USC Recruiting News [Archive] - Page 43

Wynnco.com

01-17-2008, 09:23 AM

January 16, 2008
USC Reconnects With Sanders
By Phil Kornblut

OL Zebrie Sanders (6-6 273) of Clayton, OH remains on the market after Florida and Georgia, his first two choices, filled up at his position and could not accept a commitment. USC is one of the schools to recently contact Sanders in hope of landing his final official visit. "South Carolina, Florida STate and West Virginia have been in touch," Sanders's father said. "Coach Hunt (USC) called shortly after the news broke after the situation with Florida and Georgia. They would like to get back in to it because they still have a need for a tackle." Mr. Sanders said as of this morning his son indicated he was leaning towards Florida State for his final official visit, but USC was a possibility. "There's always been that fondness in his heart for Columbia," Mr. Sanders said. The Sanders lived in the Lower Richland area of Columbia before moving to Ohio. Mr. Sanders said the dissapointment of the Florida, Georgia situations has slowed the recruiting process. "We're taking a step back and trying to catch or breath," Mr. Sanders said. "He's kind of turned off by the recruiting process. I'm kind of turned off by the recruiting process." Sanders also visited LSU and Louisville and those two are still factors. A recruiter from Louisville is due in tomorrow.

Wynnco.com

01-17-2008, 09:25 AM

January 16, 2008
Quinn Still Not Sure About USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

LB Robert Quinn (6-6 255) of Fort Dorchester met with USC defensive coaches Brian VanGorder, Brad Lawing and Shane Beamer at his school Wednesday. The Gamecock coaches had hoped to nail him down for an official visit but Quinn remains non-committal. "I'm still not sure about visiting," Quinn said. "We'll see what goes on. We talked about the 25th but I have the SAT that Saturday. A trip is possible but not definite." Quinn also met today with North Carolina coach Butch Davis. He will visit North Carolina this weekend. He has visited Alabama and Auburn. Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville is supposed to visit Thursday but the weather may postpone that visit until next week. Quinn said he has no favorite.

Wynnco.com

01-17-2008, 09:26 AM

January 16, 2008
Gamecocks Meet With Taylor
By Phil Kornblut

USC recruiters Shane Beamer, Brad Lawing and Brian VanGorder spent much of Wednesday along the coast of South Carolina. The three met in the afternoon with Fort Dorchester LB Robert Quinn, then made the drive up the coast to Beaufort to meet with DE Devin Taylor (6-6 220). That meeting went well for the Gamecocks who remain the favorite to land Taylor. Taylor will visit Duke this weekend and NC State on the MLK Holiday. He has visited USC and Wake Forest. Wake Forest head coach Jim Grobe also met with Taylor today as did his recruiter from NC State.

Wynnco.com

01-17-2008, 09:27 AM

January 16, 2008
Reddick Jr. Finished With Visits
By Phil Kornblut

LB Kevin Reddick Jr. (6-2 215) of New Bern, NC said Wednesday night he is firm with his commitment to North Carolina and will not take any more visits. Reddick was scheduled to visit USC this weekend. He met at his school Wednesday with USC recruiters Brad Lawing, Brian VanGorder and Shane Beamer. But after discussing things with his father Wednesday night, Reddick Jr. decided to shut down his recruiting and stick with his UNC commitment.

Wynnco.com

01-17-2008, 03:23 PM

January 17, 2008
USC Coaches Deciding On Lucas
By Phil Kornblut

USC defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder and assistant Shane Beamer are at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School today to meet with Shrine Bowl LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220). The Gamecock coaches met with Lucas for about an hour and a half this morning and were watching film on him this afternoon. They will stay around at the school this afternoon to watch Lucas practice basketball. "They are still in the evaluation stage," said OW coach Reggie Kennedy. "They are looking at more film as we speak. If they offer, he will visit January 25th. But it's going real well. By tomorrow we'll know." NC State head coach Tom O'Brien also is visiting with Lucas today, and he was offered by Wake Forest this morning. Lucas visited NC State last weekend and will visit North Carolina this weekend. He has dropped Michigan State and replaced them with a trip to Maryland January 25th, unless he changes that for USC. He also might take a mid week visit to Wake Forest.

Williams-Brice

01-17-2008, 04:55 PM

I learned today that FSU has indeed backed off of Zebrie Sanders. I'm anxious to see where this goes. I'm pretty sure he has one visit left. The other school he visited was Louisville.

FLgamecockJAX

01-17-2008, 05:17 PM

Yes, Zebrie has 1 visit left. He has visited LSU, Louisville, UGA and UF. This will be interesting, especially since he grew up around COLA and speaks highly of COLA. UCLA is also in the picture. Prayerfully, we can get that last visit and have an opportunity for him.

I would love to get Sanders, Mattes and Cooper to close out our OL recruiting for 2008.

Williams-Brice

01-17-2008, 08:43 PM

USC finally offered LB Sterling Lucas.

lacene

01-17-2008, 09:20 PM

January 17, 2008
Mattes Meets With USC Recruiter
By Phil Kornblut

On the eve of his official visit to USC, OL R.J. Mattes (6-7 287) of Concord, NC met Thursday with USC offensive line coach John Hunt. "It was a good visit," Mattes said. "He sat down and went over what we'll do on the official visit." Mattes has visited Clemson, North Carolina, Virginia and NC State. His criteria for all the visits has been the same. "I'm just looking to have a good time with the players and swee what school is best for me," he said. "I'm also looking at the scheme and what they do with the linemen and the type of offense they run. They have all put on greast official visits." Mattes said his dad will join him on the visit. Both parents went with him on the other visits but his mother has to be at a function with his sister this weekend and won't be able to make it. North Carolina coach Butch Davis will have his in home tonight with Mattes. Virginia coach Al Groh and NC State coach Tom O'Brien were in Wednesday. Tommy Bowden visited Tuesday. USC head coach Steve Spurrier will get the final in home visit early next week before Mattes announces. He said he simply will notify all the coaches of his decision and then the media. He will not have a formal news conference. He does not have an order with the schools at this time.

JerryBeeds

01-17-2008, 10:13 PM

Who's visiting this weekend? Any have the full list?

Williams-Brice

01-17-2008, 10:48 PM

Who's visiting this weekend? Any have the full list?

Jaron Brown
TJ Lawrence
Tommy Streeter
Jarrett Burns
TJ Johnson
Mike Triglia
RJ Mattes
Jonathan Cooper

FLgamecockJAX

01-17-2008, 11:00 PM

According to Kornblut, Z. Sanders' visit to FSU is back on.

January 17, 2008
Sanders Making FSU Trip This Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

OL Zebrie Sanders (6-6 273) of Clayton, OH will make his official visit to Florida State this weekend his father said Thursday night. This would be his fifth official visit. His others were to Georgia, Florida, LSU and Louisville. Florida and Georgia are no longer involved. USC remains interested. Offensive line coach John Hunt talked with Sanders earlier in the week and left a messasge later in the week affirming his interest. Mr. Sanders said LSU, Louisville and West Virginia also continue to show strong interest with West Virginia making a strong push of late.

Williams-Brice

01-18-2008, 06:47 AM

Why anyone would want to go to FSU after all of the crap that has gone on there recently is outside of my realm of reasoning.

WayzUp

01-18-2008, 08:22 AM

Maybe I'm underestimating his recruiting ability but why do we have Hunt working the top two guys at arguably our biggest area of need (OL - Sanders/Mattes)?? Is he working Cooper, as well?

FLgamecockJAX

01-18-2008, 09:14 AM

Why anyone would want to go to FSU after all of the crap that has gone on there recently is outside of my realm of reasoning.

I wouldn't want to play somewhere having to guess when my coach will be gone. I know coaching changes is part of the game, but I keep wondering to myself, "When is enough, enough for Bobby?" "How long can he continue?"

Then, how good will Jimbo be as a head coach? We may think he turns out to be a good one, but we don't know that yet. Stranger things have happened! Oh well! It's not my decision to make.

Wynnco.com

01-18-2008, 11:38 AM

January 17, 2008
Gamecocks Don't Get To Harbin This Week
By Phil Kornblut

USC recruiter Ron Cooper had planned to visit DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL this week but he never made it down to see him. Harbin's mother said Cooper called and said he and head coach Steve Spurrier would be down next week for their in home visit. Harbin will make his official visit to North Carolina this weekend, and will visit USC over the MLK holiday. He will visit LSU on the 25th and Florida February 1st. Harbin has visited Alabama. Coaches from Alabama and North Carolina have been in this week.

Wynnco.com

01-18-2008, 11:39 AM

January 17, 2008
Lucas Lands USC Offer
By Phil Kornblut

USC defensive coaches Brian VanGorder, Shane Beamer and Brad Lawing spent most of Thursday at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School visiting with LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) and before they left his home tonight, they left behind an official offer. "They left my house about nine and they offered before they left," Lucas said. "They told me they want me to come to South Carolina and play middle linebacker. I am just beel blessed to have all of these offers." Lucas also has offers from NC State, North Carolina, Maryland, Michigan State and Wake Forest. Today's meeting gave Lucas the chance to meet VanGorder, the Gamecocks' new defensive coordinator. "He seems like a real straight forward guy," Lucas said. "He has a lot of knowledge of the game. He said every linebacker he coached at Georgia is in the NFL. He has NFL experience. He knows a lot about the game." Lucas has visited NC State and will visit North Carolina this weekend along with his parents and siblings. He's scheduled to visit Maryland January 25th. USC wants him to visit that weekend as well but he's not ready to break the date with the Terrapins. Lucas said he does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

01-18-2008, 11:41 AM

January 17, 2008
Visit Weekend #2 Is Here
By Phil Kornblut

USC has its most active recruiting weekend of the campaign scheduled for this weekend and reaching into the MLK Holiday. Eleven prospects are scheduled to visit the Gamecocks from Friday thru Tuesday. Following are the scheduled weekend official visits for the Gamecocks:

DB Jarrett Burns of Huntsville, AL (committed)
OL T.J. Johnson of Aynor (committed)
OL Jonathan Cooper of Wilmington, NC
OL R.J. Mattes of Concord, NC
RB Kenny Miles of Snellville, GA (committed)
TE Mike Triglia of Jacksonville, FL
WR Jaron Brown of Cheraw
WR Tommy Streeter of Miami
WR T.J. Lawrence of Lakeland, FL

Scheduled to visit the Gamecocks over the MLK Holiday are DE Jomarcus Savage of Huntsville, AL and DE Glenn Harbin of Mobile, AL.

Williams-Brice

01-18-2008, 03:51 PM

Maybe I'm underestimating his recruiting ability but why do we have Hunt working the top two guys at arguably our biggest area of need (OL - Sanders/Mattes)?? Is he working Cooper, as well?

You are vastly underestimating his recruiting ability. Plus, recruiters are assigned to players based on their position and area. Cooper and Mattes are in Hunt's area, and Hunt would be the position coach for all three players.

Williams-Brice

01-18-2008, 03:53 PM

I wouldn't want to play somewhere having to guess when my coach will be gone. I know coaching changes is part of the game, but I keep wondering to myself, "When is enough, enough for Bobby?" "How long can he continue?"

Then, how good will Jimbo be as a head coach? We may think he turns out to be a good one, but we don't know that yet. Stranger things have happened! Oh well! It's not my decision to make.

Jimbo won't last long at FSU. He's ridiculously overrated. His LSU teams rarely lit up the scoreboard. Currently, FSU has Top 3 talent in the ACC. Why aren't they scoring on those weak defenses they play each week? He's a joke, if you ask me.

Wynnco.com

01-19-2008, 12:00 PM

January 18, 2008
Savage Won't Make USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

DE Jomarcus Savage (6-3 262) of Huntsville, AL has canceled his scheduled visit to USC for the MLK Holiday. It is not known if he will reschedule the visit with the Gamecocks. Savage is visiting Tennessee this weekend. He also has visited Auburn.

raptorcox

01-19-2008, 12:06 PM

Don't be surprised if Savage soon commits to Tennessee.

SCFan34

01-19-2008, 02:45 PM

any scoop on how things are going this weekend!!!!!

FLgamecockJAX

01-19-2008, 03:42 PM

Don't be surprised if Savage soon commits to Tennessee.

I won't be surprised, but I hope the change of plans from Savage is also an indicator of good news on Harbin.

Williams-Brice

01-19-2008, 11:10 PM

We're going to land Streeter and Lawrence. They won't commit tomorrow, but they'll give SOS a good indication of where they are leaning tomorrow morning during their one-on-one interviews. They're going to be Gamecocks.

Jaron Brown has indicated a few times that he can see himself as being a Gamecock. I'm still up in the air about him. Clemson's coaching staff has proven they can put a spin in their favor in any situation when it comes to recruiting.

I'm hearing great things about Jonathan Cooper. Some people have indicated that he may be ready to announce his choice as early as Tuesday. He and his dad have been completely blown away. I'd say that right now, worst case scenario for USC right now is that it's 50/50 between them and UNC.

Mattes is having a great visit, but few believe USC can turn him. I say it'll be either Clemson or UVA.

scfan5338

01-20-2008, 10:16 AM

If we can land a couple more OL's on top of the two WR's and a LB, this class has been a success.

raptorcox

01-20-2008, 01:05 PM

Triglia = Gamecock

That makes 20.......

He is rated by Rivals as a 2 Star Tight End. He is 6'4", 238 lbs., from Jax, Florida.

BamaFanNKy

01-20-2008, 07:20 PM

You guys may lose a WR commit.

SCFan34

01-20-2008, 07:27 PM

May I ask who?

FLgamecockJAX

01-20-2008, 07:36 PM

You guys may lose a WR commit.

You must be referring to D. L. Moore. SOS was up to see him recently. Care to share more info with us? Or just bait us and leave us hanging?

BamaFanNKy

01-20-2008, 07:46 PM

I know he is getting the hard sell from Colorado. I was honored to meet SOS that day.

CU is reminding him of all the recievers you signed last year and questioning him if he really thinks he'll get any PT there. Plus the TE on his team who is commited to UofL may switch and go to CU.

BamaFanNKy

01-20-2008, 07:46 PM

I still think he ends up in USCe.

FLgamecockJAX

01-20-2008, 08:05 PM

I'm sure SOS has reminded him of the production of all those WR's from last year and also the plans for some of those WR's moving to DB. Bottom line IS: SOS will play the best. With DL's skills to come in and earn playing time. I'm sure SOS has also explained his need of WR's to run his 4 and 5 WR sets. Even with all the WR's signed last year, we didn't have enough this year to run 4/5 WR sets.

Just look back to the UF days. He had lots of WR's and plenty of balls to pass around. I don't remember great WR's not getting enough passes during those days.

If and only if DL is having second thoughts, has he shared this with SOS that you are aware of? Also, DL seems to be a Sidney Rice type player and it was very obvious this year that we missed Sidney. I hope DL will come and add that missed skill!

BamaFanNKy

01-20-2008, 08:12 PM

As stated I think D.L. is USCe bound. What I would worry about is Moore's work ethic and possiable family dynamics.

raptorcox

01-20-2008, 10:05 PM

As stated I think D.L. is USCe bound. What I would worry about is Moore's work ethic and possiable family dynamics.

So your posts went from......

USC might be losing a WR.......

TO

I think he will still end up at "USCe".......

TO

I would worry about his work ethics if I was y'all.....

Let's see here. If we are going to lose him, then we could care less about his work ethic. But no, wait, you contradicted yourself and said you felt we would get him. No wait, now we need to be concerned with his work ethic.

Here are a few FACTS:

1- No player is safe until they sign their letter of intent. He may go elsewhere, just as anyone else that we have committed (or Bama for tha matter) might.

2- Players work ethic is one of the things coaches have to deal with continuously. It's part of their jobs to either make him work or put his butt on the bench and even take his schollie if it gets to that point.

Will this kid come to USC and be all that and a bag of chips? No telling. But I do know we have the right coaches leading our program that if he does come to USC they will make him work or get rid of him. In the end, that is what matters.

Williams-Brice

01-21-2008, 07:24 AM

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:12 AM

January 20, 2008
Triglia Waiting To Meet With Spurrier
By Phil Kornblut

TE Mike Triglia (6-4 234) of Jacksonville, FL is wrapping up his official visit with USC today. Later this morning he'll meet with Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier for his exit interview and will learn if he has an offer from the Gamecocks. "We'll see what happens and go from there," Triglia said. Triglia had said previously he likely would commit to the Gamecocks if offered.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:12 AM

January 20, 2008
Lawrence Makes Official Visit To USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR T.J. Lawrence (6-2 190) of Lakeland, FL made his official visit to USC over the weekend. "It went good," he said. "I liked going out with the players, I had fun with them, guys like Shaq Wilson and Emmanuel Cook. I liked the dorm rooms, and I liked the stadium. They told me about how it's going to be bigger." Lawrence said he talked a lot with Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier while on his visit. He has not made a commitment and will take his visit to Michigan this coming weekend. He also has visited Virginia Tech and Florida and said he does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:14 AM

January 20, 2008
Quinn Makes Official Visit To UNC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Robert Quinn (6-6 255) of Fort Dorchester made his official visit to North Carolina over the weekend along with his parents and his sister. "I had a great time up there," Quinn said. "I was glad to see the coaches again. I met some of the players. I'm taking these visits to get a feel for the schools I want to go to. I talked with coach Davis about his days with the Cowboys and his days coaching the defensive line. We talked about the basics. I'm just going to chill back for a while and try to forget about all this recruiting stuff for the time being." Quinn also has visited Alabama and Auburn and along with North Carolina, those are his top three with no favorite. USC has been pushing for a visit but with no success so far. "I'm still saying probably not but I'm not sure," Quinn said. This week Quinn said he's expecting coaches from North Carolina and Alabama to be in to see him. He does not have a timetable for a decision.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:14 AM

January 20, 2008
Burns Confirms Solid USC Commitment
By Phil Kornblut

DB Jarrett Burns (6-3 186) of Huntsville, AL committed to USC in November. Tennessee has been showing increasing interest and is supposed to get back to him this coming week about an offer and a visit. But Burns made his official visit to USC over the weekend and said he's totally committed to the Gamecocks. "My visit was over the top," he said. "Everything was great. It's really just unexplainable. They haven't won an SEC Championship before and I really see that coming in the near future. Sometime while I'm here, I see that happening. Another thing is the family type atmosphere. They are real close. The players all come together. They are very well rounded people. I was just very comfortable." Huntsville native Darian Stewart served as Burns's host.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:15 AM

January 20, 2008
Harbin Sees UNC, Heads To USC
By Phil Kornblut

DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL completed his official visit to North Carolina Sunday and headed to USC where he will be on an official visit Sunday afternoon thru Monday night. "It went good," Harbin said of his time in Chapel Hill. "I liked the campus and the academic program they've got set up for the players." Harbin also has visited Alabama and he has the Crimson Tide and the Tar Heels at the top of his list going into the USC visit. His mother is accompanying him on the trip. Harbin is scheduled to visit LSU and Florida the next two weekends but he's not sure he'll make those trips.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:16 AM

January 20, 2008
Mattes Makes His Decision
By Phil Kornblut

OL R.J. Mattes (6-7 287) of Concord, NC committed Sunday to NC State according to internet reports. Mattes made his decision not long after completing his official visit to USC. He also considered Clemson, North Carolina and Virginia.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:17 AM

January 20, 2008
Lucas Makes Official Visit To UNC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) of Orangeburg-Wilkinson made his official visit to North Carolina over the weekend. "It was a real good experience," Lucas said. "I liked everything about it. They have a good academic program and I liked the atmosphere of the community. I had a conversation with coach Davis before I left. He was telling me they need linebackers and I'm one they want. He feels I can help their program because they are going in the right direction and are going to be successful." Lucas also has visited NC State. He will visit Maryland this coming weekend and plans to visit USC February 1st. He's expecting coaches from Maryland, North Carolina and Wake Forest to visit him this week.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:18 AM

January 20, 2008
Streeter Visits USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR Tommy Streeter (6-5 200) of Miami made his official visit to USC over the weekend. He said the visit went well and it gave him the chance to spend time with his sister who lives in Columbia. He also took a closer look at the Gamecocks' offensive scheme. "I just liked the whole offensive scheme," he said. "Coach Spurrier Jr. showed me the entire thing. I like him because he's so energetic. They are sitting pretty high. I had a very good visit." Streeter will visit South Florida this coming weekend andhe might visit Miami February 1st. Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier will make his in home visit Thursday.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:19 AM

January 20, 2008
Florida Lineman Gaining Interest
By Phil Kornblut

OL Rhonne Sanderson (6-4 280) of Tampa is getting late, major interest, including some from USC. Sanderson is the brother of former USC lineman Watts Sanderson. He made an official visit to Michigan State over the weekend and has an offer from the Spartans. He will visit Florida State this coming weekend and was told by offensive line coach Rick Trickett he has a good shot at an offer from them. USC graduate assistant coach Cedric Williams contacted Sanderson recently and he's waiting to hear back. "They (USC) just got my film and are evaluating it," Sanderson said. Sanderson also has taken official visits to Western Kentucky and Ball State. He also has offers from Florida Atlantic, Florida International and Toledo.

Wynnco.com

01-21-2008, 09:20 AM

January 20, 2008
Triglia Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut

TE Mike Triglia (6-4 234) of Jacksonville, FL committed to USC Sunday at the conclusion of his official visit. Triglia did not receive his official offer from Steve Spurrier until their meeting at the end of his visit Sunday morning. "It's kind of a relief to know where I'm going," Triglia said. "Especially since it's South Carolina and how good a program it is and how good a coach coach Spurrier is. The tight end, (Nick) Prochak, got hurt a couple of nights ago. He broke his femur. So, they only have two tight ends. I don't know what they're going to do with me. They want to put some weight on me, get me up to about 245 pounds. The first thing that caught my attention is they've never had an SEC Championship. Hopefully we can bring the first one to South Carolina. That would be an awesome thing." Triglia also drew interest from Georgia Tech, Illinois, Memphis and Southern Miss. He caught 18 passes for 300 yards and 4 touchdowns this season. He becomes the 20th commitment for the Gamecocks.

FLgamecockJAX

01-21-2008, 10:41 AM

I'm hearing USC leads for Streeter, Lawrence, and Cooper coming out of the visit.

Jaron Brown is 50/50.

RJ Mattes committed to NC State.

Jomarcus Savage did not commit to Tennessee. He will visit Carolina next weekend.

W-B,

Are any of these three's decisions based off of each other (that you know)? Some are saying we won't get all three. SOS is recruiting the 3 of them really hard, so he must want all three. They are different type of WR's. I'm wondering how they bonded with each other. You listed Brown as 50/50. Is he still concerned with playing time?

Thanks!

FLgamecockJAX

01-21-2008, 06:09 PM

It's being reported that Harbin LOVED his visit and now has us #1. In yesterday's PK report, he stated he may not take his LSU and UF trips. Hopefully, Mr. Harbin will end his recruiting.

Maybe W-B will have some inside scoop for us on his next posts!

raptorcox

01-21-2008, 06:13 PM

raptorcox

01-21-2008, 06:41 PM

January 21, 2008

Harbin Makes His Visit To USC

By Phil Kornblut

DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL capped a long weekend of visits with his quick stopover at USC. Harbin arrived in Columbia Sunday afternoon after visiting North Carolina. Twenty-four hours later he and his mother were on their way back to Mobile. But not before Harbin got a good feel for the Gamecock program. "The visit went good," he said. "We spent most of our time on campus. The campus is nice." And the Gamecocks helped themselves with Harbin and remain one of his favorites. “They helped themselves because I had a chance to spend a lot of time with (Gamecock head coach) Steve Spurrier,” he said. “He’s a really cool guy and very easy to talk to. We talked a lot about his past football teams that he coached and how he wants the program to win like his former teams.” Spurrier and assistant coach Ron Cooper are expected to make their in home visit with Harbin this week, possibly Tuesday. Harbin has trips scheduled with LSU and Florida the next two weekends but he said he's not sure he'll make those trips. He has visited Alabama.

FLgamecockJAX

01-21-2008, 07:06 PM

I wonder how Momma fills after the visit. I hope we are her leader also. I hope she took real well to SOS and Coach Cooper!

pc72687

01-21-2008, 08:35 PM

Well it seems the weekend went well.

SCFan34

01-21-2008, 09:31 PM

Are we still light on Defensive line? If so, Why are we not looking at DT TIM MCGEE 4star

BamaFanNKy

01-21-2008, 09:53 PM

So your posts went from......

USC might be losing a WR.......

TO

I think he will still end up at "USCe".......

TO

I would worry about his work ethics if I was y'all.....

Let's see here. If we are going to lose him, then we could care less about his work ethic. But no, wait, you contradicted yourself and said you felt we would get him. No wait, now we need to be concerned with his work ethic.

Here are a few FACTS:

1- No player is safe until they sign their letter of intent. He may go elsewhere, just as anyone else that we have committed (or Bama for tha matter) might.

2- Players work ethic is one of the things coaches have to deal with continuously. It's part of their jobs to either make him work or put his butt on the bench and even take his schollie if it gets to that point.

Will this kid come to USC and be all that and a bag of chips? No telling. But I do know we have the right coaches leading our program that if he does come to USC they will make him work or get rid of him. In the end, that is what matters.
I said he might leave but I think he'll stay. That is basically saying what goes on in an 18 year olds head :) I just thought you guys would want to know what is going on with him.

I am saying he needs major supervision when he gets there. Private message me and I'll give you the low down. It's not a D.L. is a bad kid thing. There are outside circumstances that the coaches at USCe are very aware of.

WayzUp

01-22-2008, 05:55 AM

Are we still light on Defensive line? If so, Why are we not looking at DT TIM MCGEE 4star

Tim McGee is a 3-star JUCO committed to play for perennial Big Teneleven doormat Minnesota. STACEY McGee is a 4-star DT but he's committed to Okiehoma.

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 09:42 AM

January 21, 2008
Savage Plans To Make USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

DE Jomarcus Savage (6-2 260) of Huntsville, AL canceled his scheduled visit to USC for the MLK Holiday but plans to visit this coming weekend. Savage visited Tennessee over the weekend and told VolQuest.com that he will make his visit to USC this weekend. He also has visited Auburn and has the Vols and Tigers at the top of his list right now. Steve Spurrier and Phillip Fulmer have had their in home visits. Tommy Tubervile is due in this week.

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 09:44 AM

January 21, 2008
Tennessee Visit Still Possible For Burns
By Phil Kornblut

USC commitment DB Jarrett Burns (6-3 186) of Huntsville, AL did not hear from Tennessee Monday, but he got a message from his close friend Jomarcus Savage that he could be hearing from the Vols soon. "I talked to Jomarcus today and coach Fulmer and coach Chavis will watch my tape tomorrow (Tuesday) and I'll know later in the week (about an offer and a visit)," Burns said. "To be honest with you, I'll probably go on the visit but I won't commit. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity just to go and have fun. But I'm solid (with USC). I'm done." Burns made his official visit to USC last weekend while Savage visited Tennessee. Burns said Savage still plans to make his official visit to USC this coming weekend. "He was supposed to come in Sunday but his mom had something to do and he couldn't make it," Burns said. Burns is expecting a visit from USC recruiter Ron Cooper later this week.

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 09:45 AM

January 21, 2008
Cooper May Be Ready To Announce
By Phil Kornblut

According to a source familiar with his recruiting, OL Jonathan Cooper (6-3 305) of Wilmington may announce his college decision Tuesday. Cooper has visited USC and UNC and those two have been at the top of his list thru the recruiting season. Cooper has not been available for comment since visiting USC this past weekend adding to the belief he's preparing to make his decision. Cooper has visits planned the next two weekends with Wake Forest and NC State.

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 09:46 AM

January 21, 2008
Streeter Decision Not Far Off
By Phil Kornblut

WR Tommy Streeter (6-5 200) said Monday night he might have his decision before the end of the month. Streeter met with his recruiter from Oregon Monday night. This past weekend he made his official visit to USC. "It went nice, lovely, I was able to learn a lot," he said. "I really like how much help they give you in getting your degree. Coach Spurrier Jr. showed me a lot of film about what they like to do with their receivers." Gamecock head coach Steve Spurrier will make his in home visit Thursday. Streeter has visited USC, Boston College and Oregon. He will visit South Florida this weekend. He's scheduled to visit Miami February 1st but he's not sure he'll make it. Streeter said he's still considering all five schools and doesn't have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 09:59 AM

January 21, 2008
USC Coaches Visit Lucas
By Phil Kornblut

USC head coach Steve Spurrier, defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder and assistant Steve Spurrier Jr. met with Orangeburg-Wilkinson LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) and his father Monday afternoon at their home. "I got to sit down with coach Spurrier and he told me he wanted me to be a Gamecock," Lucas said. "He told me I have a good chance to experience a lot of good things there. Coach VanGorder said he sees me as a middle linebacker. He said he believes I can really call his defense. He feels like I'm smart enough to do so." An assistant coach from Maryland also met with Lucas Monday. He's expecting recruiters from North Carolina and NC State to visit during the week. Lucas is scheduled to visit Maryland this weekend but he said he's considering switching that to USC and will decide on that later in the week. Lucas said he does not have a favorite. "I'm still evaluating," he said.

DELTOR

01-22-2008, 10:33 AM

Wynnco.com

01-22-2008, 01:11 PM

Yeah, I hope that works out. We need to start turning these in state kids and start a tradition of coming to Columbia. Nothing will probably really do that though short of winning. Winning fixes most everything.

SCFan34

01-22-2008, 05:47 PM

Tim McGee is a 3-star JUCO committed to play for perennial Big Teneleven doormat Minnesota. STACEY McGee is a 4-star DT but he's committed to Okiehoma.

I think you are wrong. I am speaking of the Scout reported 4star DT went to JUCO E. Miss. and has high interest in SC.

Scout.com: Tim McGee Profile (http://recruiting.scout.com/a.z?s=73&p=8&c=1&nid=3090878)

pc72687

01-22-2008, 06:08 PM

Lucas would be nice. We need some linebackers here. Beyond Brinkley I can't think of a recent linebacker that just dominated.

lacene

01-22-2008, 06:49 PM

I think you are wrong. I am speaking of the Scout reported 4star DT went to JUCO E. Miss. and has high interest in SC.

Scout.com: Tim McGee Profile (http://recruiting.scout.com/a.z?s=73&p=8&c=1&nid=3090878)

As to McGee, I think the coaches are being very selective towards bringing in JUCO players that will - at best - only give the program two seasons before moving on. JUCO's are good, quick-fix solutions - especially the real good ones - for programs that are thin in depth and talent, or need to produce results quickly (as opposed to taking the time and patience to build a solid program from the ground up). You look at USC's lack of experience and depth on defense in '06, and the signing of the Brinkley brothers, or the lack of seasoned depth at WR, and the signing of Freeman, as examples. It's a roll of the dice: we reaped the rewards with the Brinkley's, and Freeman looks to be a bust.

As to Jarriel King, this also was a roll, I guess. But it looks to be coming up sevens for us so far, as King is not only a top-rated JUCO (#1 JUCO prospect by some last season), but because of his suspension from the team at GMA, we'll have his services for 3 seasons in 3 years, as opposed to the typical 2 seasons in 3.

As Spurrier builds the depth and talent of our team, I would expect to see a lot less JUCO signees in the future, unless we made some unbreakable pledge to them, or they are simply too good to be true....

Williams-Brice

01-22-2008, 08:43 PM

This staff handles JUCO's the way they should. You don't sign a JUCO unless you bring in a freshman at the same position. When the JUCO graduates, the guy you brought in as a freshman should be good to go.

That being said, we're at a point where we don't need JUCO players anymore. It's likely that we'll add one here or there throughout the years, but King's situation is different from most players'. He was in Spurrier's first recruiting class, and has never wavered in his commitment level to USC. Spurrier has shown the same commitment to him. Also, this staff will not view guys with 3 years to play 3 as typical JUCO players.

SCFan34

01-22-2008, 09:29 PM

Thanks guys!!! I appreciate the examination.

WB you working up any good scoops on recruiting

Williams-Brice

01-22-2008, 10:15 PM

Nothing new to report other than Jonathan Cooper deciding not to announce a decision until next week at the earliest (I still think he could pull the trigger this week) and that USC now leads for Jaron Brown. Carolina would find a way to take a Brown, Streeter, and Lawrence trio.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:48 AM

January 22, 2008
Tuesday Night Recruiting Notes
By Phil Kornblut

Fort Dorchester LB Robert Quinn met with his recruiter from Alabama Tuesday afternoon, and will meet with Auburn coaches at his home Tuesday night. Coach Steve LaPrad was not sure but was expecting Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville to be among the group. Quinn has visited Auburn, Alabama and North Carolina. LaPrad said he got a call from USC Monday but the Gamecocks did not come in today.

Fort Dorchester DB Tony Mack will visit Presbyterian this coming weekend. He also will visit Newberry and Catawba.

USC assistant coach Shane Beamer and a recruiter from Wake Forest will tonight be at the basketball game of DE Devin Taylor of Beaufort. Taylor visited Duke and NC State over the weekend. He also has visited USC and Wake Forest. He will visit Virginia Tech this coming weekend. NC State head coach Tom O'Brien is expected in Thursday for his in home visit.

USC assistant coach John Hunt will attend Wilmington, NC OL Jonathan Cooper's basketball game tonight. Cooper is deciding between USC and North Carolina. He is scheduled to visit Wake Forest and NC State the next two weekends but those visits aren't confirmed.

AC Flora OL Kenneth Page will announce his college choice Friday morning at nine at a news conference at his high school. He will choose either Clemson, Tennessee, Notre Dame or North Carolina.

AC Flora DB Elliott Richardson (6-2 210) has committed to Elon.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:49 AM

January 22, 2008
Former Gamecocks Finds A New Home
By Phil Kornblut

Former USC defensive end Shea McKeen has committed to NC State according to the Fayetteville Observer. McKeen played this past season at Nassau Community College in Garden City, NY where he earned All-Northeast Football League Honors with 42 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and four sacks. “They’ve (N.C. State) been on him the whole time along with every other major school in the ACC and SEC,’’ Nassau’s assistant head coach Joe Osovet told the paper. “Every coach who walked through the door wanted to know who our defensive end was. “He’s a great pass rusher. He’s one of those defensive ends who can play both the pass and run really well. He really doesn’t have a weakness. He has a high motor and is a great leader.’’ Ironically, McKeen will play his first game with the Wolfpack in Columbia as State will open its season against the Gamecocks.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:50 AM

January 22, 2008
Brown Names A Leader
By Phil Kornblut

Cheraw WR Jaron Brown (6-3 190) says that USC has a slight lead over Clemson as he gets ready for his official visit at Michigan. Brown made his official visit to USC last weekend. "I got the opportunity to bond with coach Spurrier Jr." Brown said. "I had a good time with the other receivers. South Carolina has a great business school and I'm thinking about majoring in business." Brown had an in home visit with Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez on Monday night. He will be in Ann Arbor this weekend. He also has visited Clemson. Clemson assistant coach Dabo Swinney watched Brown's basketball game last Friday and he and Tiger head coach Tommy Bowden will make their in home visit Thursday. USC recruiter David Reaves will take in Brown's game tonight at Andrew Jackson.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:51 AM

January 22, 2008
Spurrier Meets With Harbin
By Phil Kornblut

USC head coach Steve Spurrier and assistants Ron Cooper and Steve Spurrier Jr. met Tuesday afternoon with DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL at his school. Harbin's father attended the meeting as well. "It went really well," Mr. Harbin said Tuesday night. A recruiter from North Carolina also met with Harbin Tuesday. Harbin made his official visit to USC Sunday and Monday. He was at North Carolina earlier in the weekend. He also has visited Alabama. "Right now we have three balls up in the air and we're juggling them," Mr. Harbin said when asked if a favorite had emerged for his son. Glenn Harbin is scheduled to visit LSU this weekend but his father said he's not heard back from LSU to confirm the trip. He has a visit scheduled for Florida February 1st but again that trip has not been confirmed at this point.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:53 AM

January 22, 2008
USC To See Quinn Thursday
By Phil Kornblut

USC has not thrown in the towel in its efforts to get an official visit from LB Robert Quinn (6-6 255) of Fort Dorchester for one of the last two weekends of the recruiting season. USC defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder and recruiter Shane Beamer are scheduled to meet with Quinn Thursday. Quinn has visited Alabama, Auburn and North Carolina and has no other official visits scheduled. He made several unofficial visits to USC during the season but thus far has turned down the Gamecocks' offer for an official visit. Quinn met Tuesday with coaches from Alabama and Auburn.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 09:54 AM

January 22, 2008
Savage Still Planning USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

DE Jomarcus Savage (6-3 262) of Huntsville, AL is scheduled to visit USC this coming weekend, but he's waiting to hear back from recruiter Ron Cooper before the trip is finalized. Savage said he talked with Cooper two days ago about the visit. Savage visited Tennessee last weekend and also has visited Auburn. The USC visit would be his last. A Tennessee assistant visited Savage in his home Tuesday night. Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville and an assistant will visit him Wednesday. Savage said he does not have a favorite and will make his decision soon after the USC visit.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 12:33 PM

January 23, 2008
USC Checking On Sanderson
By Phil Kornblut

USC recruiter David Reaves is meeting with OL Rhonne Sanderson (6-4 280) of Tampa today. Sanderson has visited Western Kentucky, Ball State and Michigan State. He is scheduled to visit Florida State this weekend and would like to set a visit with USC. He is the brother of former USC lineman Watts Sanderson.

Wynnco.com

01-23-2008, 03:40 PM

January 23, 2008
Lucas Moves Up USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) of Orangeburg-Wilkinson has moved up his official visit to USC to this weekend according to his coach Reggie Kennedy. Lucas has visited NC State and North Carolina. He will visit Wake Forest the middle of next week and Maryland February 1st. Wake Forest coaches are visiting with Lucas today. USC coaches, including head coach Steve Spurrier, were in on Monday.

raptorcox

01-23-2008, 05:09 PM

OK, we have 20 commitments and Spurrier has stated that we will take somewhere between 23 and 26 commitments with this class.

Here are some left "on the board:"
Tommy Streeter (4 star WR)
T.J. Lawrence (4 star WR)
Glenn Harbin (4 star DE)
Robert Quinn (4 star DE)
Jaron Brown (3 star ATH)
Jomarcus Savage (3 star DT)
Sterling Lucas (3 star ILB)

What are the percentages of us getting each?

Supposedly we lead for Streeter, Lawrence, Harbin and Brown I believe......

Williams-Brice

01-23-2008, 10:13 PM

OK, we have 20 commitments and Spurrier has stated that we will take somewhere between 23 and 26 commitments with this class.

Here are some left "on the board:"
Tommy Streeter (4 star WR) - 95%
T.J. Lawrence (4 star WR) - 90%
Glenn Harbin (4 star DE) - 95% if Alabama doesn't step up; 0% if they do
Robert Quinn (4 star DE) - 10%
Jaron Brown (3 star ATH) - 75%
Jomarcus Savage (3 star DT) - 10%
Sterling Lucas (3 star ILB) - 80%

Quinn won't tell our staff what the other staffs are telling him regarding Carolina. I've never really seen a situation like his. Brown appears to be favoring Carolina right now, but his quickest path to playing time is in Clemson. It doesn't look like we're going to bring Savage in this weekend. It looks like Lucas has decided to cancel his Maryland visit and come to USC this weekend. Jonathan Cooper is still on the board.

Also, there is a big surprise out there.

Williams-Brice

01-23-2008, 10:16 PM

Reid McCollum has left USC and will re-enroll this summer with the rest of the recruiting class. Before any of you question his mental or emotional capacity, let me remind you that he has lived through two tragedies this year. His mentor was one of the Charleston 9, which is the group of firemen killed in a fire in Charleston this past summer. Also, his girlfriend was one of the girls killed in the North Carolina beach house fire. I can't fault the kid for going home right now. I'm sure the transition was tough.

lacene

01-23-2008, 11:50 PM

Here are some left "on the board:"
Tommy Streeter (4 star WR) - 95%
T.J. Lawrence (4 star WR) - 90%
Glenn Harbin (4 star DE) - 95% if Alabama doesn't step up; 0% if they do
Robert Quinn (4 star DE) - 10%
Jaron Brown (3 star ATH) - 75%
Jomarcus Savage (3 star DT) - 10%
Sterling Lucas (3 star ILB) - 80%

Quinn won't tell our staff what the other staffs are telling him regarding Carolina. I've never really seen a situation like his. Brown appears to be favoring Carolina right now, but his quickest path to playing time is in Clemson. It doesn't look like we're going to bring Savage in this weekend. It looks like Lucas has decided to cancel his Maryland visit and come to USC this weekend. Jonathan Cooper is still on the board.

Also, there is a big surprise out there.

Can you tell us what it is if we promise to act surprised when it happens??

Also, Kornblut has reported that an announcement is forthcoming from Cooper tomorrow (today). OL Rhonne Sanderson (6-4 280) of Tampa is on standby, and will be offered if Cooper picks UNC, according to Kornblut.....

scfan5338

01-24-2008, 07:47 AM

Can you tell us what it is if we promise to act surprised when it happens??

Also, Kornblut has reported that an announcement is forthcoming from Cooper tomorrow (today). OL Rhonne Sanderson (6-4 280) of Tampa is on standby, and will be offered if Cooper picks UNC, according to Kornblut.....

hahhaha good one lacene. we can wait it out man, only 10 or so more days till signing day. I hope its AJ Green lol that would be freaking awesome!!!

Wynnco.com

01-24-2008, 09:20 AM

January 23, 2008
Small Visit Lists For USC & Clemson
By Phil Kornblut

USC and Clemson are scheduled for a light weekend of official visits. The Gamecocks currently have three visits scheduled, the Tigers four.

Scheduled to visit USC are committed DL Jarriel King (6-7 270) of Georgia Military JC, LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) of Orangeburg-Wilkinson, and DE Jomarcus Savage (6-3 262) of Huntsville, AL.

Scheduled to visit Clemson are committed RB Andre Ellington (5-10 170) of Berkeley, committed WR Brandon Ford (6-4 207) of Hanahan, TE Dwayne Allen (6-4 240) of Fayetteville, NC and OL Bobby Massie (6-6 315) of Lynchburg, VA.

Both lists are unofficial at this point and subject to change.

Wynnco.com

01-24-2008, 09:22 AM

January 23, 2008
Cooper's Decision Affects Sanderson
By Phil Kornblut

OL Rhonne Sanderson (6-4 280) of Tampa met Wednesday with USC recruiter David Reaves. Sanderson has not been offered by the Gamecocks. "They are waiting on another guy (Jonathan Cooper) to decide Thursday between USC and North Carolina," Sanderson said. "If he picks North Carolina, they will offer me." Sanderson has visited Michigan State, Western Kentucky and Ball State. He is scheduled to visit Florida State this weekend. Florida State recruiter Lawson Dawsey is scheduled to visit him Thursday.

jeffbodean61

01-24-2008, 11:04 AM

Rivals report VanGorder is going to be Def. Cord. for Falcons.......Go figure!

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 11:18 AM

Screw VanGorder.

You'll find out about the surprise on NSD. I can honestly tell you that I don't know who it is. It's that tight-lipped.

nellanaesp

01-24-2008, 11:35 AM

Rivals report VanGorder is going to be Def. Cord. for Falcons.......Go figure!
I've seen/heard nothing about this. Any articles?

nellanaesp

01-24-2008, 11:36 AM

I found something. If this is true, I think I might cry. :laugh::sad:
VanGorder returns to Falcons to run defense | ajc.com (http://www.ajc.com/news/content/sports/falcons/stories/2008/01/24/falconsburst_0124.html)

SCFan34

01-24-2008, 02:38 PM

Screw VanGorder.

You'll find out about the surprise on NSD. I can honestly tell you that I don't know who it is. It's that tight-lipped.

SO THAT WAS YOUR SURPRISE!!!!!! GOSH I hope there is a positive one in the future sometime.

Would we purposely wait that long for another DC.. God we need a good one.

Keep us posted Brother B.

SCFan34

01-24-2008, 02:40 PM

Updated: 3:28 p.m.
Steve Spurrier has called a press conference for 4 p.m. today to announce a replacement for defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder, the USC coach told The State this afternoon.

Spurrier would not say who his new coach is, but he could turn to Arkansas defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson. Spurrier spoke with Johnson, who was then at Mississippi State, and reportedly offered him the job before hiring VanGorder, according to sources.

Johnson received a three-year deal from new Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino, but has not signed the contract, according to a source close to Johnson.

If Johnson is not Spurrier's choice, other potential candidates include Alabama defensive coordinator Randy Steele and Florida co-defensive coordinator Charlie Strong, who ran Lou Holtz's defenses at USC from 1999-2002.

As for VanGorder, his USC stint turned out to be the shortest of the jobs held by the well-traveled Michigan native over the past three years.

VanGorder, hired by Spurrier on Dec. 19, has left USC to take the same post with new Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith.

VanGorder worked with Smith with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2005, one of five jobs VanGorder has held since January 2005. VanGorder was the Falcons' linebackers coach this past season under Petrino, who bolted for Arkansas with three games remaining in the NFL season. Smith was hired by the Falcons on Wednesday.

VanGorder agreed to a three-year deal at USC last month, but had not yet signed a contract, USC spokesman Russ McKinney said.

Attempts to reach VanGorder for comment today were unsuccessful.

VanGorder's wife and school-age children had remained at the family's home near the Falcons' complex in Flowery Branch, Ga. VanGorder said previously he did not plan on selling his house on Lake Lanier.

SCFan34

01-24-2008, 03:08 PM

So is Ellis Johnson a good move or not?

larryt4111

01-24-2008, 03:43 PM

raptorcox

01-24-2008, 03:53 PM

REPORTEDLY EARLIER HERE ON THIS BOARD.
The stumbling block on Johnson to start with was his insistence on hiring his own coaches for the D.
I wonder what else might be in the offing as far as assistant coaches go?

Exactly.

He would have likely been hired over VanGorder the first go round had he not been so insistant upon bringing in his own coaches.

I pray that we haven't allowed him to bring in too many to where we have to get rid of some of ours as was speculated the first time.

Has it been "officially" announced yet? I know there was supposed to be a 4 p.m. press conference......

Gamecocks4Life

01-24-2008, 04:18 PM

Williams Brice, Does BVG going to the Falcons effect any of are recruits and the surprise?

raptorcox

01-24-2008, 05:21 PM

Williams Brice, Does BVG going to the Falcons effect any of are recruits and the surprise?

W-B wrote this on the VanGorder Thread.....

The only negative it has on recruiting is that Robert Quinn is likely not an option now.

Tony Morrell also just stated that he didn't think VanGorder had even had any effect on recruiting as he was getting situated and doesn't expect it to impact our recruits at all.

Gamecocks4Life

01-24-2008, 05:56 PM

Thank you!!! That's good to hear.

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 06:35 PM

SO THAT WAS YOUR SURPRISE!!!!!! GOSH I hope there is a positive one in the future sometime.

Would we purposely wait that long for another DC.. God we need a good one.

Keep us posted Brother B.

That was definitely NOT my surprise! No one could have seen that one coming!

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 06:40 PM

So is Ellis Johnson a good move or not?

It's a fantastic move. My top three candidates were Bud Foster, Brian VanGorder, and Ellis Johnson. Ellis Johnson was Spurrier's first choice when all of this started. Let's not forget that Johnson was offered the job before VanGorder, but the snag came up with the assistant coaches, which is apparently not an issue anymore. Before that, Foster threw his name into the hat, and it looked like Spurrier was going to be able to make a hire without doing any work.

If you want a big name, then you struck out here. If you want production from a guy who has repeatedly done more with less year in and year out, then you hit a home run here. When all was said and done, we got the guy Spurrier had at the top of his list from the beginning. That's really all I need to know.

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 06:42 PM

All is well. Don't worry about recruiting. VanGorder only made a few decisions and was not in on many prospects, other than Quinn.

raptorcox

01-24-2008, 07:51 PM

Any word on Cooper that was supposed to announce today?

I am curious if he decided to go to UNC and we decided to offer Sanderson....

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 07:58 PM

I'm sorry if hadn't posted it already; Cooper doesn't plan on announcing this week.

Williams-Brice

01-24-2008, 11:30 PM

It looks like I could be wrong about Quinn.

Ellis Johnson is a huge hire when it comes to recruiting the state of South Carolina. Carolina probably won't end up with Quinn, but Johnson has a great reputation with the high school coaches in this state, and he is friends with many of them. He used to coach in the Upstate, at Clemson, and at The Citadel. He has coached on an SEC Championship team and a National Championship team. In terms of recruiting our state, Johnson is a better hire than VanGorder. It may not manifest in time to see it this year because signing day is less than two weeks away, but you'll see it next year.

And you'll like it.

jeffbodean61

01-25-2008, 05:31 AM

I can only imagine the spin from other recuiters, will in some negative way affect us.If I were on the outside looking in,it would appear that there is some kind of confusion in the program,but in "Spurrier I Trust"!!!!!Just another speed bump in the Gamecock way of life.Go Cocks!!!!!!!

Wynnco.com

01-25-2008, 10:23 AM

January 24, 2008
USC Doesn't Get To Quinn Thursday
By Phil Kornblut

USC recruiter Shane Beamer planned to visit Fort Dorchester LB Robert Quinn (6-6 255) Thursday with defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder. But with VanGorder's decision to leave the program and rejoin the Atlanta Falcons, the visit was postponed. USC has been working Quinn to get him in for an official visit. Quinn will take the college entrance exam this Saturday and USC is hoping he'll come in for a visit after that. Quinn has been non-committal. He has visited North Carolina, Auburn and Alabama.

Wynnco.com

01-25-2008, 10:24 AM

January 24, 2008
Brown Meeting With Klimp Sin Today
By Phil Kornblut

Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden and assistant Dabo Swinney are meeting today with Cheraw WR Jaron Brown and his mother at the school. Brown went into the meeting with a slight lean to USC. He has taken official visits to Clemson and USC and will visit Michigan this weekend. Prior to going to Cheraw, Bowden and Swinney stopped by Central High in Pageland to check on junior DE Justice Cunningham (6-3 220).

Wynnco.com

01-25-2008, 10:25 AM

January 24, 2008
Harbin Apparently Staying Home This Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL was scheduled to visit LSU this weekend, but hs mother said Thursday night she does not believe that trip will take place. "We haven't heard anything from them this week and we don't have an agenda for a trip," Mrs. Harbin said. Harbin has visited USC, North Carolina and Alabama. He is scheduled to visit Florida February 1st. USC coach Steve Spurrier and recruiter Ron Cooper met with Harbin earlier in the week as did a recruiter from North Carolina.

Wynnco.com

01-25-2008, 10:26 AM

January 24, 2008
All Even For Brown
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jaron Brown (6-3 190) of Cheraw met Thursday at his school with Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden and recruiter Dabo Swinney. Brown's mother also sat in on the meeting. "My mom got a chance to ask a few questions that she didn't get to ask on the official visit," Brown said. "Straight, one on one. I really enjoyed talking with coach Bowden. He's very straight up and honest. He talked about the returning receivers and he said year after next it will be wide open." Brown said earlier in the week he was favoring USC slightly over Clemson, but that's not the case now. "Right now I have no frontrunner," he said. Brown and his parents will visit Michigan this weekend flying out of Charlotte on Saturday and returning on Sunday night.

Wynnco.com

01-25-2008, 10:27 AM

January 24, 2008
Cooper Undecided Headed Into Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

OL Jonathan Cooper (6-3 305) of Wilmington, NC has not made a decision between USC and North Carolina according to his coach Scott Braswell. "I think he he thoroughly enjoyed his visit to South Carolina (last weekend) and that's made it an extra difficult decision for him," Braswell said. "That's a compliment to coach Spurrier, coach Lawing and coach Hunt, the coach he'd play for if he went to South Carolina. But he has not made a decision yet." It was thought Cooper would have a decision this week but it now looks like Monday at the earliest.

pc72687

01-25-2008, 10:35 AM

Well, Johnson is definitly a players coach. Not sure if I said it earlier but he used to coddle the athletes at the Citadel and caused a major riff between athletes and the corp that is still very prevailent today.

jeffbodean61

01-25-2008, 01:53 PM

January 25, 2008
Donley Headed To USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR D.J. Donley (6-4 203) has been granted his release by Georgia Tech so that he can transfer to USC his former high school coach said Friday. "He requested his release and it took a little longer than anticipated," Charlton County, GA coach Rich McWhorter said. "He got his release for South Carolina and it ran thru the time to enroll. He just came home (to Folkston, GA). I talked to coach Spurrier Jr. and to coach Hunt today and his plans are to be up there in March. He'll go thru spring football and go thru next year as a redshirt. He will have three to get three. He had a really good bowl game and coach Johnson really didn't want him to go. But he is officially released and South Carolina has the paperwork and he'll be arriving in March." Donley strongly considered USC before signing with Tech last February. For his high school career he caught 88 passes for 1490 yards and 15 touchdowns.

raptorcox

01-25-2008, 02:43 PM

Williams-Brice

01-25-2008, 03:32 PM

He won't count against a class. He'll just count against the overall scholarship number once he enrolls.

Gamecocks4Life

01-25-2008, 04:22 PM

Does anyone have a idea of who ''recruit x" is?

JerryBeeds

01-25-2008, 04:25 PM

Does anyone have a idea of who ''recruit x" is?

Kareem Abdul Jabar.

lacene

01-25-2008, 05:59 PM

Cooper has committed to UNC....

scfan5338

01-25-2008, 06:13 PM

Kareem Abdul Jabar.

yesssssss. he could help out the bball team big time.

raptorcox

01-25-2008, 06:24 PM

Cooper has committed to UNC....

Yep, it's confirmed.

CONFIRMED by Rivals.com:

January 25, 2008

Cooper heading to UNC

CarolinaBlue.com Staff
CarolinaBlue.com

Wilmington (N.C.) Hoggard offensive lineman Jonathan Cooper made his decision on local television affiliate WECT-TV6 Friday evening, and it looks as though he'll continue wearing blue at the college level.

lacene

01-25-2008, 06:52 PM

We need to go offer Rhonne Sanderson, then.......tonight.....now.

SCFan34

01-25-2008, 09:10 PM

DANG!!!! We are losing some critical guys. I hope Harbin, Lucas, and Brown are still in our grasp

Williams-Brice

01-25-2008, 09:17 PM

We need to go offer Rhonne Sanderson, then.......tonight.....now.

He is thought of as the best pass blocker in Florida this year. I haven't seen any film on him, but I know our coaches like him. I just hope we aren't going to offer him for the sake of bringing in a warm body.

Williams-Brice

01-25-2008, 09:24 PM

Does anyone have a idea of who ''recruit x" is?

I don't, but the super gurus are projecting him to sign with Carolina. I've also heard that he may be a sign and place guy. I'm not 100% sure what the situation is; I just know it's favoring the Gamecocks as of tonight.

HughDamwright

01-25-2008, 09:28 PM

I don't, but the super gurus are projecting him to sign with Carolina. I've also heard that he may be a sign and place guy. I'm not 100% sure what the situation is; I just know it's favoring the Gamecocks as of tonight.

Any idea what position "X" plays?

Williams-Brice

01-25-2008, 09:33 PM

4-star defensive player is what I have gathered.

jeffbodean61

01-26-2008, 06:26 AM

Could "X" be EJ Abrams-Ward of NC?

WayzUp

01-26-2008, 06:57 AM

He is thought of as the best pass blocker in Florida this year.
How is he at run blocking?

SCFan34

01-26-2008, 07:52 AM

Williams-Brice

01-26-2008, 10:44 AM

Could "X" be EJ Abrams-Ward of NC?

Nope. It can't be him. Since you asked, I'm going to PM you the reason why it can't be him. If any other Gamecock wants to know why, then PM me.

Williams-Brice

01-26-2008, 10:47 AM

so is Recruit X, THE BIG SURPRISE!!!!!

Bingo! Whoever it is will be a surprise to me, too. If this falls through, then I'll let inform y'all, but it's still in place as of right now.

Williams-Brice

01-26-2008, 10:48 AM

How is he at run blocking?

Don't know. All I know is our staff's opinion of him as a pass blocker. I haven't seen film on him to know with my own eyes.

raptorcox

01-27-2008, 01:20 PM

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 02:46 PM

I sure am glad we got the 4 star WR from GT to transfer to us.....

Recruiting isn't looking as good right this second as it was a week or so ago IMHO.

Cooper committed to UNC.

Harbin is favoring Bama now and I would say from his comments that he is almost a lock for them.

If we do not get BOTH Streeter and Lawrence this class is likely not to finish in the top 30 when all is said and done.

You know Harbin has been favoring Bama the whole time, right? He has wanted to commit to them forever now, but they don't have room. If they don't accept his commitment in the long haul, then he's going to be a Gamecock. Thus, we all need to pull for Bama to land Robert Quinn, as odd as that sounds. I don't know what the purpose of PK's interview was with Harbin. He really must stretch for interviews and information since Rivals, Scout, and The Big Spur has made his work pretty insignificant. The information in that article on Harbin has been consistent with Harbin's entire recruiting process.

Recruiting is going fine. Not landing Cooper means that OL will be the main goal of next year's class, and there are plenty of prospects already on the board.

We will land both Streeter and Lawrence, and I'll be shocked if we don't land Harbin. Don't forget that there is at least one surprise out there. There's a chance we end up with 9 or 10 4-star players.

raptorcox

01-27-2008, 03:00 PM

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 03:11 PM

I agree that recruiting is going fine by USC's standards, but we cannot continue to have inferior classes to those that are already ahead of us or we will never break through to win the SEC.

Just check the Rivals rankings and they are the same ole same ole..... Florida at the top, UGA, LSU, etc..., ahead of us.

The only real surprise so far is that TN is having a bad recruiting year, but I am sure they have a lot left on the board that will jump them from their current 44th ranked position.

If we can't somehow start to become a consistent top 10 to 15 recruiting team, then we may as well settle for being where we are at now..... right in the middle of the SEC pack.

We will never be a consistent Top 10 - 15 team in terms of recruiting. More like a team that can have a great class like last year's class every now and then and Top 20 classes in between. It's kinda like Auburn. They usually have solid classes, but they are able to redshirt players every year, allowing them to develop their Top 20 talent. Once we can do that, we'll be the same type of program they are.

Does anyone remember who the huge surprise was last year? I know we go through this drama about a huge surprise every year and it either doesn't pan out or the surprise isn't nearly as spectacular as most of us had hoped. Anyone remember last year's surprise? I know I don't..... but I do remember us discussing it 2 months prior to Signing Day.

Ladi Ajiboye and Clifton Geathers were last year's Player X and Player Y.

SCFan34

01-27-2008, 03:50 PM

The Dream (in my opinion) would be

Sterling Lucas
TJ Lawrence
Jaron Brown

That would put us at 23 + (THE BIG SURPRISE) would put us at 24.

if that happens, would you guys see us going for folks like

BJ Brand DT ?
Javontae Boyd OT ?

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 03:59 PM

What I'm hearing is that Brand is JUCO or prep school bound. If he goes the prep school route, then they may try to place him at FUMA, but they will not sign and place him. I don't know why they won't sign and place. My understanding of that type of the situation is not that great.

Carolina is done with Boyd.

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 04:04 PM

I feel like Brand could be a high 4-star or 5-star prospect after a year at prep school.

raptorcox

01-27-2008, 04:36 PM

Personally, I hope we get Streeter and Lawrence as expected. Between those 2 - 4 star WR's and the GT WR that transfered in, we seem to be loading up with top talent at the position.

Streeter's father just came out and said they will announce next Sunday after he visits Miami.

I'm not sure how greater Cooper is, but hate that we missed out on him since the coaches obviously wanted him. It appears that we are in no hurry to go the backup plan route and offer Sanderson as he was quoted as saying we would if Cooper went elsewhere.

Lucas' father said USC is his (the fathers) favorite, but his son is still considering the two ACC schools as well.

I know we were said to have a great shot at Brown, but he seems to be blown away by Michigan. I am praying we still get him aboard....

Harbin I don't feel good about. I understand what W-B is saying about Bama, but I think they will make a way to take him even if it is just to stop us from having him. Bama lean or not, up until this point he hasn't publicly stated that he was a Bama lean and I feel he is doing so now because they have talked to him and think they can in fact take him in.

It seems we are losing a fair share of recruits to lesser programs like UNC and that has to sting.

I also don't believe that USC can never be a consistent top 15 type recruiting team. Success on the field generally equals success in recruiting, which in turn equals more success on the field. You can't have average recruiting and ever expect to break through to the elite level in college football. If we expect to ever be a major player in the game, then we need to lose the idea that we can only have great recruiting classes once in awhile.

FLgamecockJAX

01-27-2008, 06:26 PM

As for Brand, I hope he goes the Prep School route and lets us sign/place. I had heard something about Troy, but hopefully sign/place at FUMA is an option. SOS has said something about oversigning. He seems to like this option.

If we can start competing for the SEC, under SOS, I believe a consistent top 15 recruiting class is achievable. We don't necessary HAVE to win the SEC recruiting battle to win the SEC. We DO need to consistently sign good classes. While at UF, SOS always made cracks about UGA winning in February, but losing the game. It comes down to coaching, but we DO need to consistently sign good classes.

I've been following recruiting consistently the last 8 years. I've met lots of people on these boards and I've learned that W-B has some good sources. Yes, he stated about players X/Y last year and look what happened. Things DO change in recruiting, but W-B's sources are as reliable as they come.

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 06:47 PM

Personally, I hope we get Streeter and Lawrence as expected. Between those 2 - 4 star WR's and the GT WR that transfered in, we seem to be loading up with top talent at the position.

Florida apparently doesn't feel great about landing WR Julio Jones. They are making a late push to get TJ Lawrence. It's probably around 60/40 Carolina right now. He'll make a NSD decision live on ESPN. I'm going to check to see if Spurrier still has his in-home visit to make with Lawrence.

Streeter's father just came out and said they will announce next Sunday after he visits Miami.

They still aren't even sure they're going to visit Miami. Even if they do, I believe it's too late for Miami. They slow played him too long, and we just completely dominated his recruiting.

I'm not sure how greater Cooper is, but hate that we missed out on him since the coaches obviously wanted him. It appears that we are in no hurry to go the backup plan route and offer Sanderson as he was quoted as saying we would if Cooper went elsewhere.

The coaches wanted him, and his parents wanted him to go to USC. He just wanted to be a Tar Heel. Quite frankly, his chances of playing early there are way better than they are at USC. We would have redshirted him. He may get to play at UNC next year. I'm glad we haven't offered Sanderson. There's no need to offer him if the staff thinks he's just going to be a warm body.

Lucas' father said USC is his (the fathers) favorite, but his son is still considering the two ACC schools as well.

Lucas is definitely favoring USC, and a decision could come this week. You have to understand that not a soul was recruiting Sterling until about 3 weeks ago. He's got a lot of information being thrown at him for the first time, and it's fair for him to take his time to process all of it. The fact of the matter is that he has wanted to be a Gamecock his whole life. It says a lot that he canceled his Maryland visit to come to Carolina and was subsequently blown away this weekend. He'll be a Gamecock.

I know we were said to have a great shot at Brown, but he seems to be blown away by Michigan. I am praying we still get him aboard....

Anything you hear about Brown being "blown away" at Michigan is just recruiting talk. He went up there for a glorified vacation. It's 50/50 Carolina/Clemson, and Carolina may even have a slight lead. Spurrier has his in-home visit with Brown on Tuesday, while Tommy Bowden has already exhausted his.

Harbin I don't feel good about. I understand what W-B is saying about Bama, but I think they will make a way to take him even if it is just to stop us from having him. Bama lean or not, up until this point he hasn't publicly stated that he was a Bama lean and I feel he is doing so now because they have talked to him and think they can in fact take him in.

Yes, he most certainly has. He has publicly said that from the very beginning. There is no reason for Bama to take a kid solely for the purpose of not allowing us to have him. Bama wouldn't even take a kid solely for the purpose of Auburn not having him. That's would be a terrible recruiting practice. We rarely compete with Bama on the field or for recruits. The bottom-line is that they haven't talked to him and told him they can take him. If Bama tells him that he has a committable offer, then he will commit to Bama in a heartbeat. Thus, if the situation you are proposing were true, then he would be a Bama commit this evening.

It seems we are losing a fair share of recruits to lesser programs like UNC and that has to sting.

UNC has 12 commitments. 12! Out of those 12, we only recruited 3: Jamal Womble, Kevin Reddick, and Jonathan Cooper. Out of the 20 commitments we have, they recruited 3 of them: Charles Whitlock, Reggie Bowens, and Kenny Davis. We're likely going to land Sterling Lucas, which will make 4. Regardless, UNC has a lot to offer, especially with Butch Davis there now. The way you view losing a recruit to UNC is pretty much the way schools like Florida and Georgia view losing a recruit to us. I think you are vastly overlooking what Butch Davis and that school/program have to offer. Plus, with only 12 commitments (one being 5-star WR Dwight Jones who might not qualify for the 2nd year in a row), you can be assured playing time there.

I also don't believe that USC can never be a consistent top 15 type recruiting team. Success on the field generally equals success in recruiting, which in turn equals more success on the field. You can't have average recruiting and ever expect to break through to the elite level in college football. If we expect to ever be a major player in the game, then we need to lose the idea that we can only have great recruiting classes once in awhile.

There's no reason to expect Carolina to be consistently in the Top 15 in recruiting. There is reason to expect Carolina to consistently be in the Top 20 with a breakthrough year every so often. Just like Auburn. I'm serious that when we get solid players here that the coaches want (keep in mind we haven't had to go after many Plan B's this year, so we are getting guys who fit the system) and we're able to redshirt them and keep them here for 5 years, then we'll have a successful program.

Carolina very likely could have a breakthrough year next year.

One positive that I think is being grossly overlooked in recruiting this year is the pipelines that have been established and could be established by the first Wednesday in February. Garner High School (2007 Chris Culliver, 2008 Reggie Bowens). First Coast High School (2007 Jamire Williams and Arkee Smith (signed, never made it), 2008 Shaq Wilson, 2009 has some good ones, too). Banneker High School (2005 Carlos Thomas, 2007 Ladi Ajiboye, 2008 Darrell Simmons). Cheraw High School (2007 Cliff Matthews, 2008 Jaron Brown, 2009 could give us a running back in Travis Smalls). We've got a great relationship with FUMA, now. It's all looking up in Columbia.

pc72687

01-27-2008, 07:23 PM

We'll have to wait and see how all this pans out. It's only a few days away. No need in blindly shooting out in the dark for who this "player x" is. If these other top guys choose us then great, if they don't then despite what some are saying this class is very good. Way better then the 2005 class that caught press, for being more then just Spurrier's first class, many of its marquee players aren't here anymore. This class looks soild, not on paper (ie number of stars) but the overall quality is there.

FLgamecockJAX

01-27-2008, 07:55 PM

Not landing Cooper means that OL will be the main goal of next year's class, and there are plenty of prospects already on the board.

Prayerfully, our coaches feel confident about landing some great OL talent in the 2009 class. Maybe they feel about some talent. I know they wanted Cooper and I'm sure they would have taken Mattes, but as stated, we are reaching for any warm bodies. Kornblut and his guest just stated (tonight's show) that this class resembles some of Brad Scott's classes (as far as OL).

For us to only take 2 OL's, our coaches must feel good about either position changes, current talent, 2009 prospects or all of the above!

uscrules

01-27-2008, 09:44 PM

I am really disappointed about the offensive line class, I don't care how many great wide recievers and QB's you have, they can't do their job without great lineman.

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 10:10 PM

Well, I think I just found out who Player X is. He has just gone public with his intentions. Chaz Sutton, 4-star DE (#6 weakside DE) from Savannah, was told by Florida that he will not be able to qualify there because of a poor standardized test score. Florida recommends prep schools for players to go to, but they will not send LOI's to prospects who they will have to sign and place. Carolina does not have the same policy. There is still a chance he can qualify, but it is slim. He will visit Carolina next weekend. He will not be signing with Florida. That option is gone. I expect he'll sign with Carolina, and we'll subsequently place him at FUMA. This would be a nice get for us.

lacene

01-27-2008, 10:18 PM

I'm hearing from another board that Chaz Sutton won't make UF's admissions, but would squeak by with USC's, and therefore is looking at coming to USC. Have you heard anything to this effect, W-B???

edit: haha, nevermind......saw this posted over at cockytalk, and read the other posts above before posting this, to make sure it wasn't already asked. I guess you posted while I was reading for it....

:laugh:

thanks!!

Williams-Brice

01-27-2008, 10:23 PM

Hehehe, see my post above your's. It sounds like he's not going to clear admissions at USC because our coaches are already anticipating placing him. Keep in mind that USC has lowered its requirements for athletes. It doesn't sound like he's going to have the standardized test score to qualify. The article I read quoted him as saying he was going to work hard to get his GPA up to 2.5 or 2.6 so his test score wouldn't have to come up so much. Sounds like there is a significant amount of work to be done. Either way, it looks like he's a Gamecock.

lacene

01-27-2008, 10:36 PM

January 27, 2008
Jaron Brown Gives Hint Into Plans
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jaron Brown (6-3 190) of Cheraw appeared on SportsTalk Recruiting RoundTable Sunday night a few hours after returning from his official visit to Michigan. He said he planned to have a decision by Thursday after meeting with his recruiters earlier in the week. Clemson and Michigan are coming in Tuesday and USC Wednesday. When asked which school afforded the opportunity for earliest playing time, Brown answered, "USC." And when asked who he had gotten the most calls from and who had worked him the hardest, Brown answered, "USC." Brown said in the interview that he did not have a leader at that time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I like where his head is at........

usccop

01-27-2008, 10:36 PM

hey w-b, you've got mail...sorry

JerryBeeds

01-28-2008, 06:48 AM

I've heard from someone close to the situation that we're a little more "in it" with Quinn then most believe. I would be shocked if he came here but its just what I've been told.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:26 AM

January 25, 2008
Lucas Might Be Only USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

LB Sterling Lucas of Orangeburg-Wilkinson might have the attention of the USC football staff to himself this weekend. As of mid afternoon Friday, he's the only confirmed official visit for the weekend. DE Jarriel King of Georgia Military JC was scheduled to visit this weekend but is not coming in. DE Jomarcus Savage of Huntsville, AL also is scheduled to visit this weekend and his coach said Friday afternoon he thought the visit was still on but he had not confirmed that with Savage.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:29 AM

January 27, 2008
Tide Moves Out Front With Harbin
By Phil Kornblut

DE Glenn Harbin (6-5 245) of Mobile, AL did not visit anywhere Sunday, and he might be finished with visits. He had talked about visiting Florida this coming weekend but he said nothing has been finalized with the Gators. Harbin has visited USC, Alabama and North Carolina and he said he currently favors the Crimson Tide. "I like the academic environment a lot," Harbin said. "It makes more sense for me than the other two. I want to major in computer science and what the Alabama guy told me was more about what I wanted to study than the other two." Harbin said he was unsure about when he'll make a decision and an announcement.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:29 AM

January 27, 2008
Lucas visits USC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) of Orangeburg-Wilkinson made his official visit to USC over the weekend with his parents and younger brother. "It was a real good trip," Lucas said. "Everything was good about it, I had a very good time. They have real nice facilities. They have a good strength coach who can get you to the next level. I got the chance to spend time with the players and they showed me around. I also got the chance to talk to coach Spurrier before he left (Saturday night for his mother's funeral)." Lucas said he spent most of his time with his recruiter Shane Beamer and players host Eric Norwood. Beamer and new Gamecock defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson will visit Lucas at his school Monday. NC State's linebackers coach also is due in for a visit Monday. Lucas also has visited NC State and North Carolina. He is scheduled to visit Maryland this weekend but is not sure he'll make that trip. Right now he has no favorite. "I enjoyed all the schools, they are three good schools," he said. "I just just got to sit down and evaluate and see which one is the best fit."

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:30 AM

January 27, 2008
Lucas's Dad Knows Where He Wants Son
By Phil Kornblut

Orangeburg-Wilkinson LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) made his official visit to USC over the weekend and is deciding between the Gamecocks, NC State and North Carolina. He will meet Monday with new Gamecock defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson and recruiter Shane Beamer. Lucas's father, Steve Lucas, was on the official visit to USC, and his mind is made up regarding where his son should go. "I like the SEC," Steve Lucas said. "Ultimately it will be his decision. He's got to do the four years. I want him to make the decision tomorrow (Monday). I want to get it out of the way. I think he's winding it down. But you never want to take a job until you meet the boss." In this case, the boss would be Ellis Johnson who not only will coordinator the Gamecocks' defense but coach the linebackers. Johnson and Beamer are expected at the school early in the afternoon.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:31 AM

January 27, 2008
Brown Has Big Time At The Big House
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jaron Brown (6-3 190) of Cheraw made his official visit to Michigan over the weekend with his mother. "It went great," he said. "It was snowing when we first arrived in Detroit and we got there (Ann Arbor) late from missing our flight. We missed the campus tour but got to see the academic center. I got to meet up with my position coach and he explained the offense coach Rodriguez is bringing in. The stadium is like the biggest ever. I imagined walking down the tunnel what the atmosphere must be like on gameday. My mom really enjoyed it, too." Brown is finished with his visits after also seeing Clemson and USC. He said there is no favorite right now. "I'm probably just going to go home and sit downwith my parents and look at the different schools," he said. Clemson recruiter Dabo Swinney and two Michigan coaches are due in on Tuesday. USC recruiters David Reaves and Steve Spurrier Jr. are to visit Wednesday.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:32 AM

January 27, 2008
Streeter Sets Decision Day
By Phil Kornblut

WR Tommy Streeter (6-5 200) of Miami made his official visit to South Florida over the weekend. Streeter has not yet returned home but his father talked to him on the phone. "He said it went wll," Mr. Streeter said. Streeter also has visited USC, Boston College and Oregon and will visit Miami this weekend. Mr. Streeter said they will have a decision next Sunday. USC head coach Steve Spurrier is scheduled for his in home visit with the Streeters Tuesday.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:32 AM

January 27, 2008
Streeter Enjoys South Florida Visit
By Phil Kornblut

WR Tommy Streeter (6-5 200) of Miami made his official visit to South Florida over the weekend and got a good look at what the Big East program has to offer. "The first day we went to the ABC studio and got a tour," he said. "I'm interested in television and broadcasting. A lot of people from South Florida get internships there. Then we went across to the stadium and they showed us where we eat, and the lockerrooms, and where our parents seats. We went to dinner and John Gruden walked in and talked to us. He was with one of the band members from AC/DC. The next day we toured and saw the academic facilities. We went to the team banquet Saturday night at Busch Gardens. And I talked to the coaches this morning. I talked to coach Leavitt." Streeter is scheduled to visit Miami this coming weekend but said he's not sure about that trip right now. He also has visited USC, Oregon and Boston College. USC head coach Steve Spurrier is scheduled to make his in home visit Tuesday. Streeter said he does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:33 AM

January 27, 2008
Quinn To Face One Final Surge
By Phil Kornblut

LB Robert Quinn (6-6 255) of Fort Dorchester this week will see recruiters from all four of the schools pressing for his talent. "I know Alabama, Auburn, North Carolina and South Carolina are coming in this week, I just don't know when," Quinn said. The head coaches from all four schools have been in. Quinn has taken official visits to the out of state schools and USC is still working for a visit. Quinn said he talked recently with recruiter Shane Beamer after the hiring of new defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson. "He just talked to me about how they would use me with coach Johnson," Quinn said. He's expecting Beamer and Johnson to visit him this week. Quinn maintained he doesn't have a favorite and there's not a lot of difference in his mind between the schools. "I'm just really going to go where I feel most comfortable," he said. "Every place is the same except for the defenses and the coaches."

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 09:34 AM

pc72687

01-28-2008, 10:48 AM

Well, W-B beat me too it but it seems Player X is no longer a secret.

raptorcox

01-28-2008, 03:26 PM

I'll never understand why people get so excited about a "sign and place" recruit.

For starters, he wanted to go elsewhere and if he does sign with USC it is merely because FLA won't sign and place him, yet USC will.

THEN, there is no guarnatee or commitment on his part to ever take the field as a Gamecock since he is free to go wherever he wants regardless of who "places" him.

If this is player X, then it is a huge disappointment.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 04:18 PM

January 28, 2008
USC Coaches Meet With Lucas
By Phil Kornblut

New USC defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson and assistant coach Shane Beamer met Monday afternoon with LB Sterling Lucas (6-2 220) of Orangeburg-Wilkinson, and later in the day they will visit with his father at the Lucas home. Lucas made his official visit to USC over the weekend. He also is considering North Carolina and NC State and will have a decision by Wednesday according to his coach Reggie Kennedy. Meantime, O-W DB Brian Harrison (6-0 190) committed Monday to Coastal Carolina over Hampton and SC State.

Wynnco.com

01-28-2008, 04:19 PM

January 28, 2008
USC & Klimp Sin Jump In On Sutton
By Phil Kornblut

DE Chaz Sutton (6-4 230) of Savannah committed to Florida last July and remained firm with his pledge until getting a call from the Gators the Monday after his official visit. "I guess they felt like I wasn't going to make it (academically) and they were going to sign me and put me in Hargrave (Prep, VA)," Sutton said. "Then they decided they weren't going to sign me. They went backon their word, and I didn't like that." Now that Sutton is back on the market, USC and Clemson have moved in. Gamecock defensive line coach Brad Lawing met with Sutton yesterday in Savannah, and Clemson defensive coordinator Vic Koenning phoned him today. Sutton said he might take a visit to Clemson this Wednesday, and he will make an official visit to USC this weekend. "I'm just going down to get a feel for the place and get to know the coaches and the players and see how they would use me as a defensive end," Sutton said of the USC visit. As for his academic situation, Sutton said it's not out of the question he could qualify. "I've still got some tests to take and some grades to pan out," he said. "I'm doing pretty good right now." Last season Sutton totaled 108 tackles and 27.5 sacks.

Williams-Brice

01-28-2008, 05:11 PM

I'll never understand why people get so excited about a "sign and place" recruit.

You don't see the big picture. You need to understand that for Carolina to have consistent Top 15 classes, this is a route they absolutely must take advantage of.

For starters, he wanted to go elsewhere and if he does sign with USC it is merely because FLA won't sign and place him, yet USC will.

And what's the downside there? The bottom line is that he'll end up at Carolina, not Florida. It's not like he won't play as hard because he's not a Gator.

THEN, there is no guarnatee or commitment on his part to ever take the field as a Gamecock since he is free to go wherever he wants regardless of who "places" him.

Whoever places him has the major upper hand when it comes to signing the kid the next year. One of the main goals of the coaching staff at prep schools is to keep their players committed to the schools that placed them there. If a kid wavers from the school that places them, then the school will stop placing players at that prep school. We've never, ever, had a problem with FUMA.

If this is player X, then it is a huge disappointment.

If signing the #6 weakside DE in the country is a disappointment for you, then I don't know what's going to satisfy you.