USC Recruiting News [Archive] - Page 47

Williams-Brice

07-19-2008, 08:16 AM

WB's Updated Projection for the 2009 Recruiting Class

Keep in mind that there will be kids who pop up during their senior seasons (ala Kenny Miles). There were also other prospect camps last night (Florida's Friday Night Lights Camp) that I haven't done any reviewing of at this point. The number of players Carolina plans on taking at a particular position will be in parentheses. Players committed are in italics. I have predicted a signing of 28 players because it is inevitable that some will not qualify and will be placed in prep school in addition to the two I have already made note of below.

QB (0)
None

RB (1)
Warren Norman

WR (4)
DeMario Bennett
DeAngelo Smith
Charles Holmes -- sign and place
Ricco Sanders
Jheranie Boyd

TE (2)
Justice Cunningham
Orson Charles

OL (5)
Nick Allison
Quinton Washington
Johnnie Farms -- other schools have cooled on him, which sets us up nicely at this point
Kwame Geathers
Elliot Williams

DE (4)
Aldrick Fordham
Sam Montgomery
Duance Chisolm
Chaz Sutton
*Antwon Higgs is also high on us and is probably a take if he commits

DT (3)
Derrick Lott
Chris Bonds
Ronald Byrd

LB (5)
Matt Coffee
Brent Singleton
Quin Smith
Jalston Fowler
Robert Nelson
*Hawatha Bell will be in this class if he hurries up, but I feel like we are going to leave him behind.

DB (4)
Chris Payne
DaMario Jeffery
Stephon Gilmore
Jimmy Legree
Byron Best -- sign and place

JerryBeeds

07-19-2008, 09:43 AM

Here's what rivals has to say about D. Bennett:

WR DeMario Bennett, Douglas (Ga.) Coffee Co.
PARTICULARS: 6-3/185
THE BUZZ: Some schools think Bennett could be the biggest sleeper in Georgia. He has good ball skills, good size and plenty of speed. The only question was whether he would get enough exposure to become a national recruit. Look for the offers to pile up and look for him to move up the rankings in the fall.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:01 AM

July 18, 2008
Jeffery Makes Point With Gamecocks
By Phil Kornblut

DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 213) of Columbia attended USC's Showcase Camp Friday, and he said he did so for one reason. "My whole purpose was to show them I can play safety," Jeffery said. "I know all I need to know about South Carolina, and now they need to find something out about me. I did great in the one on ones. The coaches saw I can play safety. They saw that I can cover. They liked my performance overall." Jeffery said he definitely wants to play safety in college, not linebacker as some have suggested. Jeffery had thought about visiting Alabama next week but said he won't. In fact, he said he's finished visiting schools for now. Jeffery continues to favor USC over Alabama and Auburn. He said he talked to Stephon Gilmore of South Pointe, Sam Montgomery of Greenwood and Chris Bonds of Richland Northeast while at the camp.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:03 AM

July 18, 2008
Ellis Reschedules USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

WR Dominique Ellis (5-10 168) of Homerville, GA did not make it in for USC's Showcase Camp Friday as he had planned. But he is planning to make an unofficial visit with the Gamecocks August 1st. And at that time, he's hoping to land his official offer from the Gamecocks. Ellis continues to favor the Gamecocks and could commit if officially offered. Ellis said Florida State invited him in for a visit Saturday but he can't go because he has to work. He believes the Seminoles will offer him when he visits there. His only official visit at this point is Central Florida.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:04 AM

July 18, 2008
LeGree Doesn't Make USC Camp
By Phil Kornblut

DB Jimmy LeGree (6-0 170) of Beaufort had planned to attend USC's Showcase Camp Friday but didn't make it in for family reasons. LeGree is favoring the Gamecocks but said he's going to hold off on a final decision for the time being. Legree also holds offers from Vanderbilt, Presbyterian and Buffalo.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:05 AM

July 18, 2008
Thomas Not Fast Enough Friday
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Kinsman Thomas (6-3 195) of Marlboro County hoped to commit to USC Friday at the Gamecocks' Showcase Camp, but he knew he had to impress the coaches with a better 40 speed than he had recorded at an earlier combine. That didn't happen. "Everything was good until I had to run the 40," Thomas said. "They said I clocked at a 4.8, but my coach said he clocked me at 4.68. I don't know what's up with the time. They (USC) said they wanted me to wait (to commit) until my 40 time came down. I'm going to sit back and see what happens. To be honest with you, I really didn't know how to run a 40 until Wednesday or Thursday. Once I get my technique down I can get it faster." Thomas said USC was still his favorite and receiver David Reaves told him he's still interested. He said NC State and Illinois are two others showing strong interest and he hopes to visit NC State soon.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:07 AM

July 18, 2008
Smith Follows Thru With USC Commitment
By Phil Kornblut

WR DeAngelo Smith (6-2, 185) of Kingsland, GA committed to USC Friday night after attending the Gamecocks' Showcase Camp earlier in the day. Smith had said earlier in the month he planned to commit to the Gamecocks at the camp, and he stayed true to his word. "It's a good decision," said Smith who also considered Georgia, Vanderbilt and East Carolina. "I was one of the top receivers out there (at the camp). It was pretty good competition." Smith said he enjoyed working with USC's receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. "I think he's a good coach," Smith said. "He's a big reason I committed." Last season Smith caught 30 passes for 300 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:08 AM

July 18, 2008
Bennett Joins USC Commitment Parade
By Phil Kornblut

WR DeMario Bennett (6-3 185) of Douglas, GA made a commitment to USC Friday after attending the USC Showcase Camp. "I know they are going to throw the ball," Bennett said. "Every receiver wants to play in an offense where they are going to get the ball thrown to them. I feel like I will get plenty of passes thrown to me. I think I'm a lot like Chad Johnson. That's what everybody keeps telling me." Bennett also attended USC's June camp where he impressed the coaches enough to land an offer. "After I left the camp, they said they wanted me," Bennett said. He also considered Clemson and Florida though neither has offered.

Wynnco.com

07-19-2008, 11:09 AM

July 18, 2008
Holmes Commits To USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR Charles Holmes (6-3 197) of South Pointe committed to USC Friday Night after attending camp there earlier in the day. "I really want to help the program out," Holmes said. "I think South Carolina really fits me. They give their wide receivers a chance after the catch and let them do a lot of things by themselves. I like that." Holmes has some academic work to do to be eligible to enroll at USC next fall, and he plans to get that taken care of. "I'm going to double up this coming year," he said. "I can get it done." Holmes highly regarded teammate, ATH Stephon Gilmore, is a USC target as well, and Holmes hopes his decision will influence his friend to join him. "He told me South Carolina and Alabama are his top two," Holmes said. "He'll probably wait it out." Last season Holmes caught 44 passes for 988 yards and five touchdowns.

lacene

07-19-2008, 06:48 PM

Jheranie Boyd seems impressed with UF's Friday Night Lights camp, and now has them in the lead....

Williams-Brice

07-19-2008, 07:51 PM

Jheranie Boyd seems impressed with UF's Friday Night Lights camp, and now has them in the lead....

Interesting. He has been the type to favor a team after a visit and then the luster seems to wear off. We'll see how the Florida thing pans out. I still don't see him going too far from home.

Wynnco.com

07-21-2008, 08:54 AM

July 20, 2008
Newton Goes Under Lights At Florida
By Phil Kornblut

QB Morgan Newton (6-5 215) of Indianapolis was one of the prospects who attended Florida's Friday Night Lights camp Friday where he said he got a chance to throw to some of the top receiver prospects in the country. "It was fun in that respect," Newton said. "It was pretty fun, that Friday Night atmosphere." Newton aldo has taken recent visits to Indiana, Purdue, Kentucky and Illinois. "I had been to all before except Florida," Newton said. "I knew what to expect." Newton has no more trips planned for the summer and he's still mulling over his short list of Clemson, USC, Indiana, Purdue, Kentucky, Illinois, Florida and Miami. Newton said he's not talked to many coaches over the summer and plans to contact Clemson's Rob Spence and USC's David Reaves in the near future. He still claims no favorites.

Wynnco.com

07-21-2008, 08:56 AM

July 20, 2008
Jackson To See USC Later This Month
By Phil Kornblut

DB Mywan Jackson (6-0 180) of Seffner, FL made it to only one Carolina this weekend, the one in Chapel Hill. He originally had planned to stop by Columbia to visit USC but his coach had to get back home, so they went directly back to Seffner Saturday. Jackson got a full two day look at North Carolina. "I think it was real good," he said. "I liked the environment." Jackson does plan to get up close to the Gamecocks with an unofficial visit to USC July 31st. He will visit Michigan this Thursday. Jackson's offers are USC, North Carolina, Michigan, Illinois, Louisville, Rutgers, Auburn and West Virginia. He plans to name a top five by the end of this week.

Wynnco.com

07-21-2008, 08:59 AM

July 20, 2008
Virginia Receiver Plans USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

WR Tim Smith (6-0 185) of Chesapeake, VA has 16 offers and four official visits scheduled. He will go to Louisville September 5th, USC September 19th, West Virginia September 27th and Virginia October 4th. For his final visit Smith is looking at Boston College and Maryland. Smith said his interest in the Gamecocks is based in part on the coaching staff. "Coach Spurrier is a great coach," he said. "They do put people in the draft. And I know they get the ball around a lot. And they are in a great conference." Smith said he does not have a favorite and won't make a decision until after taking his visits. Last season he had 600 receiving yards and five touchdowns, and he scored three more times on punt and kickoff returns.

Wynnco.com

07-21-2008, 09:01 AM

July 20, 2008
Georgia Linebacker Big On USC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Robert Nelson (6-0 205) of Stone Mountain, GA attended USC's camp Friday, and the Gamecocks sit in a very good shape with him. "They sent me on a tour of the campus and I fell in love with the campus," Nelson said. "Everything looked really clean. I got a feel for the coaches and I liked them a lot. I've always been told that coming out of a Steve Spurrier program is one of the best things a young man can do in his life." Nelson said USC his current favorite with Auburn second on his list and Tennessee third. He attended an Auburn camp earlier in the summer. He also has offers from West Virginia, Troy and Louisiana Tech and is also getting interest from Purdue, Indiana, Ohio, Florida and Memphis. Nelson had a huge senior season setting a Georgia single season record with 176 tackles from his middle linebacker spot. "I believe I was born to play linebacker," Nelson said. "Tackling is my specialty. I know how not to run the long way to the ball."

WayzUp

07-21-2008, 10:08 AM

July 20, 2008
Georgia Linebacker Big On USC
By Phil Kornblut

LB Robert Nelson (6-0 205) of Stone Mountain, GA attended USC's camp Friday, and the Gamecocks sit in a very good shape with him. "They sent me on a tour of the campus and I fell in love with the campus," Nelson said. .../snip

Funny...Rivals has two Robert Nelson's; one is a OLB and the other is a MLB. They appear to be identical twins judging by the pics of both but as identical twins tend to do..there are some differences. For example, the MLB one is 6' 1", 225lbs and runs a 4.55 forty with a 3.8GPA. The OLB one is only 6' even and a slimmer 205lbs while a little slower afoot with a 4.59 forty time. I wasn't able to find what the OLB's gpa is though. :unsure:

http://southcarolina.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=85889
http://southcarolina.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=85759
:rolleyes: (sarcasm y'all)

Wynnco.com

07-21-2008, 12:46 PM

Funny...Rivals has two Robert Nelson's; one is a OLB and the other is a MLB. They appear to be identical twins judging by the pics of both but as identical twins tend to do..there are some differences. For example, the MLB one is 6' 1", 225lbs and runs a 4.55 forty with a 3.8GPA. The OLB one is only 6' even and a slimmer 205lbs while a little slower afoot with a 4.59 forty time. I wasn't able to find what the OLB's gpa is though. :unsure:

http://southcarolina.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=85889
http://southcarolina.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=85759
:rolleyes: (sarcasm y'all)

That's cool! Can you say Brinkley's?

JerryBeeds

07-21-2008, 01:18 PM

Jheranie Boyd seems impressed with UF's Friday Night Lights camp, and now has them in the lead....

Rather him go there than TaterU. He'll get lost in the shuffle at UF where as he could have a big time impact at PU.

lacene

07-21-2008, 02:43 PM

Rather him go there than TaterU. He'll get lost in the shuffle at UF where as he could have a big time impact at PU.

Or at USC, IMO....

Williams-Brice

07-21-2008, 06:31 PM

That's cool! Can you say Brinkley's?

I think it was a joke, buddy. There's only one Robert Nelson! :)

Wynnco.com

07-22-2008, 09:06 AM

July 21, 2008
Cross Makes Change In Fav Five
By Phil Kornblut

Mississippi State is in, NC State is out of the top five with DE Izaan Cross (6-5 253) of Flowery Branch, GA. Cross recently visited Mississippi State and was impressed by what he saw n Starkville. The rest of his favorites list is USC, Georgia Tech, Maryland and Oklahoma. Cross attended a one day camp at Georgia Tech this summer. Cross said all of his favorites are recruiting him about the same. He said he hears regularly from USC recruiter Shane Beamer. Cross was invited to USC's Showcase Camp but couldn't make it in. He said he will set official visits with his favorite five. There is no leader.

Wynnco.com

07-22-2008, 09:07 AM

July 21, 2008
USC Out Front For Georgia Lineman
By Phil Kornblut

DE Derrick Lott (6-5 270) of Kennesaw, GA attended USC's camp last Friday, his second camp of the summer in Columbia. "It was nice, I loved it, we had fun," Lott said. "I did one on ones the whole day. I talked to coach Lawing and coach Beamer. South Carolina is my leader. I've been to camps and stuff and they are showing me the most love." Lott also has offers from Louisville, Oklahoma State, Michigan State, Central Florida and Ole Miss. He's also getting interest from Florida State and Georgia. Lott camped at Georgia and has visited Louisville and Tennessee. He plans to take his official visits before deciding and three will be USC, Oklahoma State and Louisville. Last season Lott had 70 tackles with 10 for loss and five sacks playing defensive tackle.

lacene

07-22-2008, 10:19 AM

Oh well...per Rivals Jheranie Boyd has dropped USC......

Williams-Brice

07-22-2008, 07:51 PM

Oh well...per Rivals Jheranie Boyd has dropped USC......

Interesting. Whenever I post a projection, something bad happens.

He'll get wasted in Florida or Clemson's system, so I don't know what the draw is there. If he dropped us and still wants to be close to home, he should go to UNC.

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 09:36 AM

July 22, 2008
Florida Speed Back Getting USC Interest
By Phil Kornblut

RB Trabis Ward (5-9 203) of Fort Lauderdale, FL has excellent speed, but doesn't run from contact. "People think I'm so big I can't move, but i can run you over, run past you or shake you," Ward said. "I don't get run down." Last season Ward rushed for 1706 yards and 21 touchdowns. He has an offer from Troy while USC, Miami, Ohio State, LSU and Rutgers are major programs showing interest. "South Carolina is one of my favorites," said Ward who last heard from recruiter Robert Gillespie about a month ago. He is not attending any camps this summer.

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 09:37 AM

July 22, 2008
ACC Rivals Like Payton
By Phil Kornblut

WR Quintin Payton (6-4 195) of TL Hanna says he has offers from NC State and Duke. He's also heard from USC, Clemson, Wake Forest and North Carolina. Payton camped at Georgia and was invited to USC's Showcase Camp but couldn't make it. He said he's not had much contact from the Gamecocks or Tigers recently. "They want to watch and see how I do my senior year," Payton said. He has no favorite. Last season Payton caught 51 passes for 822 yards and nine touchdowns.

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 09:38 AM

July 22, 2008
Butler Likes ACC School
By Phil Kornblut

DB Lex Butler (5-11 166) of Westside has offers from Duke and Buffalo and is getting interest from USC, Maryland, Vanderbilt, North Carolina and NC State. He attended a Wake Forest camp recently and was invited to USC's Showcase Camp. Butler said he's favoring Duke where his brother Lee will be a freshman defensive back this season. Last season Lex Butler had 80 tackles and one interception.

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 09:38 AM

July 22, 2008
Gilliard Has A Pair Of Offers
By Phil Kornblut

WR LaQuan Gilliard (6-3 186) of Pinewood Prep now has offers from Newberry and Presbyterian. He is not attending any camps ths summer because he's taking summer school classes. USC recruiter Shane Beamer scouted Gilliard in the spring.

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 09:39 AM

July 22, 2008
USC Linebacker Target To Visit This Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

LB Jonathan Davis (5-10 205) of Tucker, GA will make an unofficial visit to USC this weekend along with his family. His father said Tuesday night they will arrive in Columbia Friday night and depart Sunday. "He's still favoring South Carolina," Ty Davis said. "I'm not going to say that (he'll commit). I'm not sure. He's just going to go there and look around. He wants to see how the campus looks." Davis also has an offer from Clemson and his father said they plan to visit the Tigers the following weekend. Davis, who had 223 tackles last season, also has offers from Louisville, Penn State, Florida State, Miami, Central Florida, UAB and Appalachian State.

lacene

07-23-2008, 03:33 PM

Hey, Williams-Brice, you think we'll sign RB Warren Norman? Have we offered him?

Wynnco.com

07-23-2008, 04:07 PM

July 23, 2008
King Getting Close
By Phil Kornblut

USC signee Jarrell King (6-7 295) of Georgia Military JC said Wednesday he's close to completing the math class he needs to be eligible to enroll this fall. "I should be done tomorrow," King said. "I have a couple of tests I need to pass the course. I have a good teacher. She's wonderful. I don't think I'll have a problem with that." King, who was in North Charleston Wednesday before heading back to GMA, said he also has to take a final exam early next week, but did not think that test would be much of a problem for him.

Wynnco.com

07-24-2008, 08:59 AM

July 23, 2008
Bostic Sees Gators & Noles
By Phil Kornblut

LB Jon Bostic (6-2 225) of Wellington, FL attended camps at Florida and Florida State last Friday and Saturday. "I had been to Florida before," Bostic said. "I got to workout with the linebacker coach and that was fun. I'm still learning about linebacker. I like to hit but I don't know a lot about technique. FSU was more of a seven on seven camp. I had fun there. All the players who came back were laughing and having a lot of fun. I got to work with their linebacker coach, too." Bostic has nearly 30 offers including Clemson and USC, and is still looking at possible visits to both before the summer is out. "My dad was trying to make it to USC and LSU, and maybe Clemson, but we're not sure about those trips," Bostic said. He added that he talked to Gamecock recruiter Robert Gillespie recently to assure him the Gamecocks were still on his list. He said he hasn't talked to Clemson recruiter David Blackwell since the spring. Bostic said he still has no favorites. "I've giving everybody a chance," he said. "I want to go to a place where I feel comfortable. Coach Gillespie, I feel very comfortable with him."

Wynnco.com

07-24-2008, 09:01 AM

July 23, 2008
Bell Settles On Four Official Visits
By Phil Kornblut

LB Hawatha Bell (6-1 230) of Matthews, NC has not been to any individual camps or taken any unofficial visits this summer, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been thinking about his recruiting. He's decided on four of his official visits in the fall. They will be to USC, North Carolina, NC State and Virginia Tech. He doesn't have a favorite among those four. "I'm looking for a winning program and an academic school," Bell said. "I'm looking for a great organization and a great team." Bell said he talked to his North Carolina recruiter last Saturday.

Wynnco.com

07-24-2008, 09:03 AM

July 23, 2008
Little To Take Recruiting Into Own Hands
By Phil Kornblut

QB Drew Little (6-6 245) of McDonough, GA, who passed for over 3000 yards and 35 touchdowns last season, is keeping his arm sharp on the seven on seven tournament tour this summer. His team finished second in a national tournament in Oregon last week. And this week his team will compete in another major event in Hoover, AL. Little has not been offered, but doesn't plan to sit back and wait on the schools. "I plan to start calling coaches next week," Little said. "I'm going to call about 20 schools, including South Carolina, to see what kind of interest they do have." USC is one of the schools to show interest in Little in the spring. He also drew interest from Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Ole Miss.

Wynnco.com

07-24-2008, 09:07 AM

July 23, 2008
Florida LB Names Gamecocks His Favorite
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Antwon Higgs (6-2 240) of Pompano Beach, FL says that USC tops his list. Last season, Higgs had 120 tackles and 6 sacks. He says the Gamecocks were the first to offer him. "I like the fact that they play big linebackers. Other schools are talking about me moving to the defensive end but I want to play at the linebacker position." Coach Robert Gillespie is his recruiter and Higgs says that Gillespie has confirmed they want him at LB. "They were the first to offer me and have stayed with me. They're my favorite right now but I am keeping my options open. " Higgs runs a 4.8 40, but says he expects that to improve. "My game speed is much quicker. Most definitely I am faster sideline to sideline." He says he sports a 3.6 G.P.A. and plans to graduate in December. Higgs hopes to visit USC for the LSU game. His offers include Florida, Miami, Florida State, NC State, West Virginia, and Purdue.

WayzUp

07-24-2008, 09:16 AM

Wynnco.com

07-25-2008, 10:03 AM

That's the kind of size I like in a QB personally.

No Joke. That's a healthy young man!

Wynnco.com

07-25-2008, 10:05 AM

July 24, 2008
Gilmore Focused On Four
By Phil Kornblut

DB Stephon Gilmore (6-2 195) of South Pointe recently trimmed his long list of offers to a final four of USC, Clemson, Alabama and Tennessee. He said Thursday those will be his four official visits and he's not yet set dates. "They are all pretty even," Gilmore said. "Clemson and USC are recruiting me the hardest. I want to go to a school where I can get on the field in a hurry." Gilmore, who can play several positions, said all of his favorites are recruiting him as a cornerback. He attended USC's Showcase Camp last week and talked with recruiter Ellis Johnson. He talked with his Clemson recruiter Billy Napier on Monday. Gilmore is no doubt getting a lot of advice from those close to him. Two of his best friends, Devonte Holloman and Charles Holmes, have committed to Clemson and USC respectively. That's created a bit of a problem for Gilmore. "I'm close to both of them," he said. "I would like to play with one of them." But he would not say which. Gilmore, who also has visited Clemson this summer, said he won't take any more visits before he takes his official visits this fall.

Wynnco.com

07-25-2008, 10:06 AM

July 24, 2008
Tennessee ATH To Make USC An Official Stop
By Phil Kornblut

ATH Eric Gordon (5-9 184) of Nashville has a dozen offers, including USC, and he's trying to narrow his list. Gordon said he knows one of his official visits will be to Columbia. He's unsure about the other trips. Some of Gordon's other offers are Tennessee, Miami, Alabama, Mississippi State, Kentucky, Oklahoma and Texas Tech. Gordon camped at Alabama and Tennessee this summer and spoke with head coaches Nick Saban and Phillip Fulmer. He does not have favorites. Gordon plays running back and receiver, and he returns punts and kicks. Last season he had 42 catches for 816 yards and 10 touchdowns, and he scored a total of 18 touchdowns.

Wynnco.com

07-25-2008, 10:08 AM

July 24, 2008
USC, Klimp Sin Still Trying To Turn Gresham
By Phil Kornblut

USC and Clemson haven't given up in their efforts to win over LB Chaun Gresham (6-3 200) of Winder, GA. Gresham committed to Georgia Tech in March but Gamecock recruiter Shane Beamer and Tiger recruiter Ron West have kept the relationship alive. Gresham attended USC's recent Showcase Camp. "I'm still with Georgia Tech for now," Gresham said. "I haven't changed my mind." Gresham said he likely will take an official visit to USC, and he might take one to Clemson. He's also looking at Alabama and Georgia Tech for possible official visits.

Wynnco.com

07-25-2008, 10:10 AM

July 24, 2008
USC To Shuffle Talent To Fork Union
By Phil Kornblut

Three USC signees, who are likely to be non-qualifiers, plan to enroll at Fork Union Prep, VA with plans to join the Gamecocks in December. DE Ronald Byrd, DB Darrell Simmons and DE Chaz Sutton have made plans to play this fall for coach John Shuman. Simmons said he is waiting on USC to review his transcript from a home school, James Madison High School in Norcross, GA, but indications are he will come up short. Two other signees, OL Elliot Williams and WR Tori Childers, also might be delayed in enrolling at USC. Williams is considered a long shot to qualify, and Childers had a qualifying test score flagged by the university. He is still waiting on a ruling. And DE Jarriel King took two tests Thursday he needs to pass to complete the math course required by USC for admission. He's not received the results.

Clemson is waiting on one signee to join the program. DB Xavier Brewer is completing some summer school classes and is expected to be able to join the Tigers in August.

WayzUp

07-25-2008, 11:38 AM

rabidcock

07-25-2008, 01:41 PM

WayzUp

07-25-2008, 02:47 PM

Wayz, why did you hit that girl on the back of the head?
She's a clemson fan. :cool:

rabidcock

07-25-2008, 06:46 PM

She's a clemson fan. :cool:

Thanks....but you only answered my 2nd question.:mellow:

Williams-Brice

07-25-2008, 09:59 PM

Dang...I had high hopes for Childers making it in and getting a good jump on being this class's best kept secret. I still think he's going to be a solid player for us, I'm just starting to get a little sick of all the sign-and-place routine we have to do every year.

Is the S&P thing as prevelant with other programs or do we do it more than others? Just curious....

Sign and place is very beneficial to us. We can get several top notch players each year, but we're not Florida, Georgia, or LSU. Every player they sign is a top notch player. The way we can try to counteract that is signing and placing. That allows us to sign guys that we'll have to wait on for several years before they become SEC type players. Doing this allows us to let another college program (a military program, at that) to groom the player for an entire season. When the player enrolls, we can still redshirt them because they have 5 years to play 4.

In my opinion, we don't do it enough. Auburn does it a lot every year, and they compete for the West every year. We'll be in really good shape if we can use this outlet more and more every year.

Williams-Brice

07-25-2008, 10:00 PM

Recruiting is going very well right now. Momentum has swung in our favor, and if today was signing day, then we'd sign 9 of the top 12 in the state.

Wynnco.com

07-26-2008, 09:41 AM

Another thing about sign & place. It's a little disappointing at first because no one likes to wait on a good player to join the team. Among other good things though is that after you do it for a few years you have really good players coming to your team every year from the S&P. I'm with WB, I wish we did it more often. Look at those 3 guys coming in this year that we signed & placed last year. They are a year older, more experienced and hopefully ready to go.

Wynnco.com

07-26-2008, 09:44 AM

uly 25, 2008
Williams May Be Junior College Bound
By Phil Kornblut

USC signee OL Elliot Williams is looking at the possibility of enrolling at Georgia Military JC if he's not approved by the NCAA for freshman eligiblity his father said Friday night. The Clearinghouse has not approved all of his classes at this point, and that would leave Williams short on credits. Mr. Williams said if his son is not approved, he will consider enrolling at GMA this fall.

Wynnco.com

07-26-2008, 09:45 AM

July 25, 2008
Davis Delays USC Visit
By Phil Kornblut

LB Jonathan Davis (5-10 205) of Tucker, GA has postponed his unofficial visit to USC this weekend and will visit within the next two weeks. Davis said his recruiter Ron Cooper asked to reschedule the visit because head coach Steve Spurrier was out of town at SEC Media Days. Davis has been favoring the Gamecocks and said a commit could come shortly after the visit. "If I like it," he said Friday afternoon. "Me and my dad are going to sit down and discuss it with each other after we get back home." Davis also claims offers from Clemson, Louisville, Penn State, Florida State, Miami, Central Florida, UAB and Appalachian State. Davis, who had 223 tackles last season, could end up at safety in college.

Wynnco.com

07-26-2008, 09:47 AM

July 25, 2008
Bonds Set With Five Official Visits
By Phil Kornblut

Richland Northeast DE Chris Bonds (6-4 283) has finalized plans for his five official visits this fall, and he has dates for three of them his mother said Friday. Bonds will visit Notre Dame September 13th for the Michigan game, Tennessee October 25th for the Alabama game, and Alabama November 29th for the Auburn game. Bonds also will take official visits to Southern Cal and Michigan on dates to be determined. Bonds is down to those five schools and USC. "There's no need for an official visit there," Ginger Miller said. "We went to the showcase last Friday and spent the whole day. We plan on going to as many home games as we can." Bonds does not have a favorite. As for his surgically repaired left knee, Bond's mother said all is fine. "The knee is excellent," she said. "We get the same phrase from the doctor, it's solid as a rock."

WayzUp

07-26-2008, 10:25 AM

Williams-Brice

07-26-2008, 10:33 AM

If you put percentages next to Bonds' name today, it would look something like:

USC 65%
Tennessee 20%
Southern Cal 10%
Alabama 3%
ND 2%

Michigan isn't really in it, but they weren't in it with Adam Patterson until the very end, either.

JerryBeeds

07-26-2008, 11:36 AM

I really don't think we'll get Bonds. He seems like another one who just wants to get out of state. He doesn't seem to really ever have anything good to say about us either.

lacene

07-27-2008, 08:25 PM

Hey, Williams-Brice, you think we'll sign RB Warren Norman? Have we offered him?

Nevermind......committed to Vandy....

Williams-Brice

07-27-2008, 08:37 PM

Nevermind......committed to Vandy....

Daggum. He'll be a good one there.

Sorry, lacene. I must have overlooked your question.

lacene

07-27-2008, 08:49 PM

Daggum. He'll be a good one there.

Sorry, lacene. I must have overlooked your question.

No problem....I couldn't find any info anywhere that stated that we had offered, so he probably wasn't too high on our wish list....

Williams-Brice

07-27-2008, 10:46 PM

No problem....I couldn't find any info anywhere that stated that we had offered, so he probably wasn't too high on our wish list....

We actually offered him early last week, maybe two weeks ago. I just hope these other schools fill up and then a guy comes out of nowhere like Kylan Robinson did a few years ago. Otherwise, our running back options this year will be sparse.

Williams-Brice

07-28-2008, 08:25 AM

My bad, we actually didn't offer. I misinterpreted the source.

Also, expect Jacksonville safety Corey Addison to commit to Carolina this week. This would be a huge pick up. Addison will likely get the bump to 4-star status at some point.

Nick Allison and Quin Smith have been given 2-star rankings. Rivals still has not gotten any film on them, and they will likely end up being mid 3-star guys after evaluation. You can also expect Charles Holmes, DeAngelo Smith, and DeMario Bennett to receive at least 3-star rankings.

Things are shaping up very, very nicely in-state as things stand today.

Wynnco.com

07-28-2008, 09:31 AM

July 27, 2008
Georgia RB Commits to Vandy
By Eric Guimaraes

RB Warren Norman (5-11 192) of Georgia committed to Vanderbilt today. Norman says he let them know last night and reconfirmed his commitment this afternoon. After visiting Nashville this weekend, he felt it was the right place for him. "I love what the school is about. They have great academics and a good football team. Coach (Bobby) Johnson seems like a real good guy and so does running backs coach (Desmond) Kitchings." Norman ran for 1568 yards and 28 TDs last season and feels he's a balanced runner. "I think I do a good job of hitting the holes and getting four yards a carry. I could probably work on my footwork though." He also ran a 4.4 40 on Saturday. He has visited Georgia, Georgia Tech, FSU, Auburn, and Alabama. USC and Clemson have both shown interest in the RB but he says his commitment is firm. "I'll take my official visit to Vandy, but that's it."

Wynnco.com

07-28-2008, 09:32 AM

July 27, 2008
Two Way Player Likes USC, Clemson
By Eric Guimaraes

LB-RB Enrique Williams (6-1 215) of Mobile, AL likes both USC and Clemson. He thinks that USC is close to offering. Ron Cooper is his recruiter for the Gamecocks. Williams already has offers from Ole Miss and South Alabama but says that Clemson and Carolina are both showing interest. "I like both of those schools and have heard from both, but South Carolina is showing me more interest right now. I think they're close to offering." He plans on playing LB at the next level. "Someone got hurt last year so I played the last six games at LB . I like it. I'll play the whole season there this year." Last year, he had 69 tackles. He also had 897 rushing yards and 14 TDs. "I think I'll play LB in college. I do a pretty good job of covering the field and I like to hit." Williams says he likes Texas and South Carolina but has no favorites. He has not decided where he will take any of his official visits yet. His 40 time is a 4.6.

Wynnco.com

07-28-2008, 09:34 AM

July 27, 2008
Addison Plans USC Visit This Week
By Phil Kornblut

DB Cory Addison (6-1 190) of Jacksonville plans to make an unofficial visit to USC this weekend, and the Gamecocks have the edge for Addison over Central Florida. "It's small, but it's an edge," Addison said. "I'm no longer considering Florida. If they wanted me, they could have offered me." With the Gators no longer a factor, Addison is giving serious consideration to making a commitment to the Gamecocks on his visit. "If everything works out, that's what I'm planning to do," he said. "If I'm feeling it, yes. I told coach Spurrier a while ago, so he's kind of expecting it." Addison also has offers from Clemson, Ole Miss, Louisville, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky and Miami.

SCRooster68

07-28-2008, 11:20 PM

Word on the street is that J King passed and it will be announced tommorow. Can anyone confirm or deny?

lacene

07-29-2008, 12:01 AM

Word on the street is that J King passed and it will be announced tommorow. Can anyone confirm or deny?

where did you get this word on the street? Someone quoted a post about Jarriel getting in, and that it would be announced "tomorrow", over at Cockytalk, but the quoted post was made on the 24th (last Thursday), so we can't take it with much worth at this time. However, I understand that Jarriel has taken the two tests he needed to take and has submitted them, but I haven't heard they passed, or when we'd get an idea.....

SCRooster68

07-29-2008, 01:20 AM

where did you get this word on the street? Someone quoted a post about Jarriel getting in, and that it would be announced "tomorrow", over at Cockytalk, but the quoted post was made on the 24th (last Thursday), so we can't take it with much worth at this time. However, I understand that Jarriel has taken the two tests he needed to take and has submitted them, but I haven't heard they passed, or when we'd get an idea.....

You got me man. This was not intentional. I have PUI'd. Forgive me! I just realized it and came back to edit my post. Maybe I can get a mod to delete it or you might want to leave it up so you can laugh at me.lol

Wynnco.com

07-29-2008, 08:51 AM

July 28, 2008
Georgia WR Likes USC, Klimp Sin
By Eric Guimaraes

Standout WR Jamal Patterson (6-3 202) of McDonough, GA says that USC and Clemson are still heavily involved with him. Patterson recently attended a Nike 7 on 7 tourney in Oregon and was awarded Co-MVP. The speedy wideout, who just ran a 4.45 40, says he is wide open in his recruiting. "I've got a lot of schools contacting me but I'm going to wait to narrow my list. I'm focusing on helping my team win a state title right now." Patterson has visited Stanford, Kentucky, and Auburn this summer and liked all three schools. "They all have nice things to offer." Jamal has not received any new offers recently and has no favorites. He plans to attend a game at both Clemson and Carolina this fall.

Williams-Brice

07-29-2008, 05:51 PM

Apparently King had two other tests to pass at 3:00 today. Who knows when they'll be posted.

Williams-Brice

07-29-2008, 08:41 PM

Damario Jeffrey is committing at 3:00 on Friday. I've been told all along that if he decides to commit early, then he'll be a Gamecock. No need to worry on this one.

So after this weekend, we should have Jeffrey and Corey Addison in the bag. Wow!

Also, I've read in a couple places that Stephon Gilmore is soon to follow. Don't know how reliable that is.

lacene

07-29-2008, 08:58 PM

uscrules

07-29-2008, 10:41 PM

That would be great news for a change.

Williams-Brice

07-30-2008, 05:21 AM

KING IS IN!

WayzUp

07-30-2008, 05:29 AM

KING IS IN!

What a great way to start my morning. The wait on Jarriel King is finally going to be over? This is a guy who 15 years ago was described by the GMA coach as the best player he's ever seen by far (yes, the quote included the 'by far') and that was right after the Brinkley brothers left there for USC. If he's 'by far' better/more talented than Jasper? :eek:

I can't wait to finally see this dood in the garnet & black and see what he is capable of.
:thumpsup:

MBGamecock

07-30-2008, 05:40 AM

What a great way to start my morning. The wait on Jarriel King is finally going to be over? This is a guy who 15 years ago was described by the GMA coach as the best player he's ever seen by far (yes, the quote included the 'by far') and that was right after the Brinkley brothers left there for USC. If he's 'by far' better/more talented than Jasper? :eek:

I can't wait to finally see this dood in the garnet & black and see what he is capable of.
:thumpsup:

Is it true that he started playing football his seior year in high school?

Wynnco.com

07-30-2008, 09:22 AM

July 29, 2008
Son of Klimp Sin RB Has USC Offer
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Roderick Blunt (6-2 215) of Miramar, FL who already has offers from USC, Purdue, and Wisconsin received additional offers from Mississippi State, UCF, and South Florida. His father, Rondey Blunt played RB at Clemson from 1989-93. Blunt says his son likes USC. "They were one of the first to offer him and they've recruited him hard. Just because I went to Clemson doesn't mean they've(Clemson) got him. They still need to recruit him." Blunt says he wants his son to go somewhere he feels comfortable and can graduate. "We want him to go to a school where he feels good. I'm not always going to be there for him so he needs to be somewhere he can grow up real fast." Roderick visited FSU for Junior Day this past school year and liked what he saw. "He enjoyed it. It's a good school, but really, they're all good schools." His dad is guiding Roderick's recruitment and just wants him to make a good decision. "The pigskin changed my life. I'm a Federal Agent now and love my job. I want him to take advantage of what football can offer him." Blunt runs a 4.5 40 and says his strength is playing sideline to sideline. USC is near the top of his list but he plans to take all five official visits before making a decision.

Wynnco.com

07-30-2008, 09:26 AM

July 29, 2008
Alabama LB Close to USC Commitment
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Jalston Fowler (6-0 240) of Mobile, AL is close to committing to USC. Fowler also plays DE and FB for his high school team but expects to play at the RB position in college. Fowler has offers from USC, Marshall, Arkansas St, and S. Alabama. He was scheduled to visit Ole Miss last weekend but changed his mind and did not make the visit. "I don't think I'm going to visit them (Ole Miss) anymore." Fowler attended football camps at Alabama and S. Alabama this summer and was pleased with each camp. "They both went pretty well." He runs a 4.6 40 and has no plans to gain or lose any weight. "I like where I'm at right now." The South Alabama LB says he will be trying to get in contact with Coach Ron Cooper so that he can commit. He plans to take an official visit to USC this fall and does not have any plans to visit any other school at this time.

Wynnco.com

07-30-2008, 09:28 AM

July 29, 2008
Jeffery Set To Announce Choice
By Phil Kornblut

DB Damario Jeffery (6-3 213) of Columbia is set to announce his college choice Friday afternoon. Jeffery has been favoring USC for weeks and indications continue to point towards the Gamecocks. Jeffery has narrowed his list to USC, Alabama and Auburn.

waldo

07-30-2008, 03:23 PM

I know someone has asked this question before, but how many years will King have to play? Thanks

lacene

07-30-2008, 04:30 PM

I know someone has asked this question before, but how many years will King have to play? Thanks

3 years to play 3

lacene

07-30-2008, 07:17 PM

lacene

07-30-2008, 07:23 PM

Also 4* WR Justin Brown (6-4 210) of Wilmington, DE visited USC today, and liked the visit. Said USC will get an official visit from him in the future......

lacene

07-30-2008, 07:31 PM

4* RB Rodney Scott - a commit to Auburn - is planning an official to USC. I wonder what our chances with him are?

scfan5338

07-30-2008, 08:11 PM

lacene

07-30-2008, 08:32 PM

Seems like a lot of guys that are intersted in us, or we have gotten a commitment from, or guys that we have interest in - per Kornbult's site - other teams are really not interested in them. Like Jalston Fowler, i.e., his offers include USC, Marshall, Arkansas St, and S. Alabama. Really not an impressive list of schools. I understand that our staff really looks at these kids but almost feels like Holtz days when we give scholarships to guys that no one else wants. I hope I'm wrong.

You are. One thing that our coaching staff was criticized for in the past regarding recruiting was that they were'nt getting out and recruiting the kids early enough, and always seemed to be trailing other schools. Well, our staff has really made a concerted effort to evaluate these kids earlier this recruiting season. As a consequence, they are seeing the prospects earlier, and are making offers earlier.

All the recruits that have committed to USC thus far have been personally evaluated and worked out by our coaches....if they accepted their commitments, it's because they like what they see. Don't forget Kinsman Thomas, the 3* WR who came to our showcase camp and proved that he's not that fast. He's got a number of offers (NCSU, Vandy), but started out 6-3, and now is on the short side of 6-2 (might even be 6-0), and despite being a great route-runner didn't show good speed in the 40 at our camp. Our coaches told him to hold off, and they'll continue evaluating him. As for Fowler, he's wanted to commit for awhile, but I think we're asking him to hold off as well.

We still have about 2/3 of our class yet to commit. We have a ton of prospects that we are very solid with, that have many offers from the majors. Thing is, last season's 6-6 record is making a few of them hesitate. They want to see how our season goes this season, before making a decision. It's important that we have a good season - hopefully 8-9 wins. But then, that was the case last season, and if we had it, we would've had 3-5 other recruits sign with us that wouldv'e made our class a top-15 class, IMO. And it's OK if they wait during the season, or just after it, because that's usually when we get the majority of our commitments, anyways....

SCRooster68

07-30-2008, 10:21 PM

Apparently Lattimore visited USC today with his Mom, and loved it. Got a tour of the school, met coach Spurrier in his office, etc. etc. Said the best part was meeting coach Gillespie: said his mom asked him a lot of questions, and was greatly impressed with him. Said on a scale of 1-10, the visit was a 10. Said his Mom was really impressed and that USC is where she wants him to go to now. Said that USC was already in the lead for him, but that the lead is larger now. Pretty much ran out of positive words to say about the visit......

Per TM at GCC insider.....

:)

We are sitting pretty right now. I want this kid. I have seen him play a lot. He is going to be really good running and catching the ball.

Duncan (S.C.) Byrnes running back Marcus Lattimore is one of the top overall prospects in the Palmetto State's class of 2010, and he spent the day getting a behind the scenes look at the South Carolina Gamecock program.

"That visit was awesome," the 6-foot, 200-pound Lattimore said. "My mom came with me, and we got to see everything we wanted to see. It was my best visit yet to any school."

Lattimore, who rushed for almost 1,900 yards on 284 carries last year, began the day examining the academic side of things.

"We actually started out at the Inn at USC where the recruits stay on their official visits, and we left in the golf carts from there," he said. "We took a tour of the entire campus and got to see all of it. Then we went over and checked out the dorms where the players live."

Lattimore, who accounted for 30 total touchdowns as a sophomore, then turned his attention to meeting with the Gamecock coaching staff.

"We went into coach (Steve) Spurrier's office, and that was my first time in there," he said. "He talked about how they want me, but he said they also need me at running back. He's a cool coach. I like him a lot. He talked about his history at Duke and Florida and how he won championships at both of those places, and now he's working hard to do the same thing at USC."

Lattimore then experienced the highlight of the day for him and his mother.

"The best part was meeting with coach (Robert) Gillespie," he said. "My mom got to ask him all of her questions as far as how I would be treated at USC, and he had all the right answers for her. He just kept everything real and honest and didn't sugarcoat anything. He said the best player will play. He didn't promise me anything except that chance to show him I'm the best man for the job. I loved that."

Lattimore, who sports a 32-inch vertical leap, said the visit couldn't have gone any better.

"It was '10'," he said. "I loved it. My mom loved it. I think USC is where she wants me to go now after what she saw."

Lattimore came into the visit with Carolina at the top of his list and the great visit only enhanced their chances to land him.

"They were already in the lead and now the lead is even bigger," he said. "Georgia is behind them, but USC is way up there now."
__________________

Williams-Brice

07-31-2008, 01:39 AM

Wynnco.com

07-31-2008, 09:38 AM

July 30, 2008
Georgia WR Waiting On USC Offer
By Eric Guimaraes

WR Dominique Ellis (5-10 170) out of Homerville, GA has USC as his favorite and says he will commit if he receives an offer. He is confident that USC will comply. The speedy young man (4.4 40) is playing wide receiver, corner back, and safety this season for his high school team but wants to play wide receiver at Carolina. "I want to play there because they throw the ball a lot and I like Coach (Steve) Spurrier." He believes that USC will offer him when he visits the school. "I'm not sure when I can come. My mom has to get off of work to take me up there." His only official offer is from UCF but he is drawing interest from Memphis, Georgia, Georgia Southern, as well as USC. Ellis camped at Georgia Southern this summer and enjoyed it. "They offered me but I'm really only interested in USC."

Wynnco.com

08-01-2008, 11:02 AM

July 31, 2008
USC Still Waiting On Two
By Phil Kornblut

With football practice set to commence Friday night, one USC signee has received the go ahead to report and two remain in limbo regarding their eligibility. DE Jarriel King successfully completed the math class he needed to be accepted by USC. The grade has been posted and King is on his way to Columbia. WR Tori Childers has to retake the SAT after his score was flagged by USC admissions. He's expecting to hear something back on that between August 6th and August 12th. And DB Darrell Simmons has a grade outstanding on a class he took this summer, and that will determine if he qualifies. If Simmons does not qualify, he will enroll at Fork Union Prep. USC signees DE Ronald Byrd and DE Chaz Sutton are already set to enroll at Fork Union. And OL Elliot Williams is headed to Georgia Military JC.

All 25 of Clemson's scholarship signees expected to be in school are there. The last to arrive was DB Xavier Brewer who finished up his summer school work and reported earlier this week.

Wynnco.com

08-01-2008, 11:05 AM

July 31, 2008
Lott Makes Visit To Florida State
By Phil Kornblut

DE Derrick Lott (6-5 270) of Kennesaw, GA made an unofficial visit to Florida State Thursday with his coach. "I talked to some of the coaches, viewed the campus, and watched the players do some drills," Lott said. "It was a nice visit." Lott said he talked with head coach Bobby Bowden and said he's not yet been offered by the Seminoles. USC is one of his offers and he continues to favor the Gamecocks. He also likes Florida State, Georgia and Oklahoma State. "I hear from South Carolina most every day," Lott said. "I plan to come in for one of their games." Lott visited USC twice earlier in the summer including the Showcase Camp in July.

Wynnco.com

08-01-2008, 11:06 AM

July 31, 2008
Addison To Visit USC Saturday
By Phil Kornblut

DB Cory Addison (6-1 190) of Jacksonville will make an unofficial visit to USC Saturday along with his parents and brother. Addison's father confirmed the trip Thursday night. Addison has narrowed his decision to USC and Central Florida, and last week he gave the Gamecocks a slight lead over the Knights, and hinted at a possible commitment during his visit with the Gamecocks. "If everything works out, that's what I'm planning to do," Addison said last week. "If I'm feeling it, yes."

Wynnco.com

08-01-2008, 11:07 AM

July 31, 2008
Jeffery To Reveal Decison Today
By Phil Kornblut

He knows his decision. His coach knows. And so, too, do the schools. This afternoon DB DaMario Jeffery (6-3 213) will let the rest of the world know whether he will play his college football at USC, Alabama or Auburn. Jeffery will announce his choice at a news conference at his school. He will make the announcement around 2:45 PM, and his news conference will be aired live at 1400theteam.com. Jeffery is believed to have narrowed his decision to the Gamecocks and Crimson Tide. Publicly, he has been favoring the Gamecocks for the past several weeks. He worked out at safety at the USC Showcase Camp in July and was pleased by the reaction he got from the Gamecock coaches. "The coaches saw I can play safety," Jeffery said then. "They saw that I can play safety and they liked my performance overall." Jeffery also visited Alabama earlier in the summer. He had planned to make a second visit to Alabama in late July but he canceled that trip.

WayzUp

08-01-2008, 01:55 PM

Jeffery Makes His Choice
By Kevin McCrarey

Columbia High defensive back DeMario Jeffery (6-3 213) has committed to USC. He chose the Gamecocks over Alabama and Auburn. He made the annoucement moments ago at his high school and live on SportsTalk First Edition on 1400TheTeam.com.

Last season Jeffery had 109 tackles, five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. He also had four sacks.

"Like my friend Chris (Chris Payne), I'm a Gamecock for life." http://www.pic4ever.com/images/47b20s0.gif

SCRooster68

08-01-2008, 02:09 PM

Gamecock fo life!!! I like the sound of this.

JDStud6

08-02-2008, 08:59 AM

fo sho

JD

JerryBeeds

08-02-2008, 09:34 AM

This class is shaping up nicely.

Wynnco.com

08-02-2008, 10:13 AM

August 01, 2008
Jeffery Joins The Gamecocks
By Phil Kornblut

Columbia High DB DeMario Jeffery (6-3 213) announced a commitment to USC Friday afternoon during a news conference at his school. Jeffery narrowed his decision to the Gamecocks and Alabama. "Now I can get on with my high school life now," Jeffery said. He made his decision about a month ago, and says USC's lack of success actually worked in their favor. "It was more of do I want to be on a team that's going to win it's first SEC championship, or do I want to be on a team that has won many," Jeffery said. "I can make history with the team. And I get to play Georgia in like the third game of the year. I want to make them pay for not offering me." Jeffery had 109 tackles and four sacks last season. He's big enough to play linebacker, but fast enough to play safety. "I bring a lot of versatility," he said. "I'm around 215 pounds and yesterday I ran a 4.3 with the wind. I'm pretty fast. I'm pretty versatile. I can play linebacker, safety. I'm going to try to bring what I do best to the game." Jeffery joins his teammate, DB Chris Payne, as a Gamecock commitment, and becomes the 11th commitment for USC's 2009 class.

Wynnco.com

08-02-2008, 10:14 AM

August 01, 2008
Bonds Attends USC Practice
By Phil Kornblut

Richland Northeast DE Chris Bonds (6-4 283) attended USC's first practice of the pre-season Friday night with his parents. Bonds, who has narrowed his choices to USC, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Alabama, Southern Cal and Michigan, plans to attend as many USC practices and home games that he can get to. He plans to take official visits to the other five schools.

DELTOR

08-02-2008, 03:39 PM

I'm sure everyone saw this coming, but Corey Addison committed to us. Another great one on board.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:15 AM

August 02, 2008
Florida OL Interested In USC
By Eric Guimaraes

Florida OL Alex Monroe (6-4 305) of Jacksonville, FL says he is interested in USC. Steve Spurrier Jr is his recruiter but the Gamecocks have not offered yet. Currently, Monroe has offers from Bethune Cookman, Florida A&M, Western Kentucky, and South Alabama. Coming off knee surgery on May 29th, which he says is completely recovered, he visited one camp this summer at Bethune Cookman. He says he had a solid camp and was offered on the spot. Monroe visited USC last semester and liked what he saw. "It's really big (Columbia) up there. I didn't expect that. The campus was really nice too." Monroe attends school where current Gamecocks Jamire Williams and Shaq Wilson played their high school ball. "They've told me what to expect up there. They've said a lot of good things about Carolina." He hopes to take his official visits to Florida Atlantic, USC, and Virginia. His high school runs a spread offense and he says his strength is drive blocking. He has no favorites at this time.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:17 AM

August 02, 2008
Addison Apparently Joins USC Class
By Phil Kornblut

DB Corey Addison (6-1 190) of Jacksonville, FL made an unofficial visit to USC Saturday and apparently committed to the Gamecocks. His father, who was with him on the visit, said Addison had made his decision, but since his son was asleep in the car as they were riding back to Jacksonville, he didn't want to confirm anything and wanted the news to come from his son once they returned home. Addison had said before the trip that he likely would commit to the Gamecocks on the visit. He would be the 12th commitment for USC's 2009 class and the second in two days.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:18 AM

August 02, 2008
Addison Confirms USC Commitment
By Phil Kornblut

DB Corey Addison (6-1 190) of Jacksonville verified Saturday afternoon that he committed to USC earlier in the day while on an unofficial visit to the school. "I looked at the educational side in business management, and that's one of the best in the nation," Addison said. "They showed me the depth chart and what they have left, and they wanted me to come play for them." Addison said he'll be a free safety with the Gamecocks. "I feel good about it," he continued. "Coach Spurrier was telling me that pretty soon they are expecting to win the SEC championship, and I can be a part of it." Addison said his commitment to the Gamecocks is firm. He picked USC over Central Florida. He also had offers from Clemson, Miami, Kentucky, Illinois, Arkansas, Louisville and Ole Miss. Last season Addison had 77 tackles and three interceptions.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:23 AM

August 03, 2008
Jersey Receiver Makes Stop By USC
By Phil Kornblut

WR Justin Brown (6-4 210) of Wilmington, DE made a recent unofficial visit to USC and the Gamecocks remain on his mind. "I like South Carolina," Brown said. "They have a great offense and great coaches." Brown also made stops at NC State, Maryland, Rutgers and Penn State this summer. He does not have any favorites at this point and will narrow his list after the season. Brown said he talks weekly with USC recruiter Cedric Williams and said USC is "sitting pretty good" for an official visit. Some of his other offers are Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech, Iowa, LSU, Kentucky, Illinois, Wisconsin and Tennessee.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:24 AM

August 02, 2008
Spurrier Updates Williams Status
By Phil Kornblut

USC football coach Steve Spurrier said after practice Saturday night that signee OL Elliot Williams likely will stay home for the fall semester to retake a course that was not accepted by the university. Spurrier said the plan is for Williams to enroll at USC in January. Spurrier confirmed that signees Chaz Sutton, Ronald Byrd and Darrell Simmons will enroll at Fork Union Prep, VA, and signee Tori Childers will retake the SAT. The university flagged what was a qualifying test score for Childers who expects to have the new score back within a week or two.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:25 AM

August 03, 2008
Klimp Sin, USC interested in Florida QB
By Eric Guimaraes

QB AJ Graham (6-4 202) of Tallahassee, FL has already received an offer from Clemson and USC is also showing interest. The two year starter for his high school was 10-1 his sophomore year and 9-4 his junior year. He confirmed that Clemson offered before his junior year and that the offer is still valid. Clemson, Kansas State, Central Michigan, Illinois, and Marshall are his current offers while USC, Georgia, Miami, Kentucky, and Louisville are among other schools showing interest. "There are a lot of schools that want me to send footage of the Jamboree we play in to open the season." He expects more offers to follow. David Reaves and Dabo Swinney are his recruiters for the Tigers and Gamecocks respectively. He has camped at USC and liked what he saw. "They have a nice atmosphere. I also really liked the coaches. " One of his high school coaches confirmed that Graham is a dual-threat quarterback who can run with the ball. "He doesn't look that quick because of his long strides but he can move with the ball." Graham says he runs the 40 in just under 4.6. He has no favorites . "Right now, I'm wide open. I'm really just focusing on my senior season and my team." Graham has not decided on where he will take his official visits.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:26 AM

August 03, 2008
Florida RB Has USC Offer
By Eric Guimaraes

RB Donald Russell (5-10 202) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL has received an offer from USC. He also has offers from Pittsburgh, South Florida, Wisconsin, and Southern Miss. He says he doesn't expect many more offers. This summer he camped at Florida and Miami but doesn't really have any interest in either school. "I had a good time at both camps but they're not what I'm looking for." Russell says a big part of his decision will have to do with playing time. "The one thing I really don't want to do is red shirt. I want to play early." He has not taken any visits but plans to visit USC. "I have to talk with my mom and dad about that, but I'm sure I'll probably visit up there (USC)." He says his strengths are is power, quickness, and vision. He runs a 4.48 40 but excepts that time to improve.

Wynnco.com

08-04-2008, 09:28 AM

August 03, 2008
Smith Now Has USC On Top
By Phil Kornblut

2010 PG Eric Smith (6-0 185) of Mullins entered the July portion of the summer recruiting scene as a strong lean to Clemson. A strong enough lean that he was giving serious consideration to committing to the Tigers. But here in early August, Smith has seen Clemson's interest in him drop, while USC's has remained strong. As a result, he's now strongly favoring the Gamecocks. "USC is showing me a lot of love," Smith said Sunday night. "They still want me. They like me a lot. Clemson has cooled a little bit. They said they really want a bigger guard out of my class. That kind of shocked me. I'm not going to say I've dropped them, but they are not where they were. USC is out front now. I just feel like I have a better opportunity at South Carolina." Smith said the Gamecocks would like an early commitment from him but he's not quite ready to make one. Smith attended a camp at USC Saturday and was at Wake Forest Sunday for a camp.

Wynnco.com

08-05-2008, 09:16 AM

August 04, 2008
USC Keeping Straughter Interested
By Phil Kornblut

LB Tony Straughter (6-1 211) of Georgia Military JC remains a USC target and has the Gamecocks in his top three along with Ole Miss and Tennessee. He talked recently with recruiter Ron Cooper and Straughter plans to attend a USC practice as soon as he can. "South Carolina is on me pretty strong," Straughter said. "Coach (Ellis) Johnson told me he needs two Juco linebackers to come in and he's picked me and (teammate Josh) Dickerson. He feels like we have the best character." Straughter said he doesn't have a favorite right now. He also has offers from Kansas State and East Carolina.

Wynnco.com

08-06-2008, 09:09 AM

August 05, 2008
Smith Keeping Options On The Table
By Phil Kornblut

DB Branden Smith (5-11 165) of Atlanta is still not ready to reduce his long list of offers to a more manageable number. "I'm open to everyone," Smith said. "Everybody is the same." Clemson and USC are among his offers and both are still involved. Smith attended camps at Clemson, Georgia, Auburn and LSU but only worked out at Auburn and LSU. His trip to Clemson was his second. Smith said he's hearing the same pitch from his recruiters. "All the coaches say the same thing," he said. "They really want me and I can help the team a lot." Smith has no other visits planned this summer. He's also not decided on official visits, and he's not decided on any games he'll attend this season.

Wynnco.com

08-06-2008, 09:10 AM

August 05, 2008
Chisolm Knows One Official Trip
By Phil Kornblut

DE Duane Chisolm (6-4 245) of Beaufort said Tuesday night USC, Clemson and Florida State are the three schools he's thinking about the most right now. He does not have an offer from FSU at this point. He does have offers from the Gamecocks, Tigers, Kentucky, Tennessee, NC State, Alabama, Maryland, West Virginia, Georgia and Auburn. Chisolm said he hears a lot from USC and Clemson but all the schools are recruiting him about the same. He visited USC, Clemson and Tennessee earlier this summer, and he might visit Georgia soon. Chisolm said USC will be one of his official visits this fall. He's not sure of the others. He does not have a favorite.

Wynnco.com

08-06-2008, 09:27 AM

August 05, 2008
Clanton Plans USC For Official Visit
By Phil Kornblut

6-8 Keith Clanton of Orlando said Tuesday night USC will be one of his final five schools when he cuts his list, and he's looking at making an official visit with the Gamecocks August 28th. "I've been talking to them a lot on the phone," Clanton said. "I've talked to coach Horn in the past couple of days." Clanton also has offers from Virginia, Butler, South Florida, Central Florida, Miami, Providence and Penn State. He plans to decide on his four other finalists after returning from a tournament in the Dominican Republic the middle of this month.

lacene

08-07-2008, 09:55 PM

August 07, 2008
USC Picks Up Commitment #13
By Phil Kornblut

DB Jimmy Legree (6-0 170) of Beaufort committed to USC Thursday night becoming the 13th pledge for the Gamecocks' 2009 class. Legree also had an offer from Vanderbilt and drew interest from Clemson, NC State and Wake Forest. Legree plays cornerback and safety. Last season he had 70 tackles and six interceptions.

Welcome to the Gamecocks, Jimmy! Now go talk to your buddy Chisolm.....

Wynnco.com

08-08-2008, 10:20 AM

August 07, 2008
USC Tight With Florida Guard
By Phil Kornblut

USC and Virginia are the two favorites right now of PG/2G Ramon Galloway (6-3 160) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Galloway said he has offers from the Gamecocks and Cavaliers, plus South Florida and Central Florida. He's also drawing attention from Kentucky, Xavier, Louisville, Pittsburgh, Memphis and Florida. Galloway attended a recent camp at Florida. He's very interested in USC and will take an official visit with the Gamecocks. "I talk to South Carolina all the time," Galloway said. "They seem very interested." Galloway said he has talked with USC head coach Darrin Horn and all of the assistants. He does not have a favorite and is not sure if he'll sign in November. Last season Galloway averaged 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists per game.

click clack

08-08-2008, 03:46 PM

Per Tony Morrell from GamecockCentral....Carolina is getting another commitment but can't announce who yet because he is committed to another school.

FLgamecockJAX

08-08-2008, 05:56 PM

Yes, I'm hearing the same thing. I was hoping WB would have some scoop for us. I guess the news will be out later.

Williams-Brice

08-08-2008, 06:07 PM

Yes, I'm hearing the same thing. I was hoping WB would have some scoop for us. I guess the news will be out later.

I've got no scoop on this one. I'm waiting on Tony Morrell or JC Shurburtt to say something, too!

larryt4111

08-08-2008, 06:10 PM

I've got no scoop on this one. I'm waiting on Tony Morrell or JC Shurburtt to say something, too!

NO GUTS NO GLORY, Ha Ha Ha
I SAY SCOOP THEM !!!!!!!!

lacene

08-08-2008, 06:40 PM

from Morrell, he was asked by the recruit to hold off announcing it until after the recruit contacted the recruiting coach of the other program first, to let him know. Apparently, that program is in the middle of their practice, and the recruit couldn't get a hold of the coach. That's why there's a delay in the announcement.....

All indications are pointing to 3* LB Chaun Gresham (6-3 200) of Winder, GA, who committed to GT back in March. He was still recruited heavily by Beamer, and also by other schools (UT offered him after he had committed). He is the nephew of George Rogers. Last season Gresham had 113 tackles and 5 sacks as a weakside linebacker.

FLgamecockJAX

08-08-2008, 08:54 PM

I've got no scoop on this one. I'm waiting on Tony Morrell or JC Shurburtt to say something, too!

JC says it's Chaun Gresham. Hopefully his mother changed her mind. I've heard he has wanted to play for USC for quite some time. His mother didn't want him following Big George. Hopefully all is well in the home and everyone is ready to be Gamecocks!

lacene

08-08-2008, 09:12 PM

August 08, 2008
Georgia LB Commits to USC
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Chaun Gresham (6-3 215) of Winder, GA decomitted from Georgia Tech today and then commited to Carolina. Gresham also has offers from Vanderbilt, Clemson, Tennessee, Alabama, Marshall, and Georgia Southern. Orginally committed to Georgia Tech, Chaun wanted to let their coaching staff know that he had changed his mind before making his new commitment to USC official. The speedy linebacker runs a 4.5 40 and had 113 tackles and 5 sacks as a Junior. He said staying committed to Tech was becoming more difficult as more schools began showing an interest in him. Shane Beamer is his recruiter for the Gamecocks.

Nice pick up for the Gamecocks!

JerryBeeds

08-09-2008, 09:08 AM

Getting Gresham to flip is huge news. Great get for the Gamecocks.

Williams-Brice

08-09-2008, 09:36 AM

Yeah, this is a really big pick up. They didn't have room for any more linebackers in this class who weren't big time players.

Wynnco.com

08-09-2008, 10:06 AM

August 08, 2008
Legree Talks About USC Commitment
By Phil Kornblut

DB Jimmy Legree (6-0 170) of Beaufort committed to USC Thursday night. He had been favoring the Gamecocks since they offered after camp in June. "I'm excited, really," Legree said Friday afternoon. "I'm ready to step into my new role and do my part. It's local and all my family is in South Carolina and they can see me play. I like the coaching staff. I'll play cornerback. I'm good at going up and getting the ball. If it's in the air, I fee like it's mine and I'm going to go get it." Legree also had offers from Vanderbilt, Buffalo and Presbyterian and he said his commitment is a firm one. Last season he had 70 tackles and six interceptions. He's the 13th commitment for the Gamecocks' 2009 class.

FLgamecockJAX

08-09-2008, 10:18 PM

How many more LB's will we take and who are the frontrunners?

Williams-Brice

08-09-2008, 10:22 PM

We're taking 5 linebackers unless any other great ones want to join.

Gamecocks4Life

08-10-2008, 08:07 PM

Just heard that there's a big chance that a WR committed to another school will be switching there committment to South Carolina. Any idea on who it is?

lacene

08-11-2008, 12:53 AM

Just heard that there's a big chance that a WR committed to another school will be switching there committment to South Carolina. Any idea on who it is?

James Green of Tallahassee, FL?

:D

Gamecocks4Life

08-11-2008, 12:55 AM

That's what I heard too.

SCRooster68

08-11-2008, 01:09 AM

That's what I heard too.

What's your source. Big secret?

Wynnco.com

08-11-2008, 09:19 AM

August 09, 2008
Geathers Watches USC Scrimmage
By Phil Kornblut

DL Kwame Geathers (6-6 310) of Carvers Bay attended Saturday's USC scrimmage at Williams-Brice Stadium with his father. Geathers is the brother of Gamecock sophomore defensive end Cliff Geathers. Sitting with his father in their car after the scrimmage, Geathers said there has not been much movement on the recruiting front with him. He said USC, Clemson and Georgia remain at the top of his list with no favorite. He also has offers from Maryland and Florida State.

Wynnco.com

08-11-2008, 09:20 AM

August 10, 2008
Ole Miss Offers USC Target
By Eric Guimaraes

WR Eric Williams (5-11 185) of Bradenton, FL has received an offer from Ole Miss. Williams, who has USC as one of his top choices, says Ole MIss immediately becomes one of his favorites. "Their coaches call me a lot and already have made me feel like part of the family," he said. "Coach (Houston) Nutt did a good job at Arkansas already and I've been following their new quarterback. I think he's going to be real good." The Florida receiver is planning on taking at least four official visits to USC, Purdue, Marshall, and Ole Miss. All schools have offered. "Where ever I feel at home, that's where I want to be." Williams recently ran a 4.38 40 and plans on having a big senior season. Last year, he had 30 catches for 435 yards and 4 touchdowns. "My numbers are going to be way bigger this season." His other offers are from South Florida, UAB, and Middle Tennessee St. He says FSU is evaluating his film and also may offer.

Gamecocks4Life

08-11-2008, 09:44 AM

What's your source. Big secret?

The Big Spur

FLgamecockJAX

08-11-2008, 04:02 PM

We're taking 5 linebackers unless any other great ones want to join.

Will we still take Hawatha Bell or did he miss the boat? EJ also said he wanted 1 or 2 JUCO LBs.

pc72687

08-12-2008, 07:47 AM

How many of these current commitments are scheduled for a "star" increase. Every year it seems we find players before these recruiting sites do, so I was just curious.

Wynnco.com

08-12-2008, 09:19 AM

August 11, 2008
Hopkins Undecided About Future Sport
By Phil Kornblut

Daniel's DeAndre Hopkins (63 185) is one of the state's top junior propsects in basketball and football, and he's not sure which one he wants to play in college. "I'm not thinking about either," Hopkins said Monday night. "I'm just enjoying high school sports right now." Hopkins said he has basketball offers from USC, Florida and Wake Forest, and a football offer from Clemson. He's also hearing in football from USC, Florida State, Florida, Alabama, Auburn and Virginia. Of all the schools, Hopkins said Clemson is pulling him the hardest for football. "They're talking about taking care of me as a player and a student," Hopkins said. "They tell me how I can succeed on the football field." Hopkins said the USC basketball staff also has been working him hard and he talked recently with a Gamecock coach. He does not have a favorite and does not plan an early decision. In football last season, Hopkins led the state with 13 interceptions. He also had 81 tackles, and he caught 13 passes for 271 yards and seven touchdowns. In basketball, he averaged 20 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals and 8.5 assists per game.

Wynnco.com

08-12-2008, 09:21 AM

August 11, 2008
Charlotte DB Likes Gamecocks
By Eric Guimaraes

DB Josh Hunter (6-2 176) of Charlotte, NC says that Carolina is in his top 4. He likes USC, Florida, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia. All four have offered. In all, Hunter has 12 offers. The others are from Miami, NC State, Duke, East Carolina, Western Carolina, Colorado, Wake Forest, and Marshall. Hunter likes USC because of its location and the league in which they play. "They (USC) play in the SEC and I know it's the best conference. I like that. I also like that it's close to home. That's important to me." What is most important to him is to play "on a big stage." In his junior season, Josh had five interceptions, two for touchdowns with 29 tackles and two sacks. He says his speed and agility are his strongest assets. "I run track for my school. That really helps me on the football field." Hunter runs the 100M, 200M, and relays for his team. Last month, he says he ran a sub 4.5 40 yard dash. He has not decided when he will take his official visit to USC.

Williams-Brice

08-12-2008, 10:59 AM

Will we still take Hawatha Bell or did he miss the boat? EJ also said he wanted 1 or 22 JUCO LBs.

Sounds like he missed the boat.

Wynnco.com

08-13-2008, 09:20 AM

August 12, 2008
USC In Play For Mississippi Back
By Phil Kornblut

RB Tracy Lampley (5-9 175) of Waynesboro, MS is getting strong interest from USC. Lampley has not been offered by the Gamecocks, but he's optimistic one will come soon. "They plan to offer me on my official visit," Lampley said. "I'm going to call coach Gillespie this weekend to schedule the visit. I talk to coach Gillespie about every other week. He seems real interested. I'm looking forward to going out there. I'm excited about it." Lampley has offers from Mississippi State, Southern Miss and UAB, and he's also getting interest from Memphis, Auburn, Alabama, Michigan, Illinois, LSU and Ole Miss. He does not have a favorite. Last season Lampley rushed for 1680 yards and 17 touchdowns, and he had 1875 all purpose yards with 21 touchdowns.

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 09:13 AM

August 13, 2008
Enrique Williams Still Waiting On Offer
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Enrique Williams (6-1 210) of Mobile, AL still has not received his offer from USC but is still hopeful. "I don't think they can contact me until September. I still get letters from them every week." This summer, Williams camped at FSU, Ole Miss, Vanderbilt, and UAB. He says the camps went well but didn't give him much of a chance to visit any of the campuses. His current offers are from South Alabama and Ole Miss. He does not have any favorites but would like an offer from USC and hopes to take one of his official visits at Carolina. Williams plays both ways in high school as a linebacker and running back but expects to play on defense in college.

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 09:14 AM

August 13, 2008
Georgia LB Still Strong On LSU
By Eric Guimaraes

LB Kevin Minter (6-1 240) of Suwanee, GA says he is still firm on his commitment to the Tigers of LSU. Minter has offers from USC, NC State, Ole Miss, Virginia, Southern Cal, Nebraska, and Purdue as well as others and recently picked up another offer from Alabama. He still likes LSU. "It's real nice down there. The atmosphere is great and I get along real well with the coaches and players." He knows that he will have to compete for playing time but that doesn't concern him. Shane Beamer is his USC recruiter and Minter says he has not heard from him of late. The hefty linebacker says he ran a sub 4.5 40 at his high school this summer. He may or may not take all of his official visits this year depending on the advice of his parents.

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 09:15 AM

August 13, 2008
Stedman Bailey Likes USC
By Eric Guimaraes

WR Stedman Bailey (5-11 185) of Miramar, FL already has an offer from USC and likes what Carolina has to offer. Bailey says he knows that Steve Spurrier is a legend and 'likes to throw the ball around the field." Stedman plays slot receiver and likes to create mismatches for linebackers. "There are always things to work on," he says, "I am always working on my routes, catching the ball, and getting faster." Robert Gillespie is his recruiter for the Gamecocks and Bailey says that the coaches have told him he would be a good candidate to replace Kenny McKinley. He says they are similar physically. He runs a 4.46 40. The Florida receiver has offers from Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Rutgers, South Florida, Florida International, Purdue, Vanderbilt, and Boston College. He has no favorites but intends to take one of his official visits to Columbia.

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 09:17 AM

August 13, 2008
USC Could Get OL Commitment This Weekend
By Phil Kornblut

OL David Harding (6-5 285) of Orlando will arrive in Columbia Thursday afternoon for an unofficial visit with USC, and the Gamecocks have a shot at coming away with a commitment according to his coach. "From what he was telling me today, I'd say South Carolina is his favorite," Phil Ziglar said. "He likes coach Hunt (OL coach), and he wants to get everything done before the season. He visited Florida State last weekend but said that wasn't for him. He's also visited Duke." Harding has relatives who live near Columbia, and Ziglar has been a friend of Hunt's for years. Harding also has offers from Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, South Florida, Central Florida, Syracuse and Stanford. Ziglar said Harding is an honor student with a 4.4 GPA. And he's a good offensive guard, too. "He's very quick and has long arms," the coach said. "He's a great pass protector and a great pulling guard."

larryt4111

08-14-2008, 03:58 PM

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 04:01 PM

I have a question.
I have been reading all this info on possible DB's recruiting bla bla bla. I fail to see the extreme need for the possibility of offering so many DB's vs BIG UGLYS.
I'd like to see USC load up on the the TRENCH GUYS. GOD knows we need them!
Games are won and lost in the trenches for sure!
Dose anyone with a hint of inside knowledge understand the DB thing at Carolina???
Thanks
Larryt4111

I think one of the reasons teams recruit a lot of those type players is because they can potentially play so many positions on defense as well as offense. Just my opinion.

Wynnco.com

08-14-2008, 04:05 PM

August 14, 2008
Harding Looking To Learn About USC
By Phil Kornblut

OL David Harding (6-5 285) of Orlando and his parents will make an unofficial visit to USC this weekend. The Hardings plan to arrive Friday for what will be their son's first visit with the Gamecocks. He has visited Duke and Florida State, and now he wants to learn what the USC program is all about. "Duke is out front," Harding said Thursday afternoon," but my only contact with South Carolina has been with coach Hunt. That's why I'm making the visit to see where South Carolina puts itself." Harding has 17 offers and wants to make a decision before his season. If he's blown away by the Gamecocks, he said it's possible a commitment could come sooner than later. "I could see me committing later on this weekend or early next week," he said. "But, I want to talk it over with my parents." Harding's other offers include Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, Syracuse, Central Florida and Stanford. He plays offensive guard and has just recently build himself up strength wise because he spends his summers with his parents doing missionary work in Ethiopia.

lacene

08-14-2008, 06:32 PM

I have a question.
I have been reading all this info on possible DB's recruiting bla bla bla. I fail to see the extreme need for the possibility of offering so many DB's vs BIG UGLYS.
Yes I read about OL David Harding (6-5 285) and that would be a GOOD SIZED UGLY TO ADD TO THE FOLD.
I'd like to see USC load up on the the TRENCH GUYS. GOD knows we need them!
Games are won and lost in the trenches for sure!
Dose anyone with a hint of inside knowledge understand the DB thing at Carolina???
Thanks
Larryt4111

DB was a definite need for us in this class, as we are losing Thomas and Woodson, as well as Mike Newton, to graduation. There is a decent chance that we also lose Captain and/or E-Cook to the pros if they have another outstanding season like last year. Regardless, for '09 we lose them anyway, plus Stewart, Chris Hail, and walk-on SS Blake Baxely.

I'm thinking that a number of the DB's we get in this '09 class will redshirt, and be RS-freshmen for 2010....by then, Culliver and Addison Williams will be seniors, Barnes, Auguste, Jamire Williams, Antonio Allen and Jarrett Burns will be juniors, Darrell Simmons, Tori Childers, plus whoever enrolls and plays as true freshman from our '09 class will be sophomores.

The above that's in bold print make up 9 DB's for 2010, not including whoever we sign in this '09 class....that's 1 more DB beyond 2-deep....and not enough. Including our walk-ons, we have enough for a 4-deep secondary this season. We'll need who we're getting in in this class....

We're looking to bring in 4-5 OL for this '09 class: Allison, who we've already got, plus Elliot Williams from the '08 class, who'll join our team in January. Plus we're in the lead or among the leaders for Quintin Washington, and David Harding, who may commit to us this weekend. Plus we may choose to sign a JUCO OL in James Carpenter, or take Kwame Geathers, although I understand that Geathers' stock is plummeting with our coaches currently.....I think we're doing fine at OL for this class thus far, honestly.....

kokocock

08-14-2008, 08:44 PM

whats up with geathers?

Williams-Brice

08-15-2008, 08:08 AM

Williams-Brice

08-15-2008, 08:10 AM

DB was a definite need for us in this class, as we are losing Thomas and Woodson, as well as Mike Newton, to graduation. There is a decent chance that we also lose Captain and/or E-Cook to the pros if they have another outstanding season like last year. Regardless, for '09 we lose them anyway, plus Stewart, Chris Hail, and walk-on SS Blake Baxely.

I'm thinking that a number of the DB's we get in this '09 class will redshirt, and be RS-freshmen for 2010....by then, Culliver and Addison Williams will be seniors, Barnes, Auguste, Jamire Williams, Antonio Allen and Jarrett Burns will be juniors, Darrell Simmons, Tori Childers, plus whoever enrolls and plays as true freshman from our '09 class will be sophomores.

The above that's in bold print make up 9 DB's for 2010, not including whoever we sign in this '09 class....that's 1 more DB beyond 2-deep....and not enough. Including our walk-ons, we have enough for a 4-deep secondary this season. We'll need who we're getting in in this class....

We're looking to bring in 4-5 OL for this '09 class: Allison, who we've already got, plus Elliot Williams from the '08 class, who'll join our team in January. Plus we're in the lead or among the leaders for Quintin Washington, and David Harding, who may commit to us this weekend. Plus we may choose to sign a JUCO OL in James Carpenter, or take Kwame Geathers, although I understand that Geathers' stock is plummeting with our coaches currently.....I think we're doing fine at OL for this class thus far, honestly.....

Note to sell . . . always check to see if lacene has posted something before you try to post on the same topic.

That is all.

Great post, man. Beat me to it.

Williams-Brice

08-15-2008, 08:10 AM

whats up with geathers?

Things are looking so strong with some other guys right now that we might not have room for him. He could be the next Hawatha Bell if he doesn't jump on soon.

Wynnco.com

08-15-2008, 10:19 AM

August 14, 2008
Hood And USC Won't Be A Pair
By Eric Guimaraes

OL-DE Daniel Hood (6-5 255) of Knoxville, TN has decided that USC is not the place for him. On his way back home from Florida, Hood took an unofficial visit to USC and did not feel comfortable. "It just didn't feel right and I went with my gut feeling. I let the coaches know because I didn't want to play any recruiting games with them." He says he knew they were no longer an option and didn't want to waste the USC coaches time. "It seemed like the right thing to do." And apparently, USC didn't feel that strongly about Hood as the Gamecocks cooled their recruiting efforts and moved the focus to other prospects at his position. Hood visited both Florida, and FSU on the same trip. He has several offers including FSU, Georgia Tech, Louisville, Tennessee, Auburn, Stanford, UCLA, Colorado, and Marshall. Hood has not narrowed his list. USC was recruiting him as an offensive lineman while other schools are recruiting him at tight end and defensive lineman. He says that this did not factor into his decision to eliminate USC from his list. He runs a 4.9 40.

Wynnco.com

08-15-2008, 10:21 AM

August 14, 2008
Florida DB Has Offers From USC, Klimp Sim
By Eric Guimaraes

DB Zeke Motta (6-3 210) of Vero Beach, FL has received offers from Carolina and Clemson. He visited Clemson this summer among other schools and was impressed. " I only was there for a day but I got to see the campus. It was pretty." Motta also visited Wake Forest, Boston College, Notre Dame, Auburn, Stanford, and UCLA as well as the Florida schools. He says all of the campuses are nice and that will not likely factor in his decision. "I'm looking at academics and tradition. That's what is important to me." Zeke is early in the process and his dad has been contacting schools to thank them for their interest. He is focused on the season but plans to sit down with his dad to come up with their top five. As a junior, he had 152 tackles, 7 blocked kicks, four forced fumbles and an interception. He scored one touchdown as a receiver. He plays DB now but expects to play SAM linebacker at the next level. He runs a 4.6 40 but believes his game speed is faster. "When the game begins, I switch goes on. I think that's more important." Motta has 35 offers including FSU, Miami, Notre Dame, UCLA, Auburn, Illinois, and Wisconsin. He does not have any favorites. He has had more contact from his Clemson recruiter Chris Rumph. He believes that Robert Gillespie is his USC recruiter but was not sure.

larryt4111

08-15-2008, 04:25 PM

Thanks for the response to my DB question.

lacene

08-15-2008, 04:57 PM

Things are looking so strong with some other guys right now that we might not have room for him. He could be the next Hawatha Bell if he doesn't jump on soon.

W-B, what I'm gathering from several sites is that it's worse than that....if Geathers wanted to commit to us today, we would not take him. He's dropped on our board for OL, and according to others does not have a committable offer from a Div 1-A program right now. I'm not sure if the issue is his physical abilities, or if it's on the academic side: my instincts tell me it's by far the latter, but several sources have stated that Geathers is not an SEC OL right now, and will need to show a lot his senior season to get consideration.....

JerryBeeds

08-15-2008, 08:27 PM

Williams-Brice

08-16-2008, 12:40 AM

W-B, what I'm gathering from several sites is that it's worse than that....if Geathers wanted to commit to us today, we would not take him. He's dropped on our board for OL, and according to others does not have a committable offer from a Div 1-A program right now. I'm not sure if the issue is his physical abilities, or if it's on the academic side: my instincts tell me it's by far the latter, but several sources have stated that Geathers is not an SEC OL right now, and will need to show a lot his senior season to get consideration.....

It's mainly his work ethic from what I'm hearing.

Williams-Brice

08-16-2008, 12:42 AM

Looks like Nick Allison moved way up and Justice Cunningham moved way down in Rivals latest rankings. I wonder what could cause a kid who hasn't played a down of his senior season yet to move down so far?

It would make sense if they received new film from his junior year, but all they did with Justice was review the same film they had already evaluated. That makes no sense to me.

Wynnco.com

08-18-2008, 09:26 AM

August 17, 2008
Byrnes DB Drawing Attention From USC
By Eric Guimaraes

DB Riyahd Richardson (5-9 165) of Byrnes High School says that USC has shown some interest in him but have not offered. His only official offer to date is from Texas A&M. Other schools showing interest are NC State, Colorado, Notre Dame, and Penn State. Richardson has visited USC, NC State, and Texas A&M. "I really liked NC State because their facilities are really nice. Everything is brand new." He said the same thing about A&M. "They took me on a tour of the entire campus so I got to see everything. They also have really nice facilities." The Byrnes cornerback says he likes to jam his receivers at the line and thinks it is a strength of his. "I'm a small cornerback so I've got to play physical. I don't want them thinking they can push me around." He plans to work on his footwork this season. He also retur