier coached team so I do give them a chance, albeit a small one.

[WayzUp]

Hope the 'best playing opportunity' angle wasn't the only thing Dunlap bit on while in Gainesville. UF just picked up yet another decommit commitment yesterday in the form of Justin Trattou, a 5-star DE who's ranked one spot ahead of Dunlap on Rivals from what I understand. I do know Trattou had been a solid verbal to ND since JUNE so they're down yet another D player. Gary Gray better be in the best shape of his life cuz he's gonna be on an island with no help for the next four years.

James Wilson, John Brantley, Carlos Dunlap, Justin Trattou....all 5-star players, all committed somewhere else and all have switched to Florida recently.

Disclaimer first but I have a question: I mean no disrespect nor am I peein' sour grape juice because of the Dunlap saga but seriously, does winning a national championship make that much of a difference every year? I know Texas had a lights-out class when Vince Young led them to their NC but I think their class was pretty much already filled out...did they get a lot of decommit committments after they won it? And Southern Cal seems to have their class all filled out by June (well, minus the aforementioned James Wilson this year! LOL) so I can't recall them playing fox in the henhouse to other programs' committed players like UF has done this year back when they were winning (tainted) NC's. Is this normal or is UF employing one of those circus hypnotists to do their thang before 'Ol Urb gets up to speak? I've just never seen one game have so much of an impact in the same year....doesn't it usually pay off the recruiting season after the championship? Or am I wayzoff?

[The Spur]

Hope the 'best playing opportunity' angle wasn't the only thing Dunlap bit on while in Gainesville. UF just picked up yet another decommit commitment yesterday in the form of Justin Trattou, a 5-star DE who's ranked one spot ahead of Dunlap on Rivals from what I understand. I do know Trattou had been a solid verbal to ND since JUNE so they're down yet another D player. Gary Gray better be in the best shape of his life cuz he's gonna be on an island with no help for the next four years.

James Wilson, John Brantley, Carlos Dunlap, Justin Trattou....all 5-star players, all committed somewhere else and all have switched to Florida recently.

Disclaimer first but I have a question: I mean no disrespect nor am I peein' sour grape juice because of the Dunlap saga but seriously, does winning a national championship make that much of a difference every year? I know Texas had a lights-out class when Vince Young led them to their NC but I think their class was pretty much already filled out...did they get a lot of decommit committments after they won it? And Southern Cal seems to have their class all filled out by June (well, minus the aforementioned James Wilson this year! LOL) so I can't recall them playing fox in the henhouse to other programs' committed players like UF has done this year back when they were winning (tainted) NC's. Is this normal or is UF employing one of those circus hypnotists to do their thang before 'Ol Urb gets up to speak? I've just never seen one game have so much of an impact in the same year....doesn't it usually pay off the recruiting season after the championship? Or am I wayzoff?

Not sure if the NC makes that big of a difference or not but it's got to help considerably. Anyway, looks to me like Florida is continuing to contact these players even after they have committed to other schools. There is nothing against that practice but some think it is unethical. I see both sides of the argument but I don't have an opinion either way.
If that is what is happening then I think Spurrier should rethink his position and turn up the heat on Dunlap. With that many 5 stars coming in at DE then there is no way Dunlap, or anyone else for that matter, can make the argument that his (Dunlap's) best chances to play early are at Florida. I think anyone looking at this objectively would have to say that his best chance to play early would be in Columbia. Maybe I'm just looking at things through garnet colored glasses though.

[lacene]

Hope the 'best playing opportunity' angle wasn't the only thing Dunlap bit on while in Gainesville. UF just picked up yet another decommit commitment yesterday in the form of Justin Trattou, a 5-star DE who's ranked one spot ahead of Dunlap on Rivals from what I understand. I do know Trattou had been a solid verbal to ND since JUNE so they're down yet another D player. Gary Gray better be in the best shape of his life cuz he's gonn