USC Recruiting News [Archive] - Page 45

raptorcox

03-07-2008, 04:00 PM

While we should all hope that he is solid with his commitment I certainly wouldn't put all my eggs in one basket.

For starters, he IS still going to take another visit. He was quoted as saying he is going on a "ride along" with Jefferies to somewhere else..... now he claims he is just going for the ride, but if you believe that.....

The fact is, these two kids are pretty tight and Jefferies is still open and looking. IF he commits elsewhere, then he will assuredly try to persuade Payne to switch and go to wherever he commits.

March 06, 2008
Jeffery Reacts To Payne's Decision
By Phil Kornblut

Columbia High DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 211) said Thursday he's known for a couple of weeks that his teammate ATH Chris Payne was going to commit to USC. "I found out right after we decommitted from Clemson," Jeffery said. Jeffery acknowledged the two have talked about playing at the same school, but he said Payne's decision does not affect him at this point. "I can't say nothing for him if that's where he wants to go," Jeffery said. "If I go to another school, it will be in the SEC and I will be playing against him." Jeffery said he's focused on playing in the SEC and has basically eliminated Clemson from consideration. "I want to play against the best every week and that's the SEC, " Jeffery said. "Clemson has recruited a couple of safeties and going there would be a waste of my time. Virginia Tech, Oklahoma and Auburn are still in there. USC is at the top of the list but I haven't visited any other SEC schools." That will change this weekend when Jeffery visits Alabama. Payne will join him on the visit but just to go along for the ride. Jeffery recently picked up an offer from Tennessee. He also has offers from North Carolina and Michigan State. Georgia has invited him for their junior day March 22nd and he plans to attend. Jeffery said he was timed Wednesday indoors in the fourty yard dash in 4.37 seconds.

And before anyone tries to talk down PK, I have followed recruiting for a good many years and wil tell you that over the years he has been as accurate as anyone in his predictions and reporting.

Williams-Brice

03-07-2008, 04:16 PM

As odd as this sounds, our staff wants Payne to go with Jeffery. Believe me, this staff more often than not wants guys to shut it down after committing. However, in this case, the coaches believe Payne staying with Jeffery will give them a constant presence by his side. There are several of Carolina prospects from South Carolina heading to Bama this weekend. While Payne will be taking in all of the glamour that is Alabama football, he is going because he wants to recruit for USC, not because he wants to see Alabama.

I would put the chances of Payne getting swayed by anyone, including his best friend DeMario at 1%. The kid grew up loving Carolina, dreaming of playing for the Gamecocks. He has already gotten wrapped up in the process once, and he knows not to get overwhelmed just by a conversation with a coach or the great facilities. This kid is completely a Gamecock, and he's heading to Tuscaloosa to spread the word about USC. It's a beautiful plan, in my opinion. Keep in mind that he has absolutely everyone in his corner pushing him to USC because they know that he loves Carolina, not because of their own personal interests.

raptorcox

03-07-2008, 05:03 PM

That's good to hear.

I just can't help but think that a diehard and lifelong Gamecock fan would NEVER commit to Clemson. That just doesn't add up to me. I would hope most serious Gamecock fans would rather play for any other team in America before Clemson.....

BTW, one of your buddies told me that he thought you would have checked out the new digs by now.....

FLgamecockJAX

03-07-2008, 05:37 PM

Williams-Brice

03-07-2008, 09:21 PM

That's good to hear.

I just can't help but think that a diehard and lifelong Gamecock fan would NEVER commit to Clemson. That just doesn't add up to me. I would hope most serious Gamecock fans would rather play for any other team in America before Clemson.....

Like I said when Jeffery and Payne committed to Clemson . . Clemson is cheating, plain and simple.

BTW, one of your buddies told me that he thought you would have checked out the new digs by now.....

What are you referring to?

raptorcox

03-09-2008, 02:00 PM

W-B, you have a PM.

scfan5338

03-09-2008, 05:02 PM

We need to have a good year this year in order to keep some of these highly touted guys in state. It will be hard to keep guys who are being offered by LSU and southern cal to keep in here. If we win the ones we are suppose to and sneak up on a couple of teams and play close to LSU,UF and UGA, I think we can keep them in state. There is so much in-state talent its not even funny and I really hope we can keep these guys in state and at Carolina.

uscrules

03-09-2008, 07:12 PM

Williams-Brice

03-10-2008, 07:16 AM

Chris Payne, Alshon Jeffery, and David Sims did not go to Alabama for the Tide's junior day. Chris Bonds and DeMario Jeffery did. Alshon and David will go for Bama's "A Day" game.

It wouldn't shock me if Bonds and DeMario came back and said they loved Alabama, but I am comfortable in saying this: The two USC's will be the two schools Bonds chooses from, and I ultimately think he'll stay in Columbia because he is very close to his parents. I believe DeMario will be a Gamecock unless Georgia offers. Keep in mind that Georgia will only be signing 15 guys this year. They really don't even need to leave the state to recruit this year if they don't want to.

pc72687

03-10-2008, 06:24 PM

Why is UGA only signing 15?

Gamecocks4Life

03-10-2008, 07:15 PM

WB, I haven't heard anything lately on Stephon Gilmore. What's the latest with him?

DELTOR

03-10-2008, 07:27 PM

Why is UGA only signing 15?

Cause they already have SOOOO much talent :laugh:

Williams-Brice

03-10-2008, 08:21 PM

WB, I haven't heard anything lately on Stephon Gilmore. What's the latest with him?

He's wide open. If anything, Clemson leads, but it isn't by much.

raptorcox

03-14-2008, 03:34 PM

W-B, did you get my PM?

raptorcox

03-16-2008, 09:01 AM

lacene

03-16-2008, 12:07 PM

March 15, 2008
Donley Reconsidering Tech?
By Phil Kornblut

WR DJ Donley, who left Georgia Tech after the fall semester with plans to transfer to another school, possibly USC, might be considering returning to Tech according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The paper reported Donley and his mother visited Tech last week and met with the coaches. Donley at one time was thought to be planning to enroll at USC in March. But a USC source said recently the staff was uncertain of Donley's plans. Donley's former high school coach said recently he wasn't sure if Donley wanted to continue with college and football. Donley has not returned messages left on his phone and at his home.

I'm not too concerned with that. With Donley having to sit out the 1st year with us anyway for transferring, if he chooses to go elsewhere we'll just fill his vacant scholarship with another solid WR...that's one position that we don't seem to have any problems with, the '08 class notwithstanding.......

lacene

03-17-2008, 09:46 AM

DELTOR

03-17-2008, 04:43 PM

Williams-Brice

03-17-2008, 05:02 PM

Does anyone know anything about this?

http://southcarolina.rivals.com/content.asp?cid=786940

Did Rivals screw up or something? Because it says we're the leader and everything, but in the article, all he talks about is SoCal and no mention of us.

That was written by the Southern Cal Rivals.com site. They are notorious for focusing 100% on the Southern Cal angle and hardly ever mention the other schools involved.

DELTOR

03-17-2008, 05:14 PM

That was written by the Southern Cal Rivals.com site. They are notorious for focusing 100% on the Southern Cal angle and hardly ever mention the other schools involved.

So it is true that we're the leader, and they're just failing to mention that within the article?

Williams-Brice

03-17-2008, 10:09 PM

We're in the lead big-time.

FLgamecockJAX

03-18-2008, 06:03 PM

We seem to be in on lots of big time South Florida players this year. After Streeter this past year, I wasn't sure whether we would continue to recruit that area very hard. By the looks of it, it looks like we've increased our efforts down there. That's good, because they put out tons of talent. Miami can only take so many and there's plenty left looking for D1 opportunities.

W-B, do you have any specific information about our early efforts in South Florida this year? Coach G seems to get along great with the South Florida recruits. Hopefully, he can bring some home for us!

Williams-Brice

03-18-2008, 08:04 PM

W-B, do you have any specific information about our early efforts in South Florida this year? Coach G seems to get along great with the South Florida recruits. Hopefully, he can bring some home for us!

These guys are in Florida. I've listed guys who are listed. Guys in bold have been offered by Carolina. I did not include players committed to other schools.

Corey Addison (ATH, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Nick Alajajian (OL, Naples) -- David Reaves
Ray Ray Armstrong (ATH, Seminole) -- John Hunt
Ben Axon (RB, Bradenton) -- David Reaves
Phillip Bailey (LB, Daytona Beach) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Jaamal Berry (RB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Jon Bostic (LB, Wellington) -- Robert Gillespie
Andrew Carter (OL, Tallahassee) -- Shane Beamer
Matt Coffee (LB, Fort Walton Beach) -- Shane Beamer
Andre Dubose (ATH, Seminole) -- John Hunt
Ricardo Dixon (CB, Hallandale) -- Robert Gillespie
Dyron Dye (DE, Seminole) -- John Hunt
Josh Elizondo (DT, Naples) -- David Reaves
Willie Ferrell (LB, Tallahassee) -- Shane Beamer
Quan Fletcher (LB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Ryne Giddins (DE, Seffner) -- David Reaves
Jarvis Giles (ATH, Tampa) -- David Reaves
Shane Gordon (LB, Weston) -- Robert Gillespie
James Green (WR, Tallahassee) -- Shane Beamer
Wille Haulstead (WR, Titusville) -- John Hunt
Rob Henry (QB, Ocala) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Kendal Hobbs (CB, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Derald Jones (ATH, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Victor Marc (ATH, Hallandale) -- Robert Gillespie
Mike Marry (LB, Largo) -- David Reaves
Demonte McAllister (DE, Tampa) -- David Reaves
Lamar Miller (LB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Alex Monroe (OL, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Aaron Murray (QB, Tampa) -- David Reaves
Brandon Oliver (RB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Lonnie Pryor (RB, Okeechobee) -- John Hunt
Lance Ray (LB, Havana) -- Shane Beamer
Trent Richardson (RB, Pensacola) -- Shane Beamer
Nu'Keese Richardson (WR, Pahokee) -- Robert Gillespie
Lamar Scruggs (LB, Neptune Beach) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Petey Smith (LB, Seffner) -- David Reaves
Nate Stephenson (DE, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Frankie Telfort (LB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Trabis Ward (RB, Fort Lauderdale) -- Robert Gillespie
Kayvon Webster (LB, Miami) -- Robert Gillespie
Jared Wheeler (DT, Plantation) -- Robert Gillespie
Austin Williams (CB, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Adrian Williams (WR, Jacksonville) -- Steve Spurrier, Jr.
Eric Williams (WR, Bradenton) -- David Reaves

Gamecocks4Life

03-18-2008, 08:37 PM

Why haven't we offered Willie Farrell and Jared Wheeler yet?

Williams-Brice

03-18-2008, 09:01 PM

We're still evaluating them from what I understand. I believe we're close to offering Ferrell, and Wheeler shouldn't be far behind. Neither one of them has a whole lot of offers right now, despite the fact that they both got 4-star rankings from Rivals today.

lacene

03-21-2008, 02:45 PM

News is that WR Tori Childers (6-6, 220) of Rock Hill is signing with the Gamecocks, and will be with the team for summer workouts. We recruited him in '05-'06, but he chose UNC over us because he thought he could play basketball as well as football. His grades weren't good enough apparently, and he enrolled at Hargrave Military Academy.

From the sounds of it, it looks like D.J. Donley is not going to transfer to USC after all. This is a timely replacement, and another tall WR to add to our stable. Plus, he can play immediately for 2008.....

lacene

03-21-2008, 02:49 PM

Here it is:

March 21, 2008
USC Adds Late Recruit
By Phil Kornblut

USC had some scholarships after National Signing Day in February, and the Gamecocks have found someone to give one to. According to the Rock Hill Herald, WR Tori Childers (6-5 220), a former football and basketball standout at Rock Hill High, has committed to the Gamecocks and will enroll in school this summer. Childers was in the 2006 recruiting class and was heavily recruited in football and basketball by USC, North Carolina and Tennessee. He signed with North Carolina but didn't qualify and enrolled at Hargrave Prep, VA. He currently attends New Hampton Prep in New Hampshire. Childers becomes the 23rd member of the Gamecock recruiting class.

PalmettoSports.com | South Carolina Recruiting | Phil Kornblut | GoUpstate.com (http://www.goupstate.com/article/20080321/PSPORTS02/927212526/-1/PSPORTS)

Scout.com said that he had a 40" vertical....

lacene

03-21-2008, 03:00 PM

So that gives us:

Jason Barnes (6-4, 201)
Joe Hills (6-4, 202)
D.L. Moore (6-4, 180)
Tori Childers (6-6, 220)

Gives us some length.....although Childers may be a TE candidate. He's listed with a 4.6 40......

SCFan34

03-21-2008, 05:48 PM

Scout shows him as a solid 4.5 40. With Lindsey moving to TE I think we will be fine leaving Childers at WR.

Williams-Brice

03-21-2008, 09:05 PM

From the sounds of it, it looks like D.J. Donley is not going to transfer to USC after all. This is a timely replacement, and another tall WR to add to our stable. Plus, he can play immediately for 2008.....

That's what it looks like to me, too. Y'all are going to have to forgive me. Donley's high school coach was quoted as saying Donley had sent his papers to USC and was officially transferring there. It has become apparent that that did not happen.

raptorcox

03-22-2008, 01:55 AM

March 21, 2008
USC Adds Late Recruit
By Phil Kornblut

USC had some scholarships after National Signing Day in February, and the Gamecocks have found someone to give one to. According to the Rock Hill Herald, WR Tori Childers (6-5 220), a former football and basketball standout at Rock Hill High, has committed to the Gamecocks and will enroll in school this summer. Childers was in the 2006 recruiting class and was heavily recruited in football and basketball by USC, North Carolina and Tennessee. He signed with North Carolina but didn't qualify and enrolled at Hargrave Prep, VA. He currently attends New Hampton Prep in New Hampshire. Childers becomes the 23rd member of the Gamecock recruiting class.

Sounds like another tall WR. We can never have too many jump ball candidates.

Williams-Brice

03-22-2008, 04:17 PM

Carolina has offered Willie Ferrell.

cocky4ever

03-22-2008, 06:43 PM

How cool would it be to have Will Ferrell on our team?

lacene

03-25-2008, 12:04 AM

March 24, 2008

Childers Gets The Green Light

By Phil Kornblut
ATH Tori Childers (6-5 220) said Monday night all the necessary paperwork has been faxed to USC and he expects to sign a letter of intent with the Gamecocks this week. Childers committed to the Gamecocks last week, but before USC could move forward with the process, Childers's transcript and NCAA Clearinghouse approval had to be reviewed. Childers said all of that was sent to USC Monday. "I'm ready to go," Childers said. "It's officially in the books as of today. Because my school was on spring break, the schools couldn't get in touch with each other until today." Childers attends New Hampton Prep in New Hampshire. He was recruited by the Gamecocks as a senior at Rock Hill High in 2006. He said former USC defensive coordinator Ty Nix kept in touch with him, and after he left for Ole Miss, assistant coach Ron Cooper maintained the contact. Childers can play receiver and safety. Last season he caught 40 passes for 750 yards and 11 touchdowns, and he had 70 tackles, one interception and two sacks. Childers also played basketball at New Hampton but said he will concentrate on football at USC.

PalmettoSports.com | South Carolina Recruiting | Phil Kornblut | GoUpstate.com (http://www.goupstate.com/article/20080324/PSPORTS02/144670688/-1/PSPORTS)

lacene

03-25-2008, 12:06 AM

March 23, 2008
Jeffery Takes A Look At Georgia
By Phil Kornblut

DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 211) visited Georgia Saturday for a junior day. He was accompanied by his aunt and a close friend. "It wasn't what I expected it to be," Jeffery said. "They didn't show us too much. They basically told us about everything that goes on at Georgia. They showed us the weight room and the locker room, and that was it. I expected to see the stadium, the football field, a little bit of everything." Jeffery had planned to visit Alabama Monday but said that trip hasn't come together, so he'll attend USC's practice Monday night. He plans to visit Florida later in the week. Right now, Jeffery has USC and Alabama at the top of his list. "I like everything South Carolina is pushing for," he said. "They are trying to be the best in the nation and that starts with academics. I went to Alabama and I loved everything I saw. Plus, they are one of the old SEC powerhouses." Jeffery has offers from USC, Alabama, Clemson, North Carolina, Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Auburn, Oklahoma and Tennessee, and he's getting interest from Georgia and Florida. "If you're not in the SEC, I'm not interested," Jeffery said, "except for Oklahoma."

lacene

03-25-2008, 12:07 AM

March 23, 2008
Sims Takes In USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

ATH David Sims (6-0 208) of Calhoun County was one of three major prospects on hand for USC's spring practice Saturday. The others were his teammate, WR Alshoun Jeffery, and OL Quinton Washington of Timberland. "I got to talk to some of the coaches again and got to watch practice," Sims said. "I looked at all different aspects of the practice. They are telling me they could use me on offense and defense." Sims will visit Georgia Tech this weekend. He is planning to attend Alabama's spring game and he's also planning to visit Virginia Tech. Sims has offers from USC, Alabama, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Tennessee, Georgia Tech, Colorado and NC State. He does not have a favorites list.

lacene

03-25-2008, 12:08 AM

Where is our resident recruiting post-bot, Wynnco.com?? He give out on us?? Wherever you are, Wynnco, we miss ya, bud!!

pc72687

03-25-2008, 04:29 PM

Well, things seem to be going in the right direction so far. Hopefully our current players (ie Garcia) can stop making trouble all the time.

Wynnco.com

03-26-2008, 09:37 AM

March 25, 2008
Two SEC Schools On Top For Ray
By Phil Kornblut

WR Lance Ray (6-3 200) of Havana, FL says USC and Arkansas are his current favorites. Ray said he talks regularly with Gamecock recruiter Shane Beamer. "We're just getting to know each other better," Ray said. "South Carolina and Arkansas are my top choices right now. It's because of the coaches, especially the receivers coach at both schools." Ray also has offers from East Carolina, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Duke, Florida International, Central Florida and Iowa State. He also is hearing from LSU, Florida State, Florida, Georgia Tech and South Florida. Ray attended a junior day at LSU. Last season he attended games at Florida State, Florida, Central Florida and Georgia Tech. Ray can play tight end and receiver. He also plays defensive end. He was all conference, all county and all district last season.

Wynnco.com

03-26-2008, 09:37 AM

March 25, 2008
Louisville Warming To Frost
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Derek Frost (6-1 180) of Richland Northeast has not been offered yet but is getting positive vibes from Louisville. He will visit there April 5th. Frost attended a junior day at East Carolina. He's also had some contact from USC, North Carolina and NC State. Playing quarterback last season, Frost passed for 1366 yards and nine touchdowns and rushed for 463 yards and six scores.

Wynnco.com

03-26-2008, 09:38 AM

March 25, 2008
Bright Owns Two Big Offers
By Phil Kornblut

Florida State and Texas A&M are the first two offers for DB Justin Bright (6-2 185) of Byrnes. Clemson and USC are among several others showing interest. Others are Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, Alabama, Auburn and Georgia. Bright attended USC's junior day and was at Clemson's first spring practice. He was at Georgia last Saturday and is going to Auburn this weekend. He'll visit Florida State April 2-5. Bright said while he was at Clemson he had a chance talk to his recruiter Billy Napier and defensive coordinator Vic Koenning. "They took four safeties last year and will evaluate them and go from there, so I'm not really sure about an offer," Bright said. As for his two offers, Bright is excited to draw that kind of attention from those schools. "Florida State is definitely one of my top schools because they offered me first and I like the state of Florida," he said. "It's a good program with a lot of tradition. And to be able to say my head coach was Bobby Bowden....I like Texas A&M a lot, too. They've always been a real good program. Coach (Mike) Sherman is coming in and they will be able to do a lot more." Last season Bright had 114 tackles, six tackles for loss, nine passes broken up, four interceptions, one fumble return for a touchdown and one pass interception return for a score. Bright plays free and strong safety.

lacene

03-26-2008, 09:48 AM

.......

Good to see you again, Wynnco! I had wondered where you went.

:thumpsup:

SCFan34

03-26-2008, 10:04 PM

I know this is probably me just ranting, BUT!!!!!

I want to see us land Damario Jeffery - WHY you might ask?

We have got to start landing top 5 position/state players <--- top 5 at their position in the state

I've had it with looking at Clemson get top talent EARLY in the cycle and we clean up. Or we lose players to Out of Staters like Georgia, Alabama, and Florida.

Don't get me wrong, I know some kids want to get away from home, and others just have a passion for one school or the next - BUT we have to start moving that dial back our way a little.

Peace

Williams-Brice

03-27-2008, 08:52 AM

We need to get the top player (not players) at their position in South Carolina. If you are trying to get guys in the top 5 at their position in this state, then you are stretching the talent really thin. I'd rather us go after the top 10 guys at a position in Florida than anyone not in the top 2 at their position in South Carolina. Greater Miami has more athletes than the entire state of South Carolina, and if we can infiltrate that area at all, then we won't need to stretch the talent thin here.

Wynnco.com

03-27-2008, 09:16 AM

March 26, 2008
Sanders Getting USC Offer
By Phil Kornblut

WR Rico Sanders (5-11 185) of Byrnes said Wednesday an offer from USC is in his future. "They plan to offer me as soon as I get in touch with coach Lawing," Sanders said. He has offers from Clemson, Georgia, Florida and Florida State while NC State, Maryland and Tennessee are showing interest. Sanders attended Georgia's practice last Saturday. "I like how they were always moving like we do," he said. "They want me down there but they aren't putting too much pressure on me." He also has been to Clemson and USC and plans to visit Florida State over spring break next week. Sanders said Clemson's Billy Napier has been recruiting him the hardest of all the coaches. "I call him every now and then," he said. "He talks to my coaches and tells them I'm a perfect fit for the program. Clemson is still my favorite, but it's not that big of a margin. Clemson shows me the most love. The rest are tied for second."

Wynnco.com

03-27-2008, 09:18 AM

March 26, 2008
Marlboro County Prospects Attend USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

DE Tariq Edwards (6-4 225), TE Tyrell Edwards (6-4 219) and WR Kinsman Thomas (6-3 195) of Marlboro County were among the prospects on hand for USC's spring practice Wednesday night. The Gamecocks have offered Tariq Edwards and Thomas. Edwards and Thomas also have offers from Clemson and Vanderbilt.

Wynnco.com

03-27-2008, 09:18 AM

March 26, 2008
Patterson To Visit USC For Spring Game
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jamal Patterson (6-3 200) of McDonough, GA plans to make USC one of his spring game stops. Patterson said he is going to Georgia's game April 5th, Florida's on the 12th and USC's on the 19th. "I'm hearing a lot from South Carolina," Patterson said. "Coach Gillespie and coach Spurrier Jr. send me e-mails and letters and I call them." Patterson said he also hears from Clemson every day. USC and Clemson are two of his 31 offers. Some of the others are North Carolina, Auburn, Alabama, Stanford, Florida, Florida State and Tennessee. Track has taken up many of his weekends so he hasn't visited many places. He will attend a combine this Saturday at Georgia. Patterson said he doesn't have favorites and feels all the schools are recruiting him about the same.

Wynnco.com

03-27-2008, 09:19 AM

March 26, 2008
Thomas Up To Five Offers
By Phil Kornblut

OL Brandon Thomas (6-4 280) of Dorman now holds offers from USC, Clemson, North Carolina, Maryland and Vanderbilt. And more should be on the way. "So far, everybody that's watched him on film have offered," said Dorman coach Dave Gutshall. "I sent Wake Forest film today." NC State and Georgia Tech also are very interested. Thomas attended a practice at Clemson last week and is thinking about returning to Clemson next week for a tour of campus. He attended junior days at Clemson, USC and North Carolina. He will go to North Carolina's spring game April 5th. Thomas said Clemson likes him as a guard, and USC sees him as a tackle. "I'm wide open," Thomas said. "I grew up as a Tar Heel fan. I'm still liking the Tar Heels but that's not a factor with the decision."

Wynnco.com

03-27-2008, 09:21 AM

March 26, 2008
Kirkpatrick Set For Spring Game Visits
By Phil Kornblut

DB Dre Kirkpatrick (6-3 185) of Gadsden City, AL has 40 offers, including Clemson and USC, and he has not trimmed that list. But he has decided on some spring games he will take in over the next several weeks. Kirkpatrick will go to Auburn this weekend, Georgia April 5th, Alabama April 12th, and he said he probably will go to Tennessee's game. "I'm not thinking that much about recruiting," Kirkpatrick said. "I want to go where I can get playing time. I don't have a favorite. Texas is recruiting me the hardest." Kirkpatrick has been to practices and junior days at Alabama and Auburn. Some of his other offers are Florida, Florida State, North Carolina, Southern Cal, Miami, LSU, West Virginia and Oklahoma. Kirkpatrick said he's getting a lot of mail from Clemson and USC. He does not plan an early decision.

SCFan34

03-27-2008, 10:21 AM

pc72687

03-27-2008, 10:23 AM

Do we have any projected early commitments this year?

Williams-Brice

03-27-2008, 05:44 PM

I meant 1 player in the top 5

I'm not sure I understand you because I thought that's what I was responding to. :laugh:

My point is that if you want 1 guy who is in the top 5 at his position in SC, and you end up with the 5th best guy in his position in SC, then you've gotten a guy who probably can't play in the SEC. Gotta go after the elite in SC and the studs in Florida.

Sorry if I misunderstood you.

Wynnco.com

03-28-2008, 10:13 AM

March 27, 2008
USC Among Offers For Maryland Back
By Phil Kornblut

With 633 rushing yards this season, RB Tavon Austin (5-9 160) of Baltimore will become the all time leading rusher in Maryland prep football history. He rushed for 1701 yards and 32 touchdowns as a sophomore. Last season he totaled 2553 yards and 32 touchdowns. He also caught 17 passes for 335 yards and three scores. And Austin scored touchdowns off a punt return, a kickoff return, a fumble recovery and a pass interception. On defense he had 50 tackles and four interceptions. Austin said Thursday night he's picked up an offer from USC. He also has offers from Penn State, West Virginia, Maryland, Illinois, Virginia, Syracuse, Boston College, Rutgers and Virginia Tech. He went to a junior day at Penn State and plans to visit Virginia, Syracuse and Illinois.

Wynnco.com

03-28-2008, 10:14 AM

March 27, 2008
Play Making LB Has USC Offer
By Phil Kornblut

LB Willie Ferrell (6-2 223) of Tallahassee, FL made tackles all over the field last season totaling 183 hits with seven sacks and three interceptions. That's attracted him a lot of recruiting interest including a recent offer from USC. "I get a couple of letters every day from South Carolina, Ferrell said. "I get emails from coach Beamer. Coach Beamer is trying to build a good relationship." Ferrell also has offers from LSU, Illinois, Minnesota, Maryland, Florida International, South Florida, Central Florida, East Carolina and Florida A&M. He also is hearing from Mississippi State, Miami, Georgia, Tennessee, UCLA, Southern Cal, Ohio State and Florida State. Ferrell attended junior days at Florida State and Florida and is going to LSU for the spring game April 5th. He's not sure about any other visits. He does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

03-29-2008, 10:56 AM

March 28, 2008
Big Georgia Lineman Watches USC
By Phil Kornblut

OL Thomas Vonashek (6-7 275) of Brunswick, GA was on hand Friday afternoon for USC's spring football practice. Vonasheck also plays basketball and is in an AAU tournament in Augusta. Saturday he plans to attend a football combine at Georgia. He has not been offered.

Wynnco.com

03-29-2008, 10:57 AM

March 28, 2008
Bonds Has Five Officials In Mind
By Phil Kornblut

DE Chris Bonds (6-4 270) of Richland Northeast says he probably will take his five official visits this fall to Michigan, Southern Cal, Notre Dame, Alabama and Miami. "I've already visited South Carolina's campus and I'm using the official visits to go to places I normally wouldn't visit," Bonds said. Bonds is in California this week for spring break and has made two trips to see Southern Cal. "It was nice," Bonds said. "You would never know that this nice, small, but secluded campus was here in a city of 18 million, or whatever. It was nice, the weather was perfect." Bonds had a chance to talk with Trojans head coach Pete Carroll on his first visit. "Everyone seemed so excited I was there, they whisked me way so I could tour the campus," he said. "He did sit down and talked to my mom and everybody." Besides his visits to USC, Bonds also has visited Alabama and Virginia.

scfan5338

03-29-2008, 12:03 PM

raptorcox

03-29-2008, 01:00 PM

Williams-Brice

03-29-2008, 01:27 PM

Off subject, but I didn't want to start another thread so...How do you guys think Garcia's suspension will effect the team? He was thought to be the leading candidate to replace Mitchell and Smelley didn't look all that good last year when he did play. I think history repeats itself and we don't have a decent QB for next year unless a miracle happens and Garcia can play again.

If his suspension has a negative effect on this season, then I'll be shocked. If we were all counting on a redshirt freshman to win 9 or 10 games for us this year in this league, then we are all idiots. Smelley was a redshirt freshman last year. He got rattled at Tennessee, and that's just fine with me for a redshirt freshman against his first quality road test in front of 100,000+ people. Everyone wanted to anoint Smelley as the savior of this program until we signed Garcia. People forget that Smelley was the only quarterback Spurrier recruited in 2006. He was hand picked by Spurrier. I'm not going to get overly negative about how a kid performs in his redshirt freshman year. He had very good games against Kentucky and UNC. Garcia was busy running the scout team.

If Garcia is going to be the quarterback he can be, then he's going to have to get his head straight. If he straightens up, then the sky is the limit with his potential, but it wasn't going to happen with him this year regardless. The best thing we can do now is turn all of our attention in recruiting to Aaron Murray, who ironically plays at Garcia's rival high school. That's going to be a Florida/USC battle, and Carolina is in much better shape there than people think. Florida is going to tell him he can be the man after Tebow leaves, but what will happen with Newton? What will happen with Brantley? Carolina has a much better story to tell him, and if they can get him on campus early enough, then this will get very interesting. If they can land Murray, and Garcia somehow straightens out, then we'll have ourselves a stable full of quarterbacks, and everyone will be okay.

I just find it so crazy that people are ready to throw away any thought of Chris Smelley just because of what happened in his first year of real playing time. What did we honestly expect of Stephen Garcia anyway?

pc72687

03-29-2008, 03:09 PM

Is Murray our only serious QB battle?

Williams-Brice

03-29-2008, 03:51 PM

Is Murray our only serious QB battle?

Murray is the only one we've offered. Spurrier won't offer a QB unless he has seen him in person (camp, game, etc.).

FLgamecockJAX

03-29-2008, 04:17 PM

I just find it so crazy that people are ready to throw away any thought of Chris Smelley just because of what happened in his first year of real playing time. What did we honestly expect of Stephen Garcia anyway?

If I remember correctly, I believe it was 2000 when we played UF in the swamp. At the end of the first qtr, we led 21-3. We had Redshirt FS Rex Grossman rattled. To begin the 2nd qtr, Grossman again threw a pass to one of our db's that should have intercepted and returned for 6. Then SOS pulled Grossman, put in Palmer and steamrolled us.

My point is: Grossman receives nothing but praise from SOS. He loved Grossman. But as a redshirt FS in this league, he struggled. If SOS had stayed at UF, Grossman would probably have a Heisman trophy. I'm not comparing Smelley to Grossman, but struggling at times last year does not mean he can't be successful. Especially with SOS as his coach!

cocky4ever

03-29-2008, 04:20 PM

Im with WB on the Garcia/Smelley issue. Last year everyone was ready to hand the reigns over to Smelley after he won so many games as the starter. Now the talk has once again focused on Garcia. Smelley had some pretty good games last season. Plus he was working through an injured shoulder. That had to affect his arm strength. With his brains, an injury-free body, and a decent offensive line who knows how good this kid can be. Im willing to bet he will be one of the best QB's in the SEC this year.

As for Garcia what has he done to show he can be a great QB? Do you know how he has run the scout team? Do you know what kind of potential he has? He's obviously not great at making decisions. He has done absolutely nothing to show me he is ready,willing, and able to lead the South Carolina Gamecocks to victory.

Give me a kid with brains,talent, and maturity any day over a kid with raw talent and nothing else. We'll be just fine with Smelley leading this team instead of Garcia. Actually...I'm willing to say we'll be much better.

raptorcox

03-29-2008, 07:11 PM

Smelley = 7 wins

Williams-Brice

03-29-2008, 08:07 PM

Smelley = 7 wins

Thanks for your insight. Seriously, why do you feel that way? Everyone defending him is giving a reason. All you have said is that he's going to give us 7 wins. That's not giving any of us anything to think about.

lacene

03-30-2008, 03:01 PM

Childers Officially A Gamecock

By Phil Kornblut
ATH Tori Childers (6-5 210) of Rock Hill and New Hampton Prep, NH signed his letter of intent with USC last Thursday morning. He faxed a copy to the USC football office as well as mailed a copy back to Columbia to formalize his earlier commitment to the Gamecocks. Childers said the coaches like him as a defensive back and receiver and expects to end up on offense. “Hopefully I can show (receivers) coach (Steve) Spurrier Jr. that I’m a keeper,” Childers said. He caught 40 passes for 700 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Since he has fully qualified, Childers said the USC admissions people are checking to see if he can check out of the prep school and return to South Carolina and finish up the rest of his courses online.

SCRooster68

03-30-2008, 03:52 PM

^^^^

Great news. This guy wants to be a Gamecock and that is the kind of players we need, not a bunch of wishy washy prima donnas like Donely (sp?).

Williams-Brice

03-30-2008, 04:22 PM

How is Donley a wishy washy prima dona?

This Childers guy wanted to be a Tar Heel, didn't qualify, spent 3 years in prep school, and for all we know, signed with us because we're the only school that went after him at this point.

I don't have a problem with what either one of these kids are doing. I just kinda find it funny when these prep school things go our way. Ajiboye signed with VT, went to prep school, and ended up at USC. Geathers signed with UGA, went to prep school, and ended up at USC. Childers signed with UNC, went to prep school, and ended up at USC. Those guys aren't wishy washy. Alternatively, if a kid signed with USC, went to prep school, and signed with someone else, then he's be a wishy washy prima dona. To the same token, Donley is trying to do what's best for him, and people are ragging him for it. The only person in the wrong here is Donley's high school coach, who never should have gone public and said that DJ had faxed in all of his paperwork to USC, which never happened.

Wynnco.com

03-31-2008, 09:29 AM

March 30, 2008
USC Checking On Jersey Athlete
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Duron Harmon (6-2 192) of Camden-Wyoming, DE plays defensive back, running back, receiver and special teams. Last season he rushed for 701 yards and 12 touchdons, caught 15 passes for 212 yards, made 43 tackles and intercepted two passes. Harmon has offers from Pittsburgh, Stanford and Rutgers. USC is showing interest with mail and has requested film from his coach which he is sending this week. Harmon visited Virginia last week and is going to Rutgers this Saturday. He is also hearing from Notre Dame, Connecticut, Vanderbilt, Michigan State, Purdue and Penn State. He does not have favorites. "I'm just playing it out until its time to make a decision," Harmon said.

FLgamecockJAX

03-31-2008, 06:54 PM

Williams-Brice

03-31-2008, 07:01 PM

W-B,

Have you heard anything about a possible transfer from RB James Montgomery?

He is with the Cal Bears. He signed with the class of 2006. I'm hearing rumors about a transfer and that he is down to 3 teams: Florida, South Carolina and Washington State. If this is true, I wonder how we got in on this. If anyone could find out, I thought you would be the guy.

Thanks in advance!

Yep, I started a thread on him a few hours ago, and Morris provided a little better insight than I can. There seems to be some conflicting info out there, but right now, he's going to choose between USC, Florida, and Washington State.

palmettocock

03-31-2008, 10:28 PM

W-B,

Have you heard anything about a possible transfer from RB James Montgomery?

He is with the Cal Bears. He signed with the class of 2006. I'm hearing rumors about a transfer and that he is down to 3 teams: Florida, South Carolina and Washington State. If this is true, I wonder how we got in on this. If anyone could find out, I thought you would be the guy.

Thanks in advance!

Basically he wanted out of Berkeley, and is looking hard at Florida and SC. They're saying he's more interested in Florida, but doesn't think they'll take him, so we have a pretty good chance at landing him.

Wynnco.com

04-01-2008, 11:20 AM

March 31, 2008
Thomas Gets Good Look At Gamecocks
By Phil Kornblut

WR Kinsman Thomas (6-3 195) of Marlboro County took in USC's practice last Wednesday and got the chance to talk with receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. and recruiter David Reaves. "They were asking me if I liked what I was seeing and they moved some of their receivers to defense," Thomas said. "They talked about how I would fit in good with the program." Thomas also has been to Clemson and Virginia. He has offers from USC, Clemson and Vanderbilt. He's also getting interest from Southern Cal, Alabama, Arkansas, Virginia Tech, Duke, Kentucky and others. He does not have a favorite. "I'm just waiting to see right now," Thomas said. "I'm just waiting to see."

Wynnco.com

04-01-2008, 11:21 AM

March 31, 2008
Cal Transfer Looking At USC
By Phil Kornblut

Former Parade All American RB James Montgomery (5-9 205), who received a release from his scholarship by Cal March 17th, is considering USC as his possible new school. Montgomery visited Columbia last week and attended a USC spring practice. He visited Florida Friday and watched the Gators practice. He's a friend of Florida receiver Carl Moore. He also is reportedly interested in Washington, Oregon and Fresno State. Montgomery originally committed to Washington out of high school. Montgomery is a native of Rancho Cordova, CA who rushed for over 4900 yards and 82 touchdowns in his high school career. He redshirted his freshman season at Cal in 2006 and was the #2 tailback rushing for 171 yards and two touchdowns in 13 games. He was coming off minor knee surgery and was listed as the starter at tailback going into spring practice, but reportedly never was happy at Cal. Montgomery told the Washington fan site RealDog.com "that it never felt right, really. Cal was never my first choice. I didn't feel (Cal) was a (football) school that had a lot of tradition. They were ranked sixth in the country and yet couldn't sell out that week's game."

Wynnco.com

04-01-2008, 11:23 AM

March 31, 2008
USC Rolls Dice With Vegas Standout
By Phil Kornblut

DE Justin Chaisson (6-5 265) of Las Vegas landed an offer from USC last week. Chaisson said he and recruiter John Hunt have been exchanging email, while his mother has talked directly to the Gamecock recruiter. Chaisson also has offers from Florida, Oklahoma, LSU, UCLA, Oregon, California, Arizona, Arizona State, Nebraska, UNLV, Iowa, Colorado and Nevada. "Everything is wide open," Chaisson said. "I'm taking my time with it and giving everyone a fair shot." Chaisson will visit Oklahoma April 2nd and he plans to visit some of the California schools this summer. He will make his decision after the season. Last season Chaisson had 105 tackles and 23 sacks.

pc72687

04-02-2008, 12:56 PM

Montgomery is an interesting development. I'm interested to see how it pans out.

On the Smelley topic, Smelley has shown what he can do in a game, Garcia is an unknown. If I remember right our last 4-star elite 11 QB wasn't all that spectacular. I'm not throwing the towel in on Garcia but Smelley as our QB does not mean were gonna lose right out. Remember he did beat out a 5th year senior to start for some games.

Wynnco.com

04-03-2008, 10:18 AM

April 02, 2008
Donley Headed To The Big Ten
WR DJ Donley (6-4 203) has decided to transfer from Georgia Tech, and he plans to enroll at Purdue according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Donley's high school coach confirmed the decision for the paper. Donley originally appeared headed to USC after first deciding to transfer following the coaching change at Tech. He then reconsidered and met with new Tech coach Paul Johnson, but in the end concluded Johnson's offense was not the fit for him.

Wynnco.com

04-03-2008, 10:18 AM

April 02, 2008
Upstate Lineman Takes In USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

OL Tyler Phillips of Boiling Springs made an unofficial visit to USC Wednesday night to watch the Gamecocks practice. Phillips has not been offered by USC.

Wynnco.com

04-03-2008, 10:19 AM

April 02, 2008
Cunningham To Be At USC Saturday
By Phil Kornblut

TE Justice Cunningham (6-3 232) of Central plans to attend USC's scrimmage Saturday, and he will be there with the thought of committing lurking in his brain. "It's probably a good chance (of a commitment), not 100%, but pretty good," Cunningham said. "I like (tight end) coach Ray (Rychleski) a lot. I like how he gets things done. I like how they are trying to rebuild. If I feel like it's time to make the decision, then I'll probably go ahead and do it." Cunningham said NC State is running just behind the Gamecocks right now. He visited Georgia last weekend and has also been to Clemson, but USC is his only offer. He talked with USC recruiter David Reaves Tuesday. Cunningham said his mother and a friend will join him on the visit.

Wynnco.com

04-03-2008, 10:19 AM

April 02, 2008
USC Offers Indiana Quarterback
By Phil Kornblut

USC made an offer earlier this week to QB Morgan Newton (6-5 215) of Carmel, IN who spoke with head coach Steve Spurrier and recruiter David Reaves. "Obviously with Spurrier's history, he's had a lot of success," Newton said. "Just being able to listen to him and the knowledge he has, I thought it was a good thing. I'm already somewhat familiar (with the offense) because my high school coach runs part of what Spurrier does in our offense. As for coach Spurrier, the offense he runs is a good offense for someone who wants to go to the next level. There's a lot of pro-style things." Clemson also has offered Newton along with Indiana, Purdue, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Louisville, Kentucky and Virginia. He's made a number of unofficial visits and plans to see USC at some point. "I know I will definitely get down to South Carolina to see the campus and all of the coaches," he said. "I havfe an AAU tournament this summer at the Peach Jam in North Augusta. On the way down there or on the way back we'll probably stop through the campus. Possibly next week, depending on how travel or time is, we might stop down there during spring break." Newton said he does not have a favorite. A two way threat, he passed for 1900 yards and rushed for 900 yards last season.

scfan5338

04-03-2008, 02:24 PM

What do you guys think about the WR's switching postions to safety? Do you think this will hurt us in the future? We signed a lot of guys at WR and it seems like they are either busts or they switch positions. McKinley ofcourse was a QB out of HS. Whitlock, a DB will probably be a WR - fair assessment? I hope Barnes and Culliver can turn into something special at safety, we got that positions covered for the next couple of years. Our secondary will be just plain nasty, perhaps best in the SEC.

JerryBeeds

04-03-2008, 02:27 PM

Barnes and Culliver were both safeties in high school so they are just switching back to their natural positions.

lacene

04-03-2008, 05:15 PM

Barnes and Culliver were both safeties in high school so they are just switching back to their natural positions.

This is correct...both were highly regarded and rated players, but their high marks were for primarily as defensive backs, and not as WR's. Culliver was given the chance by Spurrier to try the WR position: I think we were the only school that gave him such an opportunity, which is why he chose us. My understanding was Culliver had difficulty as a true freshman learning the routes, and being able to position himself so that he could catch deep passes coming from behind him (as he raced down the field) and over his shoulder. Again, this is what I have read at several USC sites, and may not be true, but it's my understanding that Culliver himself asked to be moved to D, and was not pressured by the coaches to move.

As far as Mark Barnes, I was surprised last season when he was moved to O to try out as a WR, because I had not heard anything prior that he would get such consideration. In any case, both Culliver and Barnes are now at their natural positions, and bolster a secondary that at one time had rather thin depth beyond great players in Captain, Carlos, Cook and Stewart (remember last season against Clemson?), but now has all those with Carlos the only starting senior, plus Auguste, Allen, Culliver and Barnes, in addition to Stoney, Spearman, and the Williams twins. We are loaded at DB now, and shouldn't see players missing PT anymore because of cramping from having to stay on the field too long.....

Wynnco.com

04-04-2008, 09:47 AM

April 03, 2008
Florida Receiver Big On USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR Nukeese Richardson (5-10 170) of Pahokee, FL plans to attend USC's spring game April 19th, and he currently has the Gamecocks #1 on his list. "It's a good chance I might end up at South Carolina," Richardson said. "They have a good relationship between the players and the coaches. Steve Spurrier has a history about his offense." Richardson said Southern Cal is second to the Gamecocks, and he also has Michigan, Tennessee and Rutgers in his top five. "I want to take all of my visits," he said. "I want to see what every school has to offer before I commit." Richardson talked with his Gamecock recruiter Robert Gillespie Thursday. "We just talked about me coming up there and watching the spring game." Richardson has been to USC in the past. And he's been to South Florida and Florida for junior days. Last season Richardson caught 26 passes for 500 yards and eight touchdowns. He also plays quarterback, and as a cornerback he had four interceptions.

Wynnco.com

04-05-2008, 11:31 AM

April 04, 2008
Florida Lineman Watches USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

OL Andrew Carter (6-6 265) of Tallahassee spent Friday at USC and will be on hand Saturday for the scrimmage at Williams-Brice Stadium. "I really liked it," Carter said. "I'll get to see more of the coaches and facilities tomorrow. I met with coach Spurrier in his office. It's been a really nice visit. I talked with coach (Shane) Beamer a lot. He gave us a mini-tour." Carter also has visited Georgia and will go to Florida April 12th. And, of course, he's been over to Florida State several times. He has offers from USC, Florida State, Miami, Louisville, Central Florida, South Florida and East Carolina. Georgia and Auburn also are showing interest. He does not claim a favorite.

lacene

04-05-2008, 12:08 PM

FLgamecockJAX

04-05-2008, 05:06 PM

Wynnco.com

04-06-2008, 11:28 AM

April 05, 2008
Cunningham Delays Possible USC Pledge
By Phil Kornblut

TE Justice Cunningham (6-3 232) of Central did not make it to Columbia Saturday because the USC scrimmage was rained out. Cunningham has been considering committing to the Gamecocks and might have done it Saturday. He's still considering making the pledge, and he might do so this coming week. "I'll talk with coach Reaves later this week, probably Tuesday," Cunningham said. "It's a good chance I'll commit, but I really don't know yet." USC is Cunningham's only official offer. He also has been hearing from Clemson, NC State, Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee and Maryland.

Wynnco.com

04-07-2008, 08:54 AM

April 06, 2008
Minter Headed To The SEC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Kevin Minter (6-1 240) of Suwanee, GA committed to LSU Saturday while in Baton Rouge for the spring game. "It was the coaches and the atmosphere," Minter said about the major reasons for picking LSU. USC was among his other offers.

Wynnco.com

04-07-2008, 08:55 AM

April 06, 2008
Montgomery Taking Respite From Recruiting
By Phil Kornblut

DE Sam Montgomery (6-5 240) of Greenwood is a wanted man these days, and not just by college recruiters. Girls have interrupted his recruiting activities. Montgomery said a prom last weekend and a prom this coming weekend forced him to curtail recruiting for a couple of weeks, but things will pick back up soon. He plans to take visits to Florida State, NC State and North Carolina in a few weeks. He visited NC State a couple of weeks ago but that trip was cut short because one of his coaches had to leave early. He also has been to USC and Clemson multiple times. Montgomery now has offers from USC, Clemson, Alabama, North Carolina, NC State, Maryland, Southern Cal, Miami, LSU, Auburn, Illinois, Tennessee, Duke, Florida State, Florida and Vanderbilt. Montgomery was chosen for the Under Armour All America Game, and he said he and Clemson commitment offensive lineman JK Jay have already made arraingements to be roomates. Montgomery said he and Jay are very good friends.

Wynnco.com

04-08-2008, 09:03 AM

April 07, 2008
Cunningham Watches USC Scrimmage
By Phil Kornblut

TE Justice Cunningham (6-3 232) of Central attended USC's scrimmage Monday night at Williams-Brice Stadium. Cunningham has been on the verge of making a commitment to the Gamecocks but did not do so Monday night. "I delayed it," he said. "They want to meet my mom at the spring game in two weeks. I talked to coach Reaves, coach Lawing and coach Rychleski." Cunningham said he was invited to Clemson for their spring game this Saturday but can't make it because of his prom. USC is his only offer at this point. He's also had interest in NC State.

Wynnco.com

04-08-2008, 09:05 AM

April 07, 2008
Jeffery Watches Gamecocks Work
By Phil Kornblut

DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 211) of Columbia High was in attendance for the USC scrimmage Monday night at Williams-Brice Stadium. And he said he focused on what the defense was doing, especially the secondary. "I like to look at the schemes," Jeffery said. "I could care less what the players do." Jeffery has made it clear that he plans to sign with an SEC school. Right now USC and Alabama are his top two, and they are even. "The only thing that will affect me (regarding USC) is the record," he said. "I really don't want to stay in state, but coach Reaves is doing a good job keeping South Carolina at the top." Jeffery said he talked with Reaves and safeties coach Ron Cooper while at the practice. Jeffery said he will be at USC's spring game April 19th. He also plans to visit Auburn in a few weeks. Jeffery's teammate, USC commitment ATH Chris Payne, also attended the scrimmage. Jeffery said once he got home to talked on the phone with South Pointe ATH Stephon Gilmore who attended Clemson's scrimmage Monday. "He seems to be open right now," Jeffery said. "He will be at South Carolina's practice Saturday." Jeffery also talked Monday night with Greenwood DE Sam Montgomery and LB Hawatha Bell of Matthews, NC. Bell has publicly stated a lean to USC but plans to visit Virginia Tech in the next couple of weeks before finalizing a decision.

Wynnco.com

04-08-2008, 04:04 PM

April 08, 2008
Montgomery Staying Out West
By Phil Kornblut

Former Cal RB James Montgomery (5-9 205), who had considered USC among his possible new schools, will stay in the PAC-10 and enroll at Washington State his former high school coach told the Sacramento Bee. Montgomery visited USC and Florida in March but decided to stay on the West Coast. Montgomery is a native of Ranch Cordova, CA which is near Sacramento.

pc72687

04-08-2008, 08:22 PM

Jeffory seems Alabama's to lose.

Williams-Brice

04-08-2008, 08:46 PM

Not the case at all. Carolina is in fantastic shape.

Wynnco.com

04-09-2008, 09:27 AM

April 08, 2008
Frost Gets Look At Cardinals
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Derek Frost (6-1 180) of Richland Northeast made an unofficial visit to Louisville last weekend with his mother. "It went good," Frost said. "They're looking at me as a quarterback." Frost has not been offered. He's also been hearing some from USC, East Carolina and Army. He has been over to USC to watch some practices this spring.

Wynnco.com

04-09-2008, 09:27 AM

April 08, 2008
Coffee Going Slow With Recruiting
By Phil Kornblut

LB Matt Coffee (5-11 210) of Fort Walton Beach, FL has not taken any visits to any schools for any reasons so far, and he's got nothing planned for the immediate future. He has offers from USC, Ole Miss and NC State, and he's also hearing from Clemson, Florida, Florida State and Alabama. Coffee said he talked recently with USC recruiter Shane Beamer and will try to visit USC this summer. He also talked recently with Clemson recruiter Vic Koenning and was told the Tigers will be down to scout him this spring. Coffee said he does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

04-09-2008, 09:28 AM

April 08, 2008
Florida Back Targeted By USC, Klimp Sin
By Phil Kornblut

RB Jaamal Berry (5-11 190) of Miami has a number of schools desiring his talents. Two of his offers are USC and Clemson. "Coach Gillespie (USC) said he'd love to coach a back like me," Berry said. "He said I'd be a perfect fit and I'd be one of the best backs they've had there. Clemson seems like they like me a lot. They said the whole coaching staff is excited about me and can't wait to see me." Berry said he wants to visit USC and Clemson as soon as he can. He has not been to see any schools yet, but he might go to Florida State this Friday. He is going to Florida's spring game Saturday. And he's going to Ohio State April 19th for the spring game. He has offers from USC, Clemson, Florida, Florida State, Auburn, Ole Miss, Florida International, Minnesota, Rutgers, Tennessee and West Virginia. He's expecting an offer from Ohio State this week. He's also hearing from MIchigan, Southern Cal and Oklahoma. "All the schools are equal," Berry said. Berry, who reported a 4.3 forty, rushed for 1033 yards and 14 touchdowns last season.

JerryBeeds

04-09-2008, 04:26 PM

We may be getting a commitment from 4-star LB Hawatha Bell pretty soon.

DELTOR

04-09-2008, 05:01 PM

We may be getting a commitment from 4-star LB Hawatha Bell pretty soon.

I was just about to make mention of this. I feel good about it, after reading some of his comments. You never know, though.....

scfan5338

04-09-2008, 05:10 PM

We may be getting a commitment from 4-star LB Hawatha Bell pretty soon.

We need all the LB's we can get!

Wynnco.com

04-10-2008, 09:21 AM

We may be getting a commitment from 4-star LB Hawatha Bell pretty soon.

That would be great! I would like to see a couple of guys drop our way and prime the pump alittle.

Wynnco.com

04-10-2008, 09:23 AM

April 09, 2008
Cross, Bonds Watch USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

DE Izaan Cross (6-4 250) of Flowery Branch, GA and Richland Northeast DE Chris Bonds were among the prospects in attendance for USC's spring practice workout Wednesday night. Cross has offers from USC, Oklahoma, Central Florida and Georgia Tech. This was his first visit to USC. Bonds has made many trips to see the Gamecocks. He has 20 offers and recently visited Southern Cal while on vacation in the Los Angeles area. He also has visited Alabama and Virginia.

Three players form AC Flora High School also took in the practice...LB Conor Hozey (6-1 225), OL Trip Watson (6-4 270) and LB Brandon Bates. Hozey said his recruiter, David Reaves, encoured them to attend the USC seven on seven and one day camps. Hozey is getting strong interest from Columbia. He's also hearing from Western Michigan and Marshall. He also has visited Maryland and North Carolina and will try to visit Vanderbilt this summer.

A fourth prospect at AC Flora is DL Darius Hammonds (6-6 260). He plans to attend USC's practice Friday. He's also had some contact from Clemson, Western Kentucky and Western Michigan.

Wynnco.com

04-10-2008, 09:25 AM

April 09, 2008
Newton Makes Swing Thru State
By Phil Kornblut

QB Morgan Newton (6-5 215) of Carmel, IN is one spring break this week and is visiting as many places as he can get to with his parents and two younger brothers. He was at Clemson Tuesday. "The visit with Clemson was great," Newton said. "They were very hospitable people. Clemson is one of those towns where all that's there is the college. I met with coach Bowden for about 25-30 minutes. He's a great guy. I got to sit in a quarterbacks meeting for a little bit and see what coach Spence does. I talked to all of the coches, and I talked to Andre Branch." Wednesday, the Newtons made their way down to USC and spent the day with the Gamecocks. "I met with coach Spurrier, coach Spurrier Jr. and coach Reaves for about 20-25 minutes," Newton said. "We took a brief tour with Raymond Harrison of the academic area, and we took a brief tour of campus. I met the strength and conditioning coach. Everything went well. It was great, what we saw. It was nice to be down here with warm weather. Sitting and talking with coach Spurrier, there was a warm feeling to those coaches. And we got some chicken from Bernies. We had a good time." Newton and his family left USC Wednesday afternoon before practice and drove to Raleigh. They plan to visit NC State Thursday. And Friday Newton will be in Hampton, VA for the Boo Williams AAU basketball tournament. Newton also has visited Kentucky and Tennessee and might visit Virginia. He also has offers from Indiana, Purdue, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Louisville and Penn State. He does not have any favorites. "I'm just getting out to see some places," he said. "In May, we'll see who's really interested and we'll narrow it down from there." And Newton believes Bowden and Spurrier are really interested. "By actually sitting down and talking to both of them, you could tell there's a genuine interest," Newton said.

raptorcox

04-10-2008, 04:05 PM

I was just about to make mention of this. I feel good about it, after reading some of his comments. You never know, though.....

Does anyone have any of these quotes to share? I looked back a page and see absolutely no mention of the guy until we get a statement that he could be about to commit to us.

lacene

04-10-2008, 04:42 PM

Does anyone have any of these quotes to share? I looked back a page and see absolutely no mention of the guy until we get a statement that he could be about to commit to us.

Rivals (Gamecockcentral) has an article up about him from Tony Morrell, but I'm not a subscriber:

http://southcarolina.rivals.com/barrier_noentry.asp?sid=&script=content.asp&cid=795454&fid=&tid=&mid=&rid=

pc72687

04-10-2008, 06:00 PM

I guess you know more about the situation then me W-B (Jeffory). But by his comments and actions he seems a strong lean to the tide.

Williams-Brice

04-10-2008, 06:33 PM

I guess you know more about the situation then me W-B (Jeffory). But by his comments and actions he seems a strong lean to the tide.

I can see that in his comments. It's just not the case. I wouldn't worry about him right now.

Good call up there about Bell, guys. He is going to make a commitment after he visits VT in the near future, but he has made it no secret that USC is his clear leader.

Also, Carolina now leads for DE Izaan Cross, who has offers from schools like Oklahoma and Georgia Tech.

FLgamecockJAX

04-10-2008, 09:40 PM

Not the case at all. Carolina is in fantastic shape.

W-B,

How about Chris Bonds? He seems to like the attention from the other schools, but are we in fantastic shape with Chris Bonds also?

Also, do you think we are in better shape with Aaron Murray or Morgan Newton? I'm asking about these two since they are our only offers at QB. That could change, but which one of these 2 are we the strongest with?

JerryBeeds

04-11-2008, 06:14 AM

Does anyone have any of these quotes to share? I looked back a page and see absolutely no mention of the guy until we get a statement that he could be about to commit to us.

I made it up so you would think I'm cool.:rolleyes:

DELTOR

04-11-2008, 06:56 AM

Hawatha Bell on USC:

"It's mainly South Carolina and Virginia Tech right now," the 6-foot-1, 230-pound Bell said. "UNC is in there a little bit, too."

"I just get that whole comfortable feeling when I'm there," he said. "I've talked to a lot of guys who say they got homesick when they went to a certain school, and I know that won't happen if I go there because it feels like home. They also need some linebackers, so it looks like a real good fit."

pc72687

04-11-2008, 07:18 AM

Bell sounds pretty good. Anytime someone calls your school "home" you have to feel pretty good.

Wynnco.com

04-11-2008, 09:20 AM

April 10, 2008
Florida Linebacker Plans to See USC Spring Game
By Phil Kornblut

LB Jon Bostic (6-2 225) of Wellington, FL has offers from USC, LSU, Miami, Central Florida, NC State, Purdue and Florida International. He attended a junior day t UCF and was at LSU's spring game last weekend. He visited Florida last season. He will go to Florida's spring game Saturday and he plans to attend USC's spring game April 19th. "My dad wants me to see all of the colleges," Bostic said. "I know of coach Spurrier's reputation. He likes to win." Bostic said he does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

04-11-2008, 09:21 AM

April 10, 2008
Cross On Hand For USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

DE Izaan Cross (6-5 250) made his first ever visit to USC Wednesday for the Gamecocks' spring practice. "It was a good visit overall," Cross said. "The drive wasn't too long. The only thing I didn't like was we had to stop for a train for about 30 minutes. We met up with coach Beamer. He introduced me to all the coaches. He showed me around the area. I met coach Spurrier. I saw how the defense worked and met with the line coach. It seemed like they were having fun, which I like to see. The defensive line coach said to look at the defensive ends and that I would fit right in." Cross also has been to Georgia Tech for a spring practice. He said he probably would go to Florida this weekend for their spring game. Cross has offers from USC, Oklahoma, Central Florida, Georgia Tech and Wake Forest. He also has heard from Florida, Georgia, Mississippi State, Oklahoma State, Notre Dame, LSU and Louisville. "My top group is all the schools that have offered," he said. "I'm open to all of them." He will not make an early decision.

Wynnco.com

04-11-2008, 12:47 PM

April 11, 2008
Calhoun County Trio To Visit Alabama
By Phil Kornblut

WR Alshon Jeffery (6-3 217), ATH David Sims (6-0 208) and rising junior OL Eric Mack of Calhoun County will visit Alabama Saturday for the Crimson Tide spring game. Jeffery and Sims have been offered by Alabama. Jeffery also has offers from USC, Southern Cal, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee and NC State. Sims also has offers from Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Tennessee, Colorado and NC State. He's favoring Georgia Tech which is recruiting him strictly as an option quarterback. And Mack has an early offer from North Carolina. All three are expected to attend USC's spring game next weekend.

Wynnco.com

04-14-2008, 09:29 AM

April 13, 2008
USC Checking Local Linebacker
By Phil Kornblut

LB Brandon Bates (6-3 210) of AC Flora attended a USC practice last week with some teammates and is expected to be evaluated by the Gamecocks. He's not a widely known prospect, but his coach expects that to change. "He's real raw," coach Robin Bacon said. "He's agile, very athletic, and has good hands. He'll play weak linebacker in college." Bacon said Bates could grow to be 240-250 pounds. Last season Bates had 63 tackles with seven for loss and three sacks. He attended the Nike combine in Charlotte and will attend another Nike combine at North Carolina May 2nd.

Wynnco.com

04-16-2008, 09:44 AM

April 15, 2008
Richardson Excited About Upcoming USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

WR Nukeese Richardson (5-10 170) of Pahokee, FL has been to USC for camps but has not seen game action inside Williams-Brice Stadium. That will change Saturday when he attends the spring game. "I'll be expecting to see a good game and the atmosphere for the game," Richardson said. The Gamecocks currently lead for the speedster ahead of Southern Cal, Georgia, Tennessee and Florida. "I won't make a commitment this weekend," Richardson said. "Right now I'm in the process of getting to know every school and I want to take all of my visits." He does not have any other visits planned after the USC trip which he will take with his older brother. They will be in Columbia Friday thru Sunday. Richardson went to Florida and South Florida for junior day. He talked to his USC recruiter Robert Gillespie Monday night. Richardson also has offers from Miami, Wisconsin, Michigan, Rutgers, West Virginia and Minnesota.

Wynnco.com

04-16-2008, 09:45 AM

April 15, 2008
Linebacker Favoring USC, Hokies
By Phil Kornblut

LB Hawatha Bell (6-1 230) of Matthews, NC says USC and Virginia Tech are his current favorites with the Gamecocks out front because he's visited there. He has yet to see Virginia Tech and will set up an official visit as soon as he talks with his recruiter. Bell attended a junior day at USC. "I felt comfortable there," Bell said of his USC visit. "And I like the new building for academics." Bell is not sure he can make it to USC's spring game Saturday because of the Shrine Bowl combine at his school. "I might make it late," he said. He last talked to his Gamecock recruiter Ray Rychleski last week. Bell also has offers from Wake Forest, Miami, Illinois, Maryland, Duke, East Carolina and North Carolina. He also visited Wake Forest for a junior day. Last season he had 125 tackles with three sacks and one fumble recovery for a touchdown.

Wynnco.com

04-16-2008, 09:46 AM

April 15, 2008
USC Offers Northeast Receiver
By Phil Kornblut

USC has joined the long list of offers for WR Justin Brown (6-4 210) of Wilmington, DE. He also has offers from Penn State, Pittsburgh, North Carolina, NC State, Virginia Tech, Maryland, Iowa, Rutgers, LSU, Oregon, Purdue, Kentucky and Vanderbilt. Brown went to junior day at Penn State, Rutgers and Maryland. He's involved with baseball right now and won't make any more visits until the summer. He has family in Henderson, NC and plans to visit the Carolinas schools this summer. "I'm very interested in South Carolina," Brown said. "They run the spread offense and I like that a whole lot." Brown also plays safety but said he will be a receiver in college. He does not have any favorites. Last season he caught 19 passes for 556 yards and 8 touchdowns. On defense, Brown totaled 40 tackles and 3 interceptions.

Wynnco.com

04-17-2008, 09:28 AM

April 16, 2008
Four From Greenwood Coming To USC Game
By Phil Kornblut

Greenwood DB DJ Swearinger (6-1 205) says he and three teammates will attend USC's spring game Saturday. Swearinger said he'll be joined by DE Sam Montgomery, rising junior DL Kelcy Quarles, who has an offer from USC and is the son of former Gamecock Buddy Quarles, and Devin Partlow. USC has not offered Swearinger. "They've been telling me to come to camp," Swearinger said. He has offers from Vanderbilt, Illinois, Maryland, Auburn and NC State. He's also hearing from Penn State and Duke. Swearinger said Auburn and NC State are showing the strongest interest, and Vanderbilt has told him he's their top safety prospect.

Wynnco.com

04-17-2008, 09:30 AM

April 16, 2008
Chisolm Has Visits Planned
By Phil Kornblut

DE Duane Chisolm (6-4 245) of Beaufort will be checking out three schools in the coming weeks. Saturday he's going to Tennessee for both a track meet and a football visit. On April 26th, he will visit Clemson. And he plans to get in a visit to USC. Chisolm talked to Gamecock recruiter Shane Beamer Wednesday night. "We talked a little bit more about the program and how I'm doing in school and in track," Chisolm said. "He said he'll be coming down for my spring practice." Chisolm said his favorite four right now are USC, Clemson, Tennesee and Alabama. "I'm looking for a good football atmosphere, a program where I'm comfortable, and where I can get a good business degree," he said. Chisolm also has offers from Kentucky, NC State, Maryland and West Virginia. He's also getting interest from North Carolina, Michigan, Wake Forest, Duke and Stanford. Another prospect to watch at Beaufort is DB Jimmy Legree (6-1 175).

DELTOR

04-17-2008, 05:00 PM

For anyone who is going to the game this weekend, let's be on our A-game for these recruits coming in. For anyone not going to the game, you should go.

SCFan34

04-17-2008, 09:33 PM

I will be there with the whole family in toe. GO COCKS

Williams-Brice

04-17-2008, 10:14 PM

BIG recruiting weekend. Many A-list prospects will be here.

Gamecocks4Life

04-18-2008, 07:57 AM

WB, can you give me a list of the prospects that's going to be at the spring game?

Wynnco.com

04-18-2008, 10:37 AM

April 17, 2008
New Offer For Jeffrey
By Phil Kornblut

WR Alshon Jeffrey (6-3 217) of Calhoun County has picked up an offer from Florida. That's his fifth SEC offer and eighth overall. He also has offers from USC, Alabama, Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Southern Cal and NC State. He has visited USC, Alabama and Tennessee.

Wynnco.com

04-18-2008, 10:38 AM

April 17, 2008
Cunningham Commitment Watch On
By Phil Kornblut

As he has planned for weeks, TE Justice Cunningham (6-3 232) of Central will be at USC with his mother Saturday for the spring game. USC remains his only offer and he continues to favor the Gamecocks. Cunningham has indicated for weeks a commitment to USC is imminent, and Saturday will give him another opportunity to make the pledge in person. "I really don't know," Cunningham said. "I kind of want to, but I'm thinking about weighing my options a little bit. They are saying they want me." Cunningham said he'll give his USC recruiter David Reaves a call on Friday to firm up his Saturday visit. Cunningham has been to USC several times. He's also visited Clemson, NC State and Georgia.

Williams-Brice

04-19-2008, 09:47 AM

WB, can you give me a list of the prospects that's going to be at the spring game?

Sorry, guys. I didn't see this request until this morning. I made this list in haste, so I apologize if I missed someone.

Chris Bonds
Justice Cunningham (Could commit)
Rob Henry, QB Ocala, FL, Trinity Catholic
DaMario Jeffery
Sam Montgomery
Jamal Patterson (Just found out that we lead for him)
Chris Payne (committed)
Ashton Ornelas, FB/DE (Wade Hampton High School; don't know anything about him)
Dale Peterman, CB Youngstown (Could commit)
Ronwynn Pritchett, OL/DE/LS (From Virginia; don't know much about him yet)
NuKeese Richardson (Some people in his corner want him to commit this weekend)
Jarrett Swaby, CB (Miami prospect; don't know anything about him)
D.J. Swearinger, ATH, Greenwoood (We probably won't offer)
Kinsman Thomas, ATH, Marlboro County (Was recently offered as a WR)
Adrian Williams WR Jacksonville (Fla.) First Coast
Austin Williams WR/DB Jacksonville (Fla.) First Coast
Eric Williams WR Bradenton (Fla.) Manatee

Kelcy Quarles DT Greenwood (2010 prospect; likely the top DL prospect in SC for next year; would be shocked if he did not commit sooner than later to Carolina; his dad played here).

Wynnco.com

04-19-2008, 12:42 PM

April 18, 2008
Thomas To Visit USC, Edwards Brothers To VT
By Phil Kornblut

Marlboro County's three major prospects will be at different spring games this weekend. WR Kinsman Thomas (6-3 195) will be at the USC game while DE Tariq Edwards (6-4 225) and his brother TE Tyrell Edwards (6-4 219) will be at Virginia Tech. Thomas now has offers from USC, Clemson, Vanderbilt, Illinois and NC State. Duke appears close to offering, and he's also hearing from Southern Cal and Georgia Tech. Thomas said his parents will join him on the visit. He does not claim a favorite. Tariq Edwards now has offers from USC, Clemson, Vanderbilt, Maryland and NC State. Duke is close to making him an offer. And Tyrell Edwards has offers from Illinois and Vanderbilt, and Duke is close to offering. Also going to the USC game will be Marlboro County rising junior QB Elliott Alford (6-2 185). Last season he passed for 2100 yards and 21 touchdowns.

Wynnco.com

04-19-2008, 12:43 PM

April 18, 2008
Florida QB Visiting USC This Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

QB Rob Henry (6-2 198) of Ocala, FL will make an unofficial visit to USC this weekend for the spring game. Henry will be joined on the trip by his grandfather. Henry has not been offered by the Gamecocks but has been in touch with recruiter Steve Spurrier Jr. "I've gotten three handwritten letters from him, so I'll find out more this weekend about his interest," Henry said. Henry said he has verbal offers from Louisville and Illinois and has visited both schools. He is also hearing from Auburn, Alabama, Stanford, Florida Atlantic, Central Florida, South Florida and Purdue. He does not have a favorite and would like to make a decision by early July. Henry passed for 1100 yards and 10 touchdowns, and rushed for 200 yards and four scores last season. "He's a great athlete," said his coach John Brantley III. "He could play receiver, safety or quarterback. He moved here from Mississippi intent on being a quarterback. He's made a lot of progress. He had a great Nike combine. He's a workaholic and leads by example. He has above average arm strength and can make all of the throws."

Gamecocks4Life

04-19-2008, 06:21 PM

TE/DE Justice Cunningham just commited to USC. He is best friends with DE Sam Montgomery.

SCFan34

04-19-2008, 06:46 PM

I enjoyed the game. I got to talk to Justice Cunningham at the end. Looks like a great kid. I told him he couldn't miss by signing and that he should go ahead and do it.. WHOO HOO he signed.

kokocock

04-20-2008, 06:22 PM

wb, or anyone else...got any info on any of the recruits experiences from this weekend outside of what kornblut tells us???

Williams-Brice

04-20-2008, 06:49 PM

Nu'Keese Richardson almost committed, but he wants to visit Southern Cal and Georgia first, but he said that Carolina is his #1, and it's not even close.

Jamaal Patterson now has Carolina #1.

Nothing but positive notes from Chris Bonds, Sam Montgomery, and everyone else.

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:42 AM

April 19, 2008
USC Lands Commitment
By Phil Kornblut

USC picked up its second commitment for the 2009 class Saturday when TE Justice Cunningham (6-3 232) of Central made his pledge following the spring game. "I talked to coach Reaves and he just asked me, and I said yes," Cunningham said. "I feel good about my decision. I don't have any second thoughts about that. I already liked it and my mom said she liked it. I like the fan support a lot, and I like how they are trying to come up (as a program)." USC is Cunningham's only offer. He also drew interest from Clemson, NC State and Maryland. Last season he had 21 catches for 400 yards and eight touchdowns. On defense, Cunningham had 92 tackles, seven sacks and two interceptions. "He's a heck of an athlete," said Central coach Joey Mangum. He was as good as (current USC defensive end) Cliff Matthews as a junior. He moves well. He can play down." Cunningham said he could end up on the defensive line with the Gamecocks.

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:43 AM

April 20, 2008
Richardson Still Favoring USC After Visit
By Phil Kornblut

WR Nukeese Richardson (5-10 170) of Pahokee, FL was favoring USC going into this weekend's visit for the spring game, and his attitude remains the same after the trip. "It went well," Richardson said. "I met some players I hadn't met before. I was impressed with how they use their receivers in different formations. I like how they stay five wide and four wide and spread the ball around." Richardson said he talked with Gamecock coaches Robert Gillespie and Steve Spurrier Jr. He knew going in he wasn't going to commit, and he held to that plan. "People were trying to get me to but I want to take some more visits," he said. "I'll visit Southern Cal in June. I'll also visit Georgia and Florida. South Carolina still leads. If I had to choose today, I would choose them."

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:47 AM

April 20, 2008
Patterson Enjoys Day At USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jamal Patterson (6-3 200) of McDonough, GA was at USC's spring game Saturday and kept a close eye on the receivers. "I loved it up there," Patterson said. "South Carolina throws the ball a lot so their offense caught my eye big time. The routes they run, the alignment and the assignments caught my eye. I talked to coach Gillespie, coach Spurrier Jr. and coach Spurrier. They tell me they want me up their bad. They love my physical play, the way I can go up and get the ball in traffic. They say the need receivers who can come in and play immediately." Patterson also went to Florida's spring game. He is now running track and will attend a couple of football combines in the coming weeks. He now has 36 offers with the newest ones being Arkansas, Duke, Auburn and Western Michigan. Clemson also is in the picture and Patterson feels USC and Clemson will be among his final schools when he narrows his list. Last Thursday he said he talked with Clemson head coach Tommy Bowden and assistants Ron West, Dabo Swinney and Billy Napier. "They said with Aaron Kelly and Tyler Gresham leaving they will need receivers who can come in and play," Patterson said.

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:49 AM

April 20, 2008
Henry Enjoys Trip To USC
By Phil Kornblut

QB Rob Henry (6-2 198) of Ocala, FL made an unofficial visit to USC over the weekend for the spring game. "It went real good, I had a great visit," Henry said. "Everything is nice. The campus is kind of unique. It's more like a town than a university. Everyone is like a family there." Henry has not been offered by the Gamecocks but he hopes to show recruiter Steve Spurrier Jr. this spring he's worthy of one. "I talked to coach Spurrier Jr. and he said he's going to evaluate me this spring," Henry said. "He said he and quarterbacks coach David Reaves are going to come down and watch practice, evaluate me and go from there." Henry has verbal offers from Illinois and Louisville. He's also drawing interest from Auburn, Alabama, Stanford, Florida Atlantic, South Florida, Central Florida and Purdue.

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:50 AM

April 20, 2008
Thomas, Bostic No Shows In Columbia
By Phil Kornblut

WR Kinsman Thomas (6-3 195) of Marlboro County and LB Jon Bostic (6-2 225) of Wellington, FL had planned to attend USC's spring game Saturday but both had to cancel because of family matters. Thomas said he talked with his recruiter David Reaves Saturday to let him know of his plans, and Bostic said he left a message with his recruiter Robert Gillespie. Bostic said he does plan to make a trip to USC at some point. He attended Florida's spring game last week and recently picked up offers from the Gators and Auburn. He also has offers from USC, LSU, Miami, Central Florida, NC State, Purdue and Florida International. He does not have favorites. Bostic said he last talked to Gillespie about a week and a half ago.

Wynnco.com

04-21-2008, 09:51 AM

April 20, 2008
Montgomery Among Visitors At USC
By Phil Kornblut

DE Sam Montgomery (6-5 240) of Greenwood was on hand for USC's spring game Saturday one week after taking Clemson's spring game. "At USC I hung out with the fans and the people and got a good feel for them," Montgomery said. "I loved every minute of it. I talked with coach Lawing, coach Spurrier, the academic adviser and strength coach. At Clemson, I hung out with some of the players and some of the players in my class like JK Jay and Roderick McDowell. I talked with coach Koenning, coach West and coach Rumph." Montgomery said he will take visits to North Carolina, NC State, Wake Forest, Duke, Florida State, LSU and others as he works to narrow his list to eight. He said USC and Clemson will be in that eight along with Miami and LSU, but at some point he wants to eliminate one of the in state schools. He said right now neither has the edge.

Wynnco.com

04-22-2008, 09:50 AM

April 21, 2008
Berry Watches Buckeyes Up Close
By Phil Kornblut

RB Jaamal Berry (5-11 190) of Miami traveled up to Columbus, OH over the weekend to watch the Ohio State spring game. "It was amazing, I loved it up there," Berry said. Berry visited Florida two weeks ago and doesn't have any other trips planned right now. Clemson and USC are among his offers and he seems to be getting a stronger push from the Tigers. "I talk to Clemson all the time," Berry said. "Coach Blackwell, I have a good relationship with him. I've not heard from South Carolina recently." Berry also has offers from Florida, Florida State, Auburn, Ole Miss, Minnesota, Rutgers, Tennessee, Michigan and Florida International. After Saturday, Berry has a feel for a favorite. "Ohio State was like a big thing for me," he said. "They are up at the top."

Wynnco.com

04-22-2008, 09:50 AM

April 21, 2008
USC Working Florida Safety
By Phil Kornblut

DB Cory Addison (6-1 190) of Jacksonville, FL had planned to attend USC's spring game but couldn't make it in. He hopes to visit USC sometime this summer. Addison said he's hearing a lot from Gamecock recruiter Steve Spurrier Jr. "I haven't been up there, but coach Spurrier has me following the program, so I want to get a chance to see them," he said. Addison has visited Florida and Florida State, and he says both are close to offering. He has 13 offers including USC, Miami, Kentucky, Illinois, Arkansas, Louisville and Ole Miss. He does not have favorites.

Wynnco.com

04-22-2008, 09:52 AM

April 21, 2008
Boyd Watches Wolfpack Saturday
By Phil Kornblut

WR Jheranie Boyd (6-3 185) Gastonia, NC spent Saturday in Raleigh watching the NC State spring game. He doens't plan to visit any more schools until the summer. Boyd said he's hearing a lot from Clemson and USC. He spoke with Clemson recruiter Billy Napier Monday, and he talked to USC recruiter Steve Spurrier Jr. last week and plans to call him again this week. "They (USC and Clemson) are showing strong interest," Boyd said. Privately, he has narrowed his list to nine, and he won't reveal the entire list until the summer. But he said USC and Clemson had made the cut. Boyd also has offers from Mississippi State, Alabama, NC State, Wake Forest, Maryland, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Oregon and Southern Cal.

Wynnco.com

04-22-2008, 09:53 AM

April 21, 2008
Gilmore On Hand For USC Spring Game
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Stephon Gilmore (6-2 190) Monday won the 100 meters in his region track meet with a time of 10.9 seconds. Saturday, Gilmore was at USC watching the Gamecocks run around in their spring game. "Its the first time I got to see them go full contact," Gilmore said. "I talked to coach (Ellis) Johnson before the game. He talked about how I can come in and have an impact on the defense. I just got to talk to him and know him a little bit more. I also talked to coach Reaves. He's trying to get me to play on the offensive side." Gilmore was joined on the visit by his parents and younger sister. He didn't make it to Clemson's spring game, and he visited Tennessee two weeks ago. Rutgers is the newest offer for Gilmore. His others are USC, Clemson, Florida State, Florida, Alabama, LSU, NC State, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Penn State, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio State and Colorado. He plans to narrow his list this summer or by the start of the season. He does not have any favorites.

MBGamecock

04-22-2008, 10:14 AM

April 21, 2008
Gilmore On Hand For USC Spring Game
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Stephon Gilmore (6-2 190) Monday won the 100 meters in his region track meet with a time of 10.9 seconds. ..........

I can down a double duece that fast! (out of the can):laugh:

Wynnco.com

04-23-2008, 09:05 AM

April 22, 2008
Florida Corner Holds USC, Klimp Sin Offers
By Phil Kornblut

DB Ricardo Dixon (5-11 168) of Hallandale, FL is a highly recruited prospect who counts offers from USC and Clemson in his collection. Other offers include North Carolina, Florida State, Ole Miss, Auburn, West Virginia, Central Florida and Tennessee. Dixon plans to take a hard look at the Gamecocks. "I am going to go out there for an official visit," he said. "Florida State and South Carolina are the only two officials I'm sure about right now. As of right now, everybody is up there. I'm looking for the coaches and the campus lifestyle. I like a city atmosphere; country wouldn't do for me." Last season, Dixon had 52 tackles with 30 passes broken up and one interception.

Wynnco.com

04-23-2008, 09:06 AM

April 22, 2008
Georgia Linebacker High On USC Board
By Phil Kornblut

USC is working to become a player with LB Michael Gilliard (6-2 200) of Valdosta, GA. Gilliard got an idea of the Gamecocks' interest in him after a recent conversation with defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Ellis Johnson. "He told me I was his number one prospect at linebacker and said I am the type of player that he wants to get in there and get into his system," Gilliard said. Right now Gilliard has Georgia, Georgia Tech and Florida as his top three schools. "There is no leader right now," he said. "I am just trying to figure out where I want to go. The number one factor for me is right now is early playing time and if I feel comfortable at the school." Gilliard also has offers from Auburn, Florida State, Kentucky, Miami, Michigan, NC State and Tennessee. Last season Gilliard had 112 tackles with 18 tackles for loss and 8 sacks.

Wynnco.com

04-24-2008, 09:19 AM

April 23, 2008
Florida Lineman Mulling USC Offer
By Phil Kornblut

USC recently offered DL Josh Elizondo (6-2 285) of Naples, FL giving him a half dozen offers. The others are Pittsburgh, Iowa, State, NC State, Duke and Troy. "I think I like Pittsburgh a lot now," Elizondo said. "My coach knows Dave Wannstedt real well." Elizondo said he's been hearing from USC recruiter David Reaves. He has not taken any unofficial visits and doesn't have any planned. Elizondo expects to get a lots of looks from recruiters during spring practice because many will be coming down to see his highly touted teammate OL Nick Alajajian.

pc72687

04-24-2008, 09:56 AM

Well I'm glad the weekend but we need to start getting some commitments from these kids. Most of the big schools seem to have most of their class commitmited before the season begins but SC always seems to be scrounging at the end.

Wynnco.com

04-24-2008, 04:13 PM

April 24, 2008
More Offers Arrive For Jeffery
By Phil Kornblut

DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 211) of Columbia has added six more offers according to his coach Kemper Amick. They are from Maryland, Kentucky, Florida, Michigan, Nebraska and Duke. And Amick said Southern Cal called this morning to talk about Jeffery. Jeffery also has offers from USC, Clemson, North Carolina, Virginia Tech, Michigan State, Alabama, Auburn, Oklahoma and Tennessee. USC, Alabama and Auburn have been his three favories.