Gamecocks
With the recent on field success, the Gamecocks have become more competitive on the recruiting trail against the other SEC schools. This is a smaller class due to the scholarship reduction imposed on the school a few years back for a recruiting violation. With four star LB Bryson Allen-Williams reaffirming his commitment to South Carolina earlier today, he headlines what is a very solid class that addresses the needs of the Gamecocks.
On the offensive side, the big names to watch for are four star OL Donell Stanley and four star WR Shaq Davidson. With Shaq Roland, Nick Jones, and Damiere Byrd all possibly leaving following the upcoming season, it is a smart move by Spurrier to bring some depth to the position. The only complaint is that compared to other top schools, the Gamecocks only have three OL committed at this point.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Gamecocks had a dire need at CB, DE and DT, and so far the Gamecocks have filled these positions well. To fill the void left by Jadeveon Clowney, Chaz Sutton, and Kelcy Quarles, South Carolina has gotten JUCO Jaustin Thomas and three star Taylor Stallworth on the Dline.
The Gamecocks maintained their number four ranking and had a very solid signing day. It was a good day, with four star CB’s Wesley Green and Chris Lammons, as well as four star DT/DE Dexter Wideman flipping from FSU. All three of these upcoming freshman are at huge positions of need for USC and could be in contention for early playing time.
Class Analysis:
Green is by far one of the best prospects for playing time in the East. While his weight may be a little low, he is an excellent cover corner. Given that USC lost three of its most veteran CB’s from last year (Jimmy Legree, Victor Hampton, and Ahmad Christian), leaving only Rico McWilliams with any previous playing time at CB. Given that USC is still running a 4-2-5 base defense, even if Green doesn’t start, there is no way he doesn’t get a large amount of playing time.
Kevin Crosby could be one of the more underrated guys in this article, due mainly in part to the versatility that he will offer the Gamecocks this fall. He could be used as an H-back, TE, or line up as an RB on a trick play. He has good speed and strength, which should help him excel throughout his career.
Top Impact
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**video courtesy of ultimate Prospects