Cockfather Illustrated

Signing Day Wrap- Offense

2010-02-04T16:11:00.004-05:00

Another national signing day has come and gone, and this was about the most uneventful January in USC recruiting I can remember. The Gamecocks signed 24 players to National Letters of Intent yesterday morning and expect 23 of those to be enrolled by July. The class was ranked 23rd by ESPN.com and 25 by Rivals.com.

The headliner of the class is Byrnes RB Marcus Lattimore. The 5-foot-11, 210 pound five star prospect was widely considered one of the top two running backs in the country. He was rated as the No. 1 overall prospect for much of the year by The Sporting News, and finished rated as their No. 2 overall prospect behind DE Ronald Powell, a Florida signee.

There is no doubt in my mind that Lattimore can start from Day ONE at Carolina. Lattimore has a special skill set that very few backs possess. He can make people miss, make yards after contact, and has the best hands national analysts have seen in several recruiting cycles. I would be remiss without mentioning three other qualities that make Lattimore a can't miss prospect: Vision, Character, and Work Ethic.

Lattimore has great vision. He has the ability to see the hole, cutback and be full speed in one to two steps. He also has great feet, which allows him to be able to change direction and accelerate.

His character and work ethic seperate him from the last bigtime running back that signed with South Carolina. Lattimore does volunteer work in his community, is a good student, and comes from a good family that keeps him grounded. He is also a very humble, yet confident individual.

The Gamecocks signed six quality line prospects in this class thanks to the early work of departed offensive line coach Eric Wolford. Carolina had six OL commits in the summer and added a seventh in Buford, GA Du'Von Millsap last fall. There was one defection. Under Armour All-American Eric Mack showed what type of person he is by staying committed to Carolina, while recruiting other players for Auburn, the school he planned to attend since September.

Mack weighed 347 pounds on his official visit, and will struggle to qualify. Because of his added weight, declining attitude and work ethic, there was no sadness at the Eddie Floyd football building when Mack de-committed. Mack showed very little respect for anyone in Columbia while on his official visit and alienated many of his future teammates. There is a reason why Mack was NOT selected to represent South Carolina in The Shrine Bowl of the Carolina's.

My two cents on the top two candidates for immediate playing time is A.J. Cann and Millsap. Cann, an Under Armour All-American and the top overall offensive line prospect in South Carolina is now 6-foot-2 and weigh 285 pounds. He has the athletic ability and strength to make an immediate imapct at center or guard. I really like Cann long term at center. Millsap is a 6-5 330 pound mauler that I project as a right tackle. According to sources in the SEC, The Ole Miss staff compares Millsap to former Arkansas All-American Shawn Andrews, who played for Houston Nutt during his tenure at Arkansas.

The Gamecocks added three offensive linemen from Florida and all three have excllent long-term potential. Jacksonville standout Trammell Williams chose South Carolina over Illinois last summer and the Gamecocks held on to his pledge even after late overtures from Tennessee and FSU, both of which offered and sent NLI papers to his home. The 6-foot-2, 290-pounder could play center or guard and possesses the strength and athleticism to play right away. Williams could also get a look at defensive tackle, although only if needed.

Coco Beach product Ronald Patrick could prove to be the steal of the bunch. The 6-foot-1, 283 pound standout was a State Champion in 2009 and saw his stock rise tremendously right up until signing day. FSU came forward with an offer in early January, but Patrick was sold on the Gamecocks. Credit recruiter Jeep Hunter with building a strong relationship with Patrick during the process and that helped in keeping his commitment in tact. Patrick is another prospect that could play center or guard.

Tallahassee native Cody Gibson is the third of the sunshine state offensive line signees. The 6-foot-6 265-pounder projects long term as a left tackle and will need time to fill out his frame before being counted on to contribute.One or two years in Craig Fitzgerald's weight program should have Gibson in the 295-310 pound range an ready to play.

Havelock, NC mamouth Corey Robinson was spotted early by veteran eastern NC recruiter Brad Lawing, who had his first coaching stint at Havelock High many years ago. The 6-foot-7, 290-pound Shrine Bowl selection is still raw, but possesses great size and athelticism to develop into a quality SEC offensive lineman. He too will need time in the weight room and practice field to develop.

The Gamecocks added an intriguing TE prospect late in Corey Simmons, the son of former NFL great Clyde Simmons. The 6-foot-5, 225 pound Great Atlanta Christian product was a late bloomer, but from watching his film and looking at his measurables, appears to be a good pickup for the Gamecocks. HE was coached at GAC by former Gamecock standout linebacker Kenneth "Gus" Robinson. Simmons could also play defensive end after a redshirt year in 2010.

At receiver the Gamecocks added the playmaker they have been missing in Bradenton, Fla. standout Ace Sanders. The 5-foot-9, 170-pound speedster is the type of slot receiver Steve Spurrier's offense has been missing. Sanders could see immediate playing time as a kick returner and slot receiver.

Following the signing day defection of long time commitment Shaun Tapley to UNC, Jacksonville ace recruiter Steve Spurrier, Jr. reached out to Raines HS standout Javon Bell, who due to academic concerns had flown under the proverbial recruiting radar. The 5-foot-11 speed merchant was considered by many as the top overall receiver in Florida for this recruiting cycle. Bell was also selected by The Florida Times-Union as the Offensive Player of the Year.

According to an interview with his Bell's high school coach yesterday on Sports Radio 1400 in Columbia, they have a plan in place for Bell to be a full qualifier. Should this come to fruition, Bell would have to be considered as the biggest steal of the class. Had his academics been in order, he would have likely garnered offers from the Big 3 in Florida, as well as many top schools around the country.

The most likely scenario is that Carolina will place Bell in prep school and get him back in 2011.

Byrnes standout Nick Jones rounds out the Gamecock receiving class. The 5-foot-8, 190 pounder turned down a late offer from BCS participant Cincinnati for his services. Jones will add depth at the slot position and is impressive in his own right as a play maker.

Quarterbacks coach GA Mangus did a masterful job in securing the commitment of Conner Shaw last spring. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound signal caller committed to the Gamecocks following last April's Garnet and Black game. The son of a successful high school coach and brother to Georgia Tech QB Jaybo Shaw, the younger Shaw was Carolina's top prospect at the QB position.

Carolina was helped by the relationship formed by Mangus and the Shaw family when Mangus recruited Jaybo while the offensive coordinator at Middle Tennessee under former USC assistant Rick Stockstill. Shaw is already enrolled at South Carolina and will likely be the No. 2 quarterback heading into the 2010 season.

The Gamecocks added Boiling Springs HS and Shrine Bowl QB Dylan Thompson following his performance at the Steve Spurrier football camp last June. Thompson, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound gunslinger threw for over 3000 yards as a senior.

Headliner- RB Marcus Lattimore

Sleeper- TE Corey Simmons

Steals- WR Ace Sanders, OL Ronald Patrick, Javon Bell (if he qualifies)

Gamecock Commits Impress in San Antonio

2010-01-10T18:16:00.003-05:00

For the first time since the game began ten years ago, the South Carolina Gamecocks were represented in the U.S. Army All-America game. Carolina had one verbal commitment heading into the contest, as Greenwood, SC Defensive lineman Kelcy Quarles pledged to the Gamecocks as a junior. The 6-foot-5, 275-pound son of former offensive lineman Buddy Quarles alternated at defensive tackle with Florida bound Sharrif Floyd. Quarles was impressive, as he was explosive off the ball, used his hands well and played with good pad level and leverage. The No. 2 DT prospect nationally according to Rivals.com is still built like a DE and will need to add 20-30 more pounds to be an effective DT in the SEC, but nonetheless, Quarles was impressive going against 300 plus pound offensive guards and tackles.

It is easy to see why Quarles garners such a lofty national ranking. Not only is he qucik and explosive off the ball, but he also does an excellent job using his hands to get leverage, which is an advanced skill, and one that he no doubt learned at summer camp from USC defensive line coach Brad Lawing, who really believes in teaching hand and arm leverage techniques to his linemen.

I expect Quarles to start off playing strong side defensive end as a freshman, and then move inside after a full year in strength coach Craig Fitzgerald's weight program. It is doubtful Quarles will redshirt, as a source close to the USC program believes the prep-All-American is just too good to sit out, even with USC's depth at end. Quarles is a legacy, and a great get for the Carolina program, joining other young studs as Devin Taylor and Chaz Sutton to ensure Carolina's defensive line continues to be one of the best in the SEC after the departure in 2010 of three starters.

At the conclusion of the first quarter, CB prospect Victor Hampton finally made a public commitment to the Gamecocks. This was perhaps the worst kept secret of the recruiting season, as many have known since November Hampton would be a Gamecock. The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder was one of the biggest surprises of the week and it is now easy to see why the Florida Gators accepted such an early commitment from Hampton. Rivals expert Mike Farrell stated that Hampton was the top corner on the East squad after his performance this past week.

Hampton plays with wild abandon and shows no fear. He plays lie he is the best on the field, using excellent speed and great ball skills. I fully expect him to be a contributor immediately at South Carolina. Kudo's to South Carolina assistant head coach for defense Ellis Johnson and defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward for staying on Hampton after he was dismissed from the Independence HS program in Charlotte over the summer. While it took almost half the season, Hampton did gain eligibility at Darlington HS, where his mother resides and made teh most of his senior season. Hampton showed he has elite cover skills and showed excellent run ssupport as well in the Army All-American contest.

As long as he keeps his nose clean and does the right things at South Carolina, I think Hampton will continue the trend of Gamecock DB's taking their skills to the next level.

Carolina target Marcus Lattimore was also impressive in limited duty. The 6-foot, 200-pound Byrnes HS product is clearly one of the nation's finest, and overall, I think the most sure fire NFL back in the contest. While Lattimore will not be confused with CJ Spiller, a speedster that is a game breaker, but lacks durability, Lattimore is the total package. He has good speed, but is quicker than he is fast and has the best foot work and change of direction skills of any back I have seen come out of South Carolina since Harold Green. Because of the sophistication and versatility of the Byrnes offense, Lattimore has developed great receiving skills, which is another reason why I think playing in an offense like Spurrier and GA Mangus plan to deploy will highlight Lattimores skills even more and help him develop into a top notch NFL back, along the same lines as Fred Taylor and Eric Rhett.

Barring anything unforeseen, I fully expect Lattimore to ink with the Gamecocks after he makes his public declaration at his church on signing day eve. New running backs coach Jay Graham has done a fantastic job building a relationship with Lattimore, and is a great example for his next star pupil. Graham starred in the SEC and then took his game to the NFL, something Gamecock fans hope this upstate product will do.

The news was not all good for the Gamecocks, as USC target Sharrif Floyd selected Florida over USC, Ohio State, and North Carolina. The Gamecocks were thought to be out of the running for the top rated defensive tackle, but a late push by recruiters GA Mangus and Brad Lawing placed the Gamecocks back in the game, and there were rumors swirling on the eve of his decision that lead many to believe he may ultimately choose the Gamecocks. However, the 6-foot-3, 310-pounder selected the Gators, despite the uncertainty of Florida head coach Urban Meyer's health and the fact the Gators are absolutely loaded at DT.

Gamecock assistants GA Mangus, Jay Graham, and Brad Lawing were in San Antonio to meet with Carolina target J.R. "Ego" Ferguson. The 6-foot-3, 265-pound defensive end started for the East squad and is rated as a five-star prospect by Rivals.com. Lawing and Graham met with Ferguson and his father to try and secure the Hargrave standout's final official visit on January 29th. Sources say the meeting was positive, but the Gamecocks are battling FSU and Miami, so stay tuned. TBS insider Tony Morrell believes a decision will be made by early next week on who gets the last visit.

The Pappa Johns Mastercard Experience

2010-01-04T10:29:00.003-05:00

One ticket to 2010 Pap Johns Bowl- $40.00
Two night hotel stay at the Perimeter Hilton- $258.00
Under Armour cold gear- $51.00
Under Armour Hooded Sweatshirt- $74.50
Round trip ticket from Austin, TX 298.00

2010 Pappa Johns Bowl Experience- Anything but priceless!

Yes, my master card took a big hit to attend the 2010 Pappa John's Bowl just like the other 30 thousand or so loyal Gamecock fans that made the trip and braved the cold to watch our Gamecocks lay an egg on ESPN against a University best known for its Women's Basketball program.

No offense to UConn head coach Randy Edsall. I like the way his team plays. They play hard nosed, physical football. UConn was clearly the tougher and more disciplined team on the field on Saturday afternoon. But they were not the most talented. Talent does not always win, but rather it is the team that executes, plays hard, and wants it the most.

For the second straight year, Carolina lost to a blue collar team that was tougher, more physical and played with more determination and desire. Perhaps its time that Steve Spurrier start implementing some of those traits and characteristics in his team instead of running country club bowl practices and not using the 15 practices allowed by the NCAA. Last year, Carolina practiced 14 times and this year, with a very young team missing its offensive line coach, the Gamecocks practiced only 12 times.

Why leave three practices off the books with such a young team? The question begs an answer.

Simply put, Spurrier never has been a good bowl coach. At Florida, his talented Gator teams lost several bowl games they should have won. Now at Carolina, Spurrier's bowl record stands at 1-3, with Iowa the only team that was favored to defeat the Gamecocks.

I do think Spurrier took a big step in hiring App. State offensive line coach Shawn Elliott. The Camden native will bring a passion that has been lacking to the offense. This was a bold move by Spurrier to pass on several coaches with NFL and SEC coaching experience. My next blog will take a look inside the Elliott hiring and what we can expect from our next offensive line coach, who hit the road recruiting today.

Shameful Performance by Gamecock Offense

2010-01-02T18:14:00.003-05:00

Folks, there is no way to sugar coat or put a positive spin on what occurred at a cold and windy Legion Field in Birmingham today. This was a shameful performance by the Carolina offense. From the outset the Gamecock gameplan appeared to be finess, as Steve Spurrier conceded the line of scrimmage and the ground attack after the second series.

On a day when the weather conditions were not condusive to passing the football, it appeared tha was all Spurrier intended to do. The Gamecocks were playing a UConn defense that was giving up over 400 yards per game. This was not Florida or Alabama's defense in navy blue jersey's today. Yet, UConn dominated the Gamecock offensive line and Carolina had a mere 84 yards of total offense in the first half.

It was more of the same in the second half, as Carolina abandoned the running game, even though they faced only a 13-0 deficit.

It was the same story as last year's Outback Bowl as the Gamecocks committed key penalties, had lost yardage plays, while their opponent played virtually mistake free. UConn did not commit a single penalty the entire game.

The one big play that could have turned momentum around, never materialized, as Akeem Auguste's potential pick six fell harmlessly to the ground in the 3rd quarter, a play that would have pulled Carolina to 13-7 and swung momentum the Gamecock's way.

It is hard to blame the Carolina defense, as UConn came into the game with a potent ground attack. The Gamecock defense was on the field virtually the entire first half as the offense did not get a first down until over well into the second quarter. The defense was constantly playing a short field and pout in bad situations by Carolina's inability to move the football.

There was nothing to be excited about on this day for the 30 thousand plus Carolina fans that braved this cold winter afternoon at Historic Legion Field.

Now, Spurrier must turn his attention to making a quality hire with the vacant offensive line coaching position, then its on to recruiting. Carolina must get a hard-nosed physical offensive line coach and Spurrier must adjust his philosophy if he is going to be better than a 7-6 program of his first five seasons. A strong finish in recruitng will ease the sting of this loss. While I still think this season was a success, a disappointing loss like this does not send the players into the off season with a lot of momentum. Hopefully this young core of players will take to heart what happened today and learn that in football the toughest and most disciplined team is the oe that wins.

Up next, John Fulton's decision and the importance of being more physical on offense.

2009 a success for Gamecocks?

2009-12-31T10:51:00.003-05:00

Following the 2008 football season, the Gamecock nation was reeling. Three straight blow out defeats, major shake-ups on the coaching staff ensued, and the failures of November and the Outback Bowl had many wondering if head coach Steve Spurrier could really get it done in Columbia.

Several players declared early for the NFL Draft. Juniors Jared Cook, Emmanuel Cook, and Captain Munnerlyn all left the Gamecocks with one year of eligibilty remaining. It also appeared Eric Norwood would also leave early, but the two-time All-SEC performer changed his mind, and with that decision, I believe changed the momentum for the Gamecocks in 2009. Norwood went on to be named 1st team All-American by the AP and The Walter Camp Foundation. He alos became the first three-time All-SEC selection for the Gamecocks and set the career record for sacks in 2009. Norwood led this team on and off the field in 2009 and his spirit, determination, and enthusiasm permeated the locker room and carried over to the field of play.

Spurrier started rebuilding his team by hiring five new assistant football coaches and a new strength and conditioning coach to complete his staff. Each one of these new coaches shared common traits; they can all evaluate, recruit, and coach their respective positions, something that Spurrier had not had on his staff previously.

Perhaps the assistant coach that made the biggest impact was quarterbacks coach GA Mangus. Mangus was a walk-on Qb at Florida under Spurrier and also served as an assistant under the HBC while in Gainesville. Mangus was charged with molding Stephen Garcia into the player many expected when the prep All-America QB inked with the Gamecocks in 2007. Mangus delivered as Garcia started all 12 games, threw for over 2700 yards with 17 TD passes and only nine interceptions. Garcia also had four TD passes called back.

Those coaches went out along with recruiting coordinator Shane Beamer and maintained what was considered a borderline national top 10 recruiting class that included many standouts that would contribute right away, beginning with five early enrollees. The headliner has to be freshman All-American Stephon Gimore. All the Rock Hill native did was start every game at CB and lock down one side of the field. Gilmore was tested early and delivered in the season opener when NC State went right after him on the final drive of the game. Gilmore responded by knocking a potential touchdown pass down and preserving the Gamecocks 7-3 victory.

By mid-season, another true freshman was making his mark on offense. Receiver Alshon Jeffery spurned Pete Carrol and Southern Cal on signing day, and he showed fans just why the other USC would come all the way across the country to recruit the Calhoun Co. prospect. Jeffery's signature game came against Kentucky, as he broke out with three touchdown grabs, each of an acrobatic nature.

Other true freshmen that made an impact include RB Jarvis Giles, CB DJ Swearinger, SS DeVonte Holloman, who's big interception return turned the momentum in Carolina's 34-17 victory, SPUR DaMario Jeffery, and special teams stud Quin Smith.

Certainly a recipe for success does not include 6 new assistant coaches, rebuilding the offensive line, starting a new backfield and largely unproven receiving corps. And that's just on offense. On defense, the Gamecocks had major question marks at linebacker, where two-time All-SEC performer Jasper Brinkley departed for the NFL. In addition, the Gamecocks also lost Marvin Sapp, who actually out-performed Brinkley in 2008. Three starters had to be replaced in the secondary, including both CB positions.

The Gamecocks faced more major questions entering fall camp than just about any other team in the nation. In fact, Carolina was the second youngest and least experienced team in all of division one football this past season.

Thanks in part to a major youth movement and some quality coaching, the Gamecocks did what they needed to do in 2009; get to the seven win mark and beat in-state rival Clemson.

The Gamecocks played very well at Williams-Brice Stadium in 2009, losing only to SEC Eastern Division Champion and two-time BCS Champion Florida. Carolina had a landmark win over No. 4 ranked Ole Miss, the highest ranked opponent the Gamecocks have ever defeated at Williams-Brice.

Carolina defeated Clemson 34-17, the largest margin of victory at home since the 1975 56-20 thrashing.

Young teams do not generally play well on the road and that was the case for the Gamecocks in 2009, as Carolina dropped winnable games versus Georgia, Tenessee and Arkansas, while they could not find the end zone in q 20-6 loss at Alabama. Turnovers and poor tackling and poor special teams play doomed the Gamecocks on the road in 2009, all things to be expected in the SEC from a young team going into hostile territory.

Perhaps the most disappointing defeat came in September against perhaps the worst Georgia team of the decade. The Gamecocks fell 41-37 in a game that was expected to be a low scoring, defensive battle. UGA had excellent field position due to poor kick-off coverage, and scored a touchdown with a kick-off return. Still Carolina was knocking on the door, inside the UGA 10 yard line, but could not punch the ball in for a touchdown. The Gamecocks had earlier missed a costly PAT. If they had been trailing by only, a short field goal could have forced overtime.

But this season did end on a positive note. This team appears to be closer, more focused under the new coaching staff Spurrier assembled in the off-season. Recruiting again appears to be going well, as the Gamecocks look to finish with a flury of national prospects on National signing day.

But if the Gamecocks lose to UConn, has the season still been a success? Yes is my answer. Getting to a bowl winning seven games and beating Clemson makes this 2009 season a success. With all the question marks, early departures for the NFL Draft, and new coaches accomplishing what this team has makes this season one to build on, and one to remember.

Committed Players still considering USC?

2009-12-30T15:13:00.003-05:00

It seems as though each of Steve Spurrier's recruiting classes since he arrived at South Carolina have been dotted with players who made the switch from another school to the Gamecocks. Let's take a look year by year.

2005
TE Johnathan Hannah- Virginia Tech
LB Marvin Sapp- Georgia Tech
CB Carlos Thomas- Georgia Tech
QB Cade Thompson- North Carolina

2006
OL Heath Batchelor- Georgia Tech
OL Ryan Broadhead- East Carolina
LB Eric Norwood- Oklahoma State
DL Joel Reaves - Baylor

2007
DT Ladi Ajiboye- Virginia Tech
FS Chris Culliver- NC State
DE-Clifton Geathers- Georgia
OL Kyle Nunn- Virginia Tech
DL JOhnathan Williams- Mississippi St.
SS Alonzo Winfield- Tennessee

2008
WR Tori Gurley- North Carolina
DE Chaz Sutton - Florida
TE Mike Triglia - Georgia Tech

2009
RB Ben Axon- Clemson
RB Jarvis Giles- Tennessee
LB Chaun Gresham- Georgia Tech
SS DeVonte Holloman- Clemson
WR Alshon Jeffery- Southern Cal
SP DaMario Jeffery- Clemson
DE Leon Mackey- Clemson
SS Chris Payne- Clemson
DB DJ Swearinger- Tennessee
OT Rokevious Watkins- UAB

So, who are the top candidates to make the switch to Carolina for the class of 2010?

While I'm not sure if any prospect is a slam dunk to make the switch to Carolina this year, here is a list of seven candidates to keep an eye on as National Signing Day approaches on February 3rd.

WR Kadron Boone- four-star prospect from Ocala, FL Trinity Catholic HS and former teammate of Gamecock WR Dion Lecorn. Has been committed to Texas Tech, but with the news of Mike Leach's firing earlier today, If USC goes all in for Boone, I think he may be the most likely candidate to be a Gamecock.

DE Tavaris Barnes- four-star prospect from Jacksonville, FL. Has been committed to FSU since the summer. Made two uniffcial visits to Carolina during the season and made an official visit last month. FSU loves the upside of Barnes and are working hard to hold his commitment. USC recruiter Steve Spurrier,Jr. has some help here, including Barnes best friend LB Shaq Wilson. Probably a signing day switch and a longshot to happen.

LB/DE Kendall Moore- four-star prospect from Raliegh, NC. Has been a Notre Dame commit since the summer, but with the firing of Charlie Weis and Corwin Brown, Moore could make a January 15 official visit to Carolina. Moore has an excellent relationship with recruiter Brad Lawing, who had USC in the lead at one point. If Moore does indeed make the visit, I like USC's chances here of turning Moore, who the Gamecocks envision as an Eric Norwood type player that could play in space as an OLB and rush the passer with his hand down.

DT Kyle Woestmann- three-star prospect from Marietta, Ga. Has been committed to Vanderbilt since the summer, and made that commitment with offers from Georgia and Auburn in hand. Woestmann's sister attends UGA. There is a reason why he committed to Vanderbilt- Education. Woestmann is an outstanding player and student. He became more open to visiting USC after making a visit to Williams-Brice Stadium for the USC-Clemson game in November. The crazy atmosphere and direction of the program appealing to the big Defensive lineman, and he plans to make a January 22nd visit to USC. Should Woestmann make that trip, which falls on the weekend afte his Vanderbilt official, then I think the Gamecocks have a legitimate chance to turn him, as fellow Walton HS alumn GA Mangus is working overtime to get Woestmann to Columbia to aid Brad Lawing's Defensive line group. As of this writing, this is strictly a two team race, as Clemson, which was once thought to be a major factor with Woestmann appears to be fading here.

TE Clive Walford- three=star prospect from Belle Glade, FL that committed to Miami in the spring. This is Walford's first year of playing football, and the 6-foot-6 245-pound prospect has a tremendous upside. Again, this appears to be a two team race, as Walford only plans to visit South Carolina in January. TE coach Jeep Hunter and GA Mangus have USC in the thick of it with this Hurricane commitment.

DB Sharrod Golightly- three-star prospect from Decatur, GA that was a summer time commit to Vandy. USC defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward has continued his pursuit and it appears that Golightly will make an official visit to South Carolina on January 22nd.

OL Morgan Moses- four-star prospect who has been committed to Virginia. While I consider the Gamecocks extreme longshots for Moses at the present time, depending on who Steve Spurrier hires to replace Eric Wolford and the timing of that hire, the Gamecocks could still get back in the game for this mammoth mauler, who has dominated the high school and prep school levels. A lot also depends on Morgan and when he can gain admission to his school of choice. I would still consider Moses most likely destination to be UVA, but in recruiting, its never over 'til its over.

OL Coaching search winding down

2009-12-29T16:19:00.003-05:00

It appears as though Steve Spurrier is close to finding his man. Last night on Spurrier's Pappa John's Bowl edition of Carolina Calls, the head ball coach stated that he was close to making a decision on who will replace the departed Eric Wolford as South Carolina's next offensive line coach, and that an announcement could come soon after Carolina returns from Birmingham.

Several names have surfaced since Wolford was named head coach at Youngstown State University. Former Clemson offensive line coach and current Tulsa defensive coordinator Ron West, current Syracuse offensive line coach Greg Adkins, who was offensive line coach at both Georgia under Jim Donnan and Tennessee under Phil Fulmer, where his 2007 offensive line led the nation in fewest sacks allowed. Adkins is 42 years old and considered an excellent recruiter, which fits the Wolford mold. Several other names have surfaced in relation to the position, including former Notre Dame OL coach Frank Verducci and most recently App. State OL coach Shawn Elliott, a Camden, SC native and lifelong Gamecock fan.

Tony Morrell of TheBigSpur.com reported earlier today that Elliott interviewed yesterday wit head coach Steve Spurrier and 2010 offensive coordinator GA Mangus.

Elliott replaced current UGA OL coach Stacey Searels as offensive line coach at App. State and has produced over twice as many All-Americans as the former LSU assistant produced at his stint in Boone. Elliott is also considered an outstanding recruiter and position coach and is well versed in running the zone read and read option blocking schemes.

Footballscoop.com reported yesterday that as many as 20 NFL coaches, probably ranging from OL coaches to quality control assistants have shown interest in the position. Two current assistant offensive line coaches that could be in the mix are Atlanta Falcon assistant Paul Dunn, a collegiate veteran with over 20 years experience who has also coached in the SEC at Vandy. Former Lower Richland product Harold Godwin, who is the assistant OL coach for the Detroit Lions could also be in the mix. Godwin walked on at Michigan and became a starter. He was also the offensive line coach at Eastern Michigan before making the jump to the NFL.

The man I would like to see Steve Spurrier hire is Vanderbilt offensive line coach Robbie Caldwell. Last year at this time, Caldwell was the odds on favorite and top candidate to replace John Hunt. However, after giving it much consideration Caldwell decided to stay at Vanderbilt. I have been told my some close to Caldwell that there were promises made that can no longer be kept and that the Pageland,SC native would jump at the chance to return to South Carolina and finish his career as a Gamecock.

The big question is, will Steve Spurrier's ego allow him to go back and ask a man that turned him down last year to take the same position? If Spurrier can bring himself to ask Caldwell, my sources indicate the veteran OL coach will be on his way to Columbia.

Caldwell has strong recruiting ties to the state of South Carolina from his years at Furman University (1978-85) and his stint at NC State (1986-1999) under Dick Sheridan and Mike O'Cain, where hs produced 14 All-ACC offensive linemen. Caldwell followed O'Cain to UNC- Chapel Hill, where he coached for two seasons before making the move to Vanderbilt with his long-itme friend Bobby Johnson.

Caldwell is very well respected in coaching circles and while he is older than Wolford, he is considered a players coach and father figure, who is a great teacher of fundamentals.

One thing is for certain, South Carolina is becoming a popular place to coach under Steve Spurrier, as the HBC is famous for allowing his coaches family time and treating them well. Who ever is selected by Spurrier to lead the offensive line will be a quality coach and person, and the Gamecocks offensive line should continue to move forward under that coach's direction.

South Carolina All-Decade Team - Defense

2009-12-24T13:27:00.003-05:00

DE- Cliff Matthews- The Cheraw native is not only one of my favorite all-time Gamecocks because of his humble demeanor, but also his high energy motor and desire to be the best. Matthews was a second team All-SEC selection this year, and had he not been injured and missed most of two full games, he may have been 1st team All-SEC, an honor that I doubt escapes Matthews in 2010.

DT- Langston Moore- Another of my all-time favorite players at USC. Moore was a constant nightmare for centers and guards during his career at Carolina and was a big reason why USC had nationally ranked defenses.

DT- Nathan Pepper- The Greenville HS standout has been a steady force on the defensive line since the 2006 season. Pepper will be the first Gamecock player to play in four bowl games when he lines up on Jan. 2nd in the Pappa John's Bowl against UConn. Pepper was a 245 pound under valued DE when he arrived at USC in 2005 as a part of Spurrier's first recruiting class. Ron Cooper found a diamond in the rough when he evaluated and signed Pepper, whose only other commitable offer was Kentucky. I think a lot more teams wish they had offered the now 290- plus pound DT.

DE- Kalimba Edwards- While the 6'6 260 pounder was listed as a LB, he was really a walk-up DE, who primarily played on the line of scrimmage. Edwards was two-time All-SEC and in 2001 earned All-American honors. Had 15 career sacks.

OLB- Eric Norwood- Norwood came back for his senior season, after first announcing he would leave early for the NFL. It turned out to be a great decision for Norwood and USC. The Acworth, GA standout will leave Carolina as a three time first team All-SEC performer by the SEC coaches, he has the record for sacs and tackles for loss in a career, and he was named first team All-American by The Walter Camp Foundation and the Associated Press. Norwood should also go much higher in the 2010 NFL Draft.

MLB- Jasper Brinkley- Brinkley made an instant impact when he arrived in 2006 from Georgia Military Junior College, starting every game and being named unanimously to the first team All-SEC. Brinkley recorded over 100 tackles as a junior and was primed for an All-American year in 2007, but his season came to an end with a knee injury at LSU. Carolina's struggles down the stretch in the '07 season could partially be attributed to his loss, as well as Sidney Rice's early departure for the NFL Draft.

ILB- Kenny Harney- The Allendale native starred in the 2000 and 2001 seasons for The Gamecock defense. HE was known for hard hits and his steady sideline to sideline play. Carolina really did not replace his presence in the lineup until Brinley arrived in '06.

DB- Sheldon Brown- What a tremendous find by current USC assistant Brad Lawing,who was recruiting coordinator under former head coach Brad Scott. A high school running back at tiny Lewisville HS, Brown developed into an All-SEC performer, and has had a stellar NFL career, earning All-Pro honors for the Philadelphia Eagles.

DB- Dunta Robinson- The highest selected Gamecock DB in the NFL Draft, going 10th overall to the Houston TExans, Robinson was a great find by former Carolina assistant coach Buddy Pough. Coming out of Athens, GA, Robinson's only BCS offer was South Carolina. Robinson was a lock don defender, who could have also excelled as a return man, but was too valuable to risk injury.

DB- Rashad Faison- While the diminutive 5'9 spur safety never made it to the NFL, Faison was a stalwart on Carolina defenses from 2000-2002. Faison is the all-time leader in unassisted tackles and recorded 27.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks as s DB.

DB- Ko Simpson- The Rock Hill native was a late qualifier and as a result was grey-shirted as a freshman in 2003. Simpson started every game in 2004 and 2005, earning Freshman All-American Honors and All-SEC honors both years. Simpson decided to leave early for the NFL Draft following the 2005 season and now plays for the Detroti Lions. The one thing I remember about Simpson is his nose for the football and uncanny natural football instincts. He could find a fumble in a pile and come out the other side and go the distance for a TD, or get a pick 6 as easy as any player I have ever seen play.

P/PK Ryan Succop- What a tremendous leg. Succop's ability to kick the ball out of the end zone was sorely missed, as Gamecock fans had become spoiled at the number of touch backs Succop recorded over the course of his career. Was also an excellent punter. The one kick I will always remember was the 55 yarder at Vanderbilt in 2006. That kick would have been good from close to 70 yards out.

USC All Decade Team- Offense

2009-12-23T15:19:00.002-05:00

While I agree with many of The State's all decade selections, I would differ with just a few, so here goes. I based my selections on their overall impact on the Gamecock program, post season recognition, and NFL potential.

OFFENSE

TE- Weslye Saunders- While Cook is the more popular selection, I beleive Saunders is more of a true TE, while Cook played flexed like a slot receiver for much of his career. Saunders makes a major impact in every game when he is actually part of the game plan. Saunders still needs to improve on his blocking but has the potential to be a 1st round draft pick after a productive senior season. I also can't really forgive Cook for checking out early. Saunders wanted the ball in his hands late in the season, and was vocal about it. The coaching staff listened and Saunders delivered, scoring on a highlight reel catch against Florida and then picking up two TD grabs against Clemson.

LT- Travelle Wharton- what can you say about Wharton? He started for four straight seasons, earning All-SEC twice and is now a standout in the NFL.

LG- Cedric Williams- Williams was named first team All-SEC following his senior season and was a three year starter for the Gamecocks

C-NaShon Goddard- While the big man from Ohio only played center as a freshman, he showed his versatility, playing tackle and guard over the next three seasons. He was a four year starter and has been a journeyman in the NFL. Goddard was a basketball player that picked up football late in high school, but was considered one of the top OL's from the buckeye state. Great job of recruiting by Todd Fitch to steal Goddard away as a late signee.

RG- Shane Hall- Hall was a part of Lou Holtz's first recruiting class at South Carolina and the big NJ product enjoyed a fine career for the Gamecocks and led the way for Carolina running backs on the two Outback Bowl teams, earning All-SEC honors.

RT- Melvin Paige- A former Tuba player in the Dillon band, Paige was actually recruited to Carolina by current defensive line coach Brad Lawing during the Brad Scott Era. Paige developed into an excellent tackle prospect under the tutelage of current Miami Dolhins OL coach Dave De Gugelielmo.

WR- Sidney Rice- Was a dominant performer for two years before leaving early for the NFL. Is currently having an All-Pro season with the Minnesota Vikings and probably living a dream catching passes from Brett Favre. What would Rice's numbers been like had he played three or four seasons in Columbia? WOW!

WR- Kenny McKinley- USC's all-time leding receiver. Enjoyed an excellent four year career, despite an injury plagued senior season. Was drafted by the Denver Bronco's and saw spot duty this season as a receiver and punt recturner.

QB- Phil Petty- Petty will always be remembered and revered by Gamecock fans as the QB that led Carolina out of a 1-21 two season nightmare. Petty was not spectacular and did not possess a bigtime arm, but what Petty brought to the table was the intangibles of leadership and heady play that separates the really good QB's with the rest of the pack. Petty was the guy that would stay out of the bad play. He would get Carolina into a good play by changing the call at the line of scrimmage, something coach Spurrier would like to see Stephen Garcia do more of. Petty was also on eof the best at throwing the ball away instead of taking a sack, again something GA Mangus and Spurrier are working with Garcia on. Petty lead Carolina to 8-4, 9-3 seasons as a junior and senior. His career culminated in winning the 202 Outback Bowl MVP award, but two games as a senior standout, Petty lede Carolina down the field in a 14-9 comeback win against Georgia, completing a TD pass to Brian Scott late in the game to provide the difference. Petty also had a career day against Alabama in Williams-Brice Stadium, leading Carolina to a come from behind 37-35 win against the Crimson Tide.

RB- Derek Watson- Watson played a large role in Carolina's turnaround in 2000-01, but had a trouble plagued career off the field that led to an early departure from Carolina. Watson rushed for over 1000 yards as a sophomore in 2000, leading a strong ground game from the spread offense that helped propel the Gamecocks to a 7-4 record. Watson also blocked two punts in the Swamp that had Carolina ahead 21-3 in the first quarter.

RB- Corey Boyd- An after thought in the recruiting class of 2002 to Demetris Summers, Boyd proved to be the better back, completing an excellent career as a Gamecock. The Orange, NJ native had over 2000 yards rushing and over 1000 yards receiving. I remember Steve Spurrier, Jr. saying that Boyd was the only player that he had ever seen that had the skill set that would allow him to be a full-time WR or RB. Boyd had a shifty running style and sure hands out of the backfield. He never shied away from contact, and who will ever forget the head to head collision he had with a Virginia DB as a true freshman? That hit ended the young man from UVA's football career.

Coming tomorrow, the All-Decade Defense!

Floyd off the board

2009-12-21T17:44:00.005-05:00

South Carolina's courtship of five star defensive tackle Shariff Foyd came to an abrupt end today. According to ESPN recruiting analyst JC Shurburtt, Floyd has canceled his January 15th official visit to Columbia and will make his decision final on January 9th when he makes his college choice on NBC during the U.S. Army All-American game.

Give credit to Carolina assistant GA Mangus for keeping the Gamecocks in the game as ling as he has. I have been impressed with Mangus approach on the recruiting trail, and personally believe before this recruiting cycle comes to an end, Mangus will land some big-time prospects for the Gamecocks.

To be in the game with the No. 1 DT prospect according to rivals.com this late in the game is a credit to the tenacity and recruiting prowess of Mangus. Lets face it, it is difficult for a 7-5 team, and that what carolina is over the past 5 years...a 7-6 program under Steve Spurrier to go into a different region of the country and pull out a defensive tackle, when Florida, Ohio State, and Southern Cal are hot his trail and have received official visits. Still, as late as last Thursday evening, word out of the Gamecock camp was that they thought they were in the game and in Floyd's top 3, without the benefit of an official visit.

Floyd made his fourth official visit this past weekend to Chapel Hill. I'm sure defensive line coach John Blake was not too flattering in his portrayal of South Carolina. I doubt Butch Davis heaped much praise on the Ole Ball Coach either.

It never ceases to amaze me the things one hears out of Chapel Hill. They don't want to play South Carolina in football, becuase they realize they probably can't win, yet they recruit this state with fervor. I won't get into all the specifics I have heard about Blake's tactics, but lets just say that he is not the most positive recruiter out there, nor the most honest.

Yet, I digress.

Now, where does that leave South Carolina for defensive linemen in this recruiting cycle? Outside of Marietta, GA, Walton HS standout and current Vanderbilt commit Kyle Woestmann, I don't really see the Gamecocks as major players for any other defensive line prospects. Five star DE Ego Ferguson has yet to schedule an official visit with South Carolina, and despite the efforts of Carolina assistant coach Jay Graham, USC appears to be on the outside looking in for Ferguson. The Gamecocks were scheduled to receive a January 15th visit from Warner Robbins HS four star standout Jeff Whitaker, but since the departure of Eric Wolford, I doubt that visit takes place. The Gamecocks were trailing Auburn and Georgia for Whitaker before Wolford left.

Should the Gamecocks sign only two defensive line prospects, this will be two classes in a row that they have come up short at that position. Last season, Chaz Sutton and Ronald Byrd were the only two DL prospects to enroll at Carolina. Defensive end Leon Mackey's failure to qualify for enrollment was a crushing blow.

Carolina will look to the class of 2011 and for the defensive line, the city of Rock Hill South Carolina, where big-time DE Jadaveon Clowney and Gerald Dixon and his brother Gerald Dixon reside. DE Roderick Byers is also a Rock Hill native that could receive an offer from the Gamecocks.

In Manning, SC 2011 DT Phillip Dukes will be a major priority for defensive line coach Brad Lawing. The Gamecocks should also be major players to resign Mackey, provided his academics are in order.

Strong Recruiting Finish in store for Gamecocks?

2009-12-20T17:57:00.005-05:00

The Gamecocks are looking to make a strong run to the finish line for the second consecutive season. With 19 commitments already secured, Carolina is in strong shape with several National level prospects as Steve Spurrier looks to put together back to back top 15 classes.

In this edition of The Cockfather Illustrated Blog, I take a look at

South Carolina's Ten Most Wanted List.

1) Marcus Lattimore RB 5'11 205 Byrnes HS, Duncan, SC - Without a doubt, Lattimore is, and has been the top prospect on the Carolina 2010 recruiting board for the better part of two years. Lattimore is the complete package as a running back. The Byrnes spread offense has allowed the 2009 Mr. Football award winner to display his skills as an instinctive runner, with natural abilities to cut and great field vision comparable to Emmit Smith and Barry Sanders. Lattimore is also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, playing with the ball skills of an elite WR. The creativity of former head coach and current offensive coordinator Bobby Bentley has also allowed LAttmore to show off his ability to run the wild-cat formation, taking direct snaps from center. The U.S. Army All-American will announce his college destination on Feb 2nd at his church, the day before National Signing Day.

The Favorite- South Carolina
The Darkhorse- Auburn

2) Johnavon Fulton CB 6'1 180 Manning HS, Manning, SC- Fulton is one of the nation's best all purpose CB prospects. With great size and speed, Fulton showed off his abilities at the Shrine Bowl of the Carolina's and came away rated as the top overall performer by ESPN recruiting analyst JC Shurburtt. A candidate for mid-year enrollment, The Under Armour All-American is set to announce his decision on Jan 2nd. Alabama and South Carolina are in a virtual dead heat, but Nick Saban's in-home visit may still have Bama slightly in front. Even with a Jan. 2nd announcement, this one will likely go down to signing day as Lorenzo Ward and Shane Beamer will not relent in their pursuit of Fulton. Obviously, if Fulton is a mid-year enrollee, either Bama or Carolina will have less time to change his mind, Florida is also a finalist for the services of Fulton.

The Favorite- Bama by a hair
The Darkhorse- Carolina could still lead.

3) Justin Parker LB 6'2 220 Beaufort HS, Beaufort, SC- Parker is the top rated linebacker in the Palmetto State this season. The Shrine Bowl selection displayed why is one of the top inside linebacker prospects in the southeast this past week at the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. Parker plays with football speed, and has great natural instincts and is a big hitter. MLB is a position of need for Carolina in this class, and the Gamecocks have been relentless in their pursuit of the Beaufort standout. Parker already has two former teammates in Columbia in Devin Taylor and Jimmy Legree. I'll be surprised if Parker is not a Gamecock when all is said and done, and he will be a bigtime pickup for Carolina, as LSU Defensive Coordinator John Chavis has made Parker a priority in Baton Rouge. Carolina's gain would also be a big loss for Clemson, as the Tigers have devoted a lot of time in their recruitment of Parker.

The Favorite- Carolina
The Darkhorse-Watch out for LSU

4) Ace Sanders WR 5'9 165 Manatee HS Bradenton, FL- Carolina QB coach GA Mangus is known as one of the top recruiters in the greater Tampa, FL area, and he is hoping to pull in a big-time slot receiver in the mold of Reggie Demps in Manatee standout Ace Sanders. Sanders recently torched the Nation's top rated HS team in Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas HS, and their top rated CB's LaMarcus Joyner, Cody Riggs, and Keion Payne. While Sanders is rated as a 4 star prospect by Rivals, I still feel he is undervalued, and would be a steal for Carolina, who have recently moved to the front for his services due to the efforts of Ace recruiter (no pun intended) GA Mangus. If the Gamecocks can hold off South Florida and West Virginia, they may have one of the biggest steals from the sunshine state in this class.

The Favorite- South Carolina
The Darkhorse- USF

5) Ego Ferguson DE 6'3 270 Frederick, MD Hargrave Military Academy- arguably the top prep defensive line prospect in the country, the Gamecocks are still in the mix for the services of this five star prospect, although I would consider him a longshot at this point, as the Gamecocks have yet to nail down an official visit. Carolina does have connections to Ferguson's family, as his uncle played for Steve Spurrier at Florida. Jay Graham should be commended for the work he has put in, but pending an official visit, the Gamecocks are on the outside looking in. One thing to keep an eye on is the decision of DT Shariff Floyd. A source told me recently that Ferguson may decide to follow Floyd and both attend the same school. Should Floyd choose South Carolina, then I do think the Gamecocks will be major players for Ferguson.

The Favorite- LSU
The Darkhorse- South Carolina

6) Victor Hampton CB 5'11 170 Charlotte, NC Darlington HS (SC)- Hampton was an early commitment to the Florida Gators. However, when he got into some trouble and transferred from Independence HS in Charlotte to Darlington HS, where his mother lives, UF dropped him from their commitment list. Hmapton has officially visited South Carolina and assistants Ellis Johnson and Lorenzo Ward have done their due diligence in making the decision that Floyd is a take. The U.S. Army All-American is set to announce his decision at the Army AA game in San Antonio on Jan. 9th. There are rumors that Florida is making a late push and that Tennessee remains an option for Hampton. This looks to be a big get for The Gamecocks, and his announcement on NBC will be big for Carolina.

The Favorite- South Carolina
The Darkhorse- Florida

7) Jeremy Deering WR/FS 6'2 205 Leto HS, Tampa. FL- Once again, Carolina is hoping to take advantage of assistant coach GA Mangus's strong ties to the Tampa area and pull out another big-time play maker. Deering is capable of playing receiver or a number of positions on defense. The Leto standout will make a January 15th official visit to Columbia, which will come on the heels of a visit to FSU. Deering has made official visits to Illinois and Purdue, and is set to visit Rutgers on Jan. 22nd. Deering is a bit of a free spirit and no one really knows which school he will choose on Feb 3rd, but the Gamecocks are in strong position due to the relationship Deering has formed with Mangus.

The Favorite- FSU
The Darkhorse- South Carolina

8) Tavaris Barnes DL 6'4 245 First Coast HS Jacksonville, FL- Barnes has been committed to FSU since the summer, but his relationship with Gamecock linebacker Shaq Wilson has kept Carolina on his mind. The big DL prospect could play either end or tackle, depending on how much more weight his 6'4 frame will carry once he arrives on campus. Barnes has a very high ceiling and Carolina DL coach Brad Lawing would love to have someone with Barnes tools to develop with the impending graduation of Cliff Matthews, Clifton Geathers and Ladi Ajiboye following the 2010 season. Jacksonville recruiter Steve Spurrier, Jr. has strong ties to the first coast program, and Carolina is a factor in Barnes final decision. It will be hard to pull Barnes away from the 'Noles, but the Gamecocks do have staying power and we won't really know until NSD.

The Favorite- FSU
The Darkhorse- South Carolina

9) Kendall Moore LB 6'3 232 Southeast HS Raleigh, NC - Has been committed to Notre Dame since July. However, with the firing of Charlie Weis and the dismissal of co-defensive coordinator Corwin Brown, the door has been opened slightly, as the big OLB has re-opened his recruitment. While still claiming to be a ND commit, Moore took an official visit to NC State over the weekend. He has tentatively set a Jan. 15th date for an official visit to South Carolina. Should Moore take that trip, I think the Gamecocks will have a legitimate shot at turning Moore. One additional factor to consider is that The Gamecocks plan to take only one more LB in this class, and The Gamecocks would prefer Justin Parker to be that guy. Still, a talent like Moore may be an over-sign candidate.

The Favorite- Notre Dame
The Darkhorse- South Carolina

10) Kyle Woestmann DT 6'3 265 Walton HS Marrietta, GA- Woestmann has been a Vanderbilt commitment since the summer. That has not stopped fellow Walton HS Alumnus GA Mangus in his pursuit of the big DT prospect. Clemson is also still in hot pursuit of Woestmann, who recently was selected to the Georgia N-S All-Star game. In fact, some recruiting insiders believe Woestmann's final decision could come down to the two Palmetto State schools. Woestmann has yet to set a date for his official visit to Columbia, but Mangus is pushing for the Jan. 15th weekend, when the majority of Carolina's commitments and top uncommitted prospects will be in town.

The Favorite- Vanderbilt
The Darkhorse- South Carolina and Clemson

Returning to the blog, a shout out, and a season recap

2009-12-20T10:37:00.006-05:00

Hi guys! I know it has been a while since I have used my blog to talk about the Gamecocks. Well, after moving half way across the country last October (from Greenville, SC to Austin, TX), starting a new job, getting married, buying a house in the suburbs, and getting adjusted to the Texas weather, I am now settled into my new life and ready to start back recording my thoughts on the Gamecocks.

First of all, I must say how proud I am of TheBigSpur.com. While I am no longer a publisher or have any ownership in the site I started with JC Shurburtt in the fall of 2007, I continue to be proud that TBS has now become the preeminent site for all things Gamecock on the world wide web. Adding a good friend like Tony Morrell was pure genius on the part of JC and JBKingmancock. With Tony, JC, Josh Low, and Bill Gunter, and the media staff added, you really can't find a better team site on the web. John Whittle's coverage of Carolina baseball and baseball recruiting is unparalleled. I am so proud of those guys and all they are doing to totally outclass and out-scoop the other sites that cover the Gamecocks. If you are not a member and you want real Gamecock information, sign up immediately.

With a new coaching hire upcoming, recruiting season shifting into high gear, and basketball team news, it is a great time to join TheBigSpur.com

Now, on to the Gamecocks.

What a roller coaster ride the 2009 season was. But could we have really expected anything different with such a young football team? There were so many unknowns about this team heading into the season. Carolina had a very unproven quarterback, no real experience at running back, and a largely unproven receiving corps. And there was also a group of offensive linemen that had managed to be last in the SEC in rushing and first in sacks allowed to be molded by a new OL coach.

Who knew the new QB coach GA Mangus would do such a great job with Sophomore QB Stephen Garcia? The last time Gamecock fans saw Garcia was a 4 turnover performance in the first half of the 2009 Outback Bowl, which saw the Gamecocks embarrassed by Iowa. However, to Garcia's credit, he showed signs of being the QB The Gamecock Nation and coaching staff thought he would be when he was signed in the 2007 recruiting class. Garcia finished the 2009 second in the SEC in passing, with over 2700 yards, with 17 TD passes and only 9 interceptions. Garcia capped the regular season with a 3 TD pass performance against ACC division champion Clemson.

The Gamecock receiving corps was lead by a pair of freshmen in Tori Gurley and All-American Alshon Jeffery, who was named to numerous freshmen All- American teams. Senior Moe Brown capped his Carolina career with a consistent season, something the Anderson,SC native had not been able to do in his first three seasons.

TE Weslye Saunders also showed great promise early in the season, then capped off his junior year, with TD catches against both Florida and Clemson. Saunder has 1st round NFL ability and should be an integral part of the Gamecock passing attack in 2010.

As for the offensive line, it is still clearly a work in progress, and progress was seen in the final two games of the season against a couple of highly touted defensive fronts. Against both Florida and Clemson, the Gamecocks were able to run the football, especially against in-state rival Clemson, as the Carolina ground attack ran rushed for 223 yards, the most by far against any quality opponent.

I feel great for senior Lem Jeanpierre, who finally flourished on the OL at center in his final season as a Gamecock. The biggest surprise had to be the emergence of walk-on guard Garrett Chisholm. The 6-foot-6 290-pound transfer from Pikeville College started at left guard down the stretch and was perhaps the most physical lineman on the roster. Redshirt freshman TJ Johnson was the only player to start every game.

On the other hand, the most disappointing player has to be Jarriel King, who after starting 10 games at left tackle last year, was plagued by inconsistency under first year line coach Eric Wolford and was replaced by Soph. Kyle Nunn. This unit still lacks the strength and physicality to perform at a high level. A great off season under the direction of strength coach Craig Fitzgerald will be needed if the Gamecocks are to make a jump at this position.

Look for redshirt JC prospect Rokevious Watkins to be in the starting lineup in 2010, along with Quintin Richardson, Chisholm, and TJ Johnson. Richardson could make the move to center or Johnson could slide over from his right guard position. The tackle positions will be manned by Watkins, Nunn, Hutch Eckerson, and King.

The good news is that despite the fact that Wolford left for Youngstown State after only eight months on the job, it appears that all seven of Carolina's OL commits will stick. AJ Cann was a standout at the Shrine Bowl of the Carolina's this past week and could come in and vie for playing time at center or guard as a true freshman. Other possibilities include guards Eric Mack and DuVon Millsap. Both possess the size and strength necessary to play in the SEC, but only time will tell. Obviously, both would benefit from a redshirt year to adjust to the speed of the SEC.

Defensively, Ellis Johnson also had a laundry list of issues to deal with as well. Carolina's assistant head coach for defense had to break in a new secondary, excluding Chris Culliver at free safety and a new middle linebacker. Players like Akeem Auguste, CC Whitlock, and a trio of true freshmen in Stephon Gilmore, Devonte Holloman, and DJ Swearinger would be depended on to fill major rolls in 2009.

All exceeded my expectations, and while the Carolina secondary, under the direction of first year coach Lorenzo Ward, did not have very many interceptions, they were a part of a unit that finished thrid in the SEC in total defense behind only Florida and Alabama.

Defensive line coach Brad Lawing promised he would change the DNA of the D-Line when he came to Carolina. He has done that, as the Gamecocks boast one of the Nation's most athletic groups of down linemen and fierce pass rushers in Cliff Matthews, Eric Norwood, Devin Taylor, and Clifton Geathers, who played his best football down the home stretch of the 2009 season.

Carolina's interior D-Linemen also had a very productive year, despite the early season loss of starter Travian Robertson. Converted linebacker Melvin Ingram stepped in and had an excellent year, along with a trimmed down Ladi Ajiboye. What can you say about Nathan Pepper? The 295 pound senior from Greenville HS will be the first player in Carolina history to play in four bowl games. Pepper has been one of my favorite Gamecocks over the course of his career. Pep has been a stalwart at defensive tackle. His consistent effort and stellar play was a big reason why Carolina's defense was third in the SEC this season.

While Darian Stewart did not have the type of senior season the coaches would have liked to have seen, the Huntsville, AL native did show up big down the stretch when he was moved back to his more natural SPUR position. I look for DaMario Jeffery to take over that role and be a standout defensively for the Gamecocks. Jeffery has the potential to be the type of player that Florida, Alabama, and Southern Cal have played at OLB. If the Gamecocks can get some good play from rising Sophomore Reggie Bowens and JC signee Toquavius Gilchrist, along with returning players like Shaq Wilson, Rodney Paulk and Josh Dickerson, the Gamecocks could very well have the top defense in the SEC in 2010.

There are a lot of promising young Gamecocks on defense that will return in 2010 that did not play major roles this year like Chaz Sutton, Aldrick Fordham, Quin Smith, Jimmy Legree, and Chaun Gresham just to name a few.

So, there are some thoughts on the 2009 season. I hope you enjoy reading them. I hope to see you all in Birmingham for the Pappa Johns Bowl on Jan. 2nd. Lets start the new year with a Gamecock win for the first time since 2002.

Gamecocks Dominated In-State

2008-02-03T12:05:00.000-05:00

Like it or not Carolina fans, the Gamecocks were dominated in the in-state recruiting battles for the Class of 2008. With the exception of Chester cornerback/ receiver Charles Whitlock, the Gamecocks were shut out among the State's top 10 ranked players by most recruiting services. TheBigSpur.com did have OL T.J. Johnson ranked among the top 10 prospects in South Carolina.

Consensus top 10 prospects like A.J. Green, Daquan Bowers, Robert Quinn, and Dalton Freeman did not even make official visits to South Carolina.

Clemson is on the brink of having their best recruiting class in school history, and one that will further cement the talent base in the upstate. Clemson had a built in advantage with some prospects in SC this year, like Bowers, who had a relative play at Clemson and grew up a lifelong Clemson fan. Loris linebacker Jonathan Willard also had a family member play for the Tigers in the Danny Ford era. Dalton Freeman's dad, and his high school coach and Clemson OL coach Brad Scott are longtime friends, and that had a major impact on his recruiting.

Right or wrong, the Gamecocks chose not to pursue Berkeley runningback Andre Ellington and backed off A.C. Flora offensive lineman Kenneth Page. How bad can Page be? Certainly he has to be better than Justin Sorensen, Web Brown, and Gurminder Thind. Only time will tell.

When it seems like the weakness of the offense is the offensive line, the Gamecocks would look to sign more than two offensive linemen. Yet the Gamecocks passed on Wilmington, NC mammoth offensive tackle Nick Becton (VT), Page, offensive guards David Spurlock, and Rhonne Sanderson, the brother of former USC lineman Watts Sanderson, both of whom committed to FSU. Three of Spurrier's four recruiting classes will have two offensive line recruits or less.

What went so wrong for the Gamecocks only one year after reeling in the nations No. 4 recruiting class, acording to ESPN.com? Was it more a case of the stars lining up for the Gamecocks last year? I would say that Carolina caught lightning in a bottle last year as it was a perfect storm, so to speak. In 2007 both UNC and NC State were not only suffering through poor seasons, but both changed head coaches, which allowed the Gamecocks to load up on the top talent in that state.

In the sunshine state, Miami and FSU both had about a dozen schlarships to give, and Miami also had a coaching change. There were also a trio of highly touted prospects in the Midlands that the Gamecocks scored early commitment from, when Gary Gray and Quintin Richardson both cast their lot with the Gamecocks in the spring of 2007. Even though Mark Barnes did not go public with a commitment, it was known that he was going to choose South Carolina, and had tried to commit several times to former recruiter Rick Stockstill since the summer of 2005. Even though Gray ended up at Notre Dame, he was a national recruit and openly campaigned for other top prospects to join him at South Carolina. That got the momentum started early. Gray, Richardson and Barnes all attended the Gainesville, Fla. Nike camp to try and recruit prospects like quarterback Stephen Garcia, who eventually chose South Carolina.

It was the perfect storm for the Gamecocks, who also finished the season on a three game winning streak, and were very competitive in losses to Tennessee, Arkansas, and eventual national champion Florida. That momentum and the talk of winning the SEC propelled Spurrier and the Gamecocks to a great class.

This season it appeared that momentum would carry over. Despite losing Sidney Rice early to the NFL, and Jasper Brinkley and Nathan Pepper to season ending injuries, the Gamecocks were 6-1 and ranked 6th in the BCS poll. Then the wheels fell off the Spurrier express.

After narrowly avoiding a collapse in the second half at Chapel Hill, the Gamecocks came back home and laid an egg in losing 17-6 to Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt. Freaking Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks would not reach the end zone, committing early turnovers and displaying themost horrific offensive line performance I have ever seen.

The next week, Carolina fell behind Tennessee 21-0 before rallying for an apparent win. Then, once again, the Gamecocks snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, and lost in overtime.

Carolina was not really competitve on defense in losses to Arkansas and Florida, but had a great chance to defeart Clemson, before allowing Clemson to escape 3rd and 18 and 4th and 4 on their way to driving the length of the field inthe final two minutes for a last second victory. An injury depleted secondary could not stop Aaron Kelley on the final drive, and thus Steve Spurrier had a five game losing streak, and the Gamecocks would be home for the holidays.

Not only did the season go south for the winter, but so did recruiting. Carolina lost a lot of appeal nationally with several prospects that had strong interest in South Carolina due to their lofty national ranking.

A coaching shake up delayed offers to several prospects and left the Gamecocks two recruiters short the final week of the December recruiting period.

As the Gamecocks crawl toward the finish line of this recruiting season, there are four names left on the Gamecock recruitng board. Receiver Tommy Streeter, defensive ends Devin Taylor and Chaz Sutton, and transfer athlete D.J. Donley. By monday afternoon, the fate of Streeter, Taylor and Sutton will be known. By all accounts the Donely transfer will be official in March, when the Folkston, GA native is expected to enroll at South Carolina.

The 2008 season will be critical to the future success of the Spurrier era at South Carolina. A return to eight or more wins and a bowl game and the ship should be righted. But another step back with a 6-6 season and no bowl game, and the talk of Spurrier winning an SEC title at South Carolina will be all but forgotten and the future success of the program in doubt.

Spring Practice should be interesting. Stay tuned.

Smelley steps into leadership role

2007-09-27T07:05:00.000-04:00

Blake Mitchell is talented, there can be no questioning that. His performance at the end of last season and what he did in 2005 speaks for its self. However, one thing Blake Mitchell cannot be called is a leader. Mitchell's off the field antics and repeated troubles with law enforcement, the athletic department, and with coach Spurrier are all well documented. The purpose of this blog is not to rehash them, but simply to state that at most successful program, the quarterback is the leader of the team. Generally that means that his teammates hold that player in high regard.

The leader of a football team is not always a vocal leader, but is always a person and player that leads by example. Two cases in point are Steve Taneyhill and Phil Petty. Taneyhill was a boisterous leader, a rah-rah cheerleader guy that played the game with great emotion. How many will ever forget the home run swings and him signing the paw in Death Valley?

Sure, Taneyhill liked to have a good time, but his teammates loved him because of the passion he had for the game. You could see it every time he took the field. Steve developed his leadership skills as he matured and develop during his career. He was not a saint, but he didn't make it a habit of getting into trouble either. Taneyhill is one of my all time favorite Gamecocks.

There couldn't be anyone more un-like Steve Taneyhill than Phil Petty. Phil was a quiet kid that took his lumps at Carolina early on, but never complained. In 2000 and 2001, Phil Petty led the Gamecocks to the best back to back seasons in the history of Carolina football. Phil was not spectacular, but he knew when to throw the ball away to avoid a sack, and he never made a catastrophic play to cost the team a football game. Phil was quiet, but because of his work ethic and the way he approached the game, his teammates believed in him. In 2001 at Georgia, after the Dawgs took a late lead, Petty went into the huddle and said, "let's go win the football game."

Petty did just that, leading the Gamecocks on a touchdown drive that culminated on his touchdown pass to Brian Scott for a 14-9 victory that night in Athens. Phil capped his career with an MVP performance in the Outback Bowl. He went out a big winner.

Chris Smelley is neither Steve Taneyhill, Phil Petty or Blake Mitchell. For that matter, he is not Danny Wuerfell either. But Chris Smelley does have all the right stuff that leaders are made of. He has a quiet confidence about him. That was evident in post game interviews last weekend in Baton Rouge. Smelley appears ready for this weekend's game against Mississippi State. He carries himself like a winner. His post practice interview spoke volumes of his confidence and character. I was extremely impressed.

As a 14 year coaching veteran, sometimes it is easy for me to see some things other fans may not notice, or to have a feel for certain things going on in the program. My observation from the press box in Baton Rouge was that the offense had a quicker tempo when Smelley came into the game. The offensive line seemed to play with a greater sense of urgency and with a quicker tempo. They hustled up to the line of scrimmage, and the protection was better in the second half.

My feel for the situation is that the players respect Chris Smelley. He is a person that is worthy to lead this football team. Chris Smelley has never made headlines since his arrival at USC. That is because he's never been caught underage drinking in 5 points, or running from the law, slugging a bouncer, or keying a visiting professor's car for taking his parking spot. Those are the things that get you in the headlines at The State newspaper.

Chris Smelley is a fine christian young man. I have been told that he is a leader at all FCA events and that he prays for others. Chris Smelley walks the walk. Smelley is also an excellent student and his GPA bears that out. Smelley is also a student of the game. He studies film, he diagrams plays and goes over defenses. When he was in high school, Smelley played in a no huddle spread offense, and his coach had so much confidence in him that he allowed Smelley to call his own plays from his sophomore year on. (Smelley started as an 8th grader on the varsity at Tuscaloosa American Christian Academy)

I have to admit, I am anxiously awaiting Saturday's game and seeing what Smelley is capable of doing versus a good Mississippi State defense. I'm looking forward to how much Spurrier opens up the offense. I'm looking forward to seeing Chris Culliver, Mark Barnes, and Dion Lecorn making some plays on offense and special teams. I'm looking forward to seeing how Tyrone Nix and the USC defense responds to losing Brinkley, and to see Marvin Sapp and Melvin Ingram at the Mike linebacker spot.

It is a great time to be a Gamecock. See you on Saturday at The Brice!

Brinkley's injury deflates fan base

2007-09-25T00:29:00.000-04:00

Monday was not a great day to be a Gamecock. Instead, after hearing the news that All-SEC and All-America Candidate Jasper Brinkley had been lost for the season to a severe knee injury, most of the talk was how the season was lost and the renewed talk of the "Chicken Curse." This is the second season in a row the Gamecocks have lost key defensive starters.

Last season defensive tackle Marque Hall was lost in the Georgia game. Carolina's top safety, Brandon Isaac was lost to a shoulder injury early in fall camp. Linebacker Dustin Lindsey was academically ineligible. This season, the Gamecocks lost starting defensive lineman Nathan Pepper, Isaac has re-injured his shoulder, Projected starting defensive end Jordin Lindsey was declared academically ineligible, and today the news came down on Brinkley, who is arguably the most valuable defensive player in the Southeastern Conference.

Brinkley's injury is significant. Carolina will not replace Jasper Brinkley from a talent or leadership perspective this season. Instead, defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix must pool the talent at his disposal and have some players step up at key positions. It will take a group effort to compensate for the loss of Brinkley.

Carolina's front four will have to be more productive. Melvin Ingram and Marvin Sapp will have to fill the void at the middle linebacker position. Sapp has more experience, but is undersized. Ingram has all the physical tools of Brinkley and has tremendous upside, but is extremely inexperienced. Safety Emanuel Cook will probably see the number of tackles he makes increase with Brinkley out.

Losing Brinkley now is much better than losing him later in the season for several reasons. Firstof all, it gives the Gamecock coaching staff the opportunity to tweak the defense and bring Ingram and Sapp along, while also adjusting what they do up front. The Gamecocks should still be favored in each of the next four games. If the Gamecocks play up to their capabilites, they should be able to defeat MSU, Kentucky, UNC, and Vanderbilt. That would put Carolina's record at 7-1.

Second, by the injury taking place when it did, Brinkley is eligible for a medical redshirt. That would mean that Brinkley could return for the 2008 season on what should be a loaded Gamecock defense. However, it does make the task of facing the powerful running games of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson more difficult.

Losing Brinkley may very well cost the Gamecocks a chance at the SEC Eastern Division title. However, don't sell short this coaching staff. Tyrone Nix and his defensive staff have gotten more out of less the past two seasons than anyone can imagine. The Gamecocks have more talent on defense than at any other time under Spurrier. The Gamecocks are playing a lot of young players, and as the season progresses that young talent will improve as each player gets more game experience. The next four games are critical for that development. How much can Melvin Ingram improve in four weeks remains to be seen, but clearly Ingram has all the tools to be a bigtime playmaker.

I am still not crazy about Casper Brinkley staying at defensive end. The Gamecocks need to beef up their linebacker corps. Carolina desparately needs Dustin Lindsey to make a healthy return, and the sooner the better. A linebacker corp of Casper Brinkley, Ingram and Lindsey would definitely hold up well against the strong ground atttacks of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson.

So, here's to wishing Jasper a full and speedy recovery. Jap, we will miss you this season, but look forward to having you back in the lineup in 2008.

The Return of The Cockfather

2007-09-24T07:59:00.000-04:00

I have been gone too long. Much like Michael Corleone's exile to Italia to escape recrimination from the authorities, The Cockfather has been away from the Gamecock nation for too long. However, after making some bold new moves over the past several months and cutting ties with another organization, The Cockfather is back to where he belongs....back with the Gamecock nation.

I have been asked by Keith Allsep and JC Shurburtt, the founders of the best and coolest Gamecock site on the web, TheBigSpur.com, to bring back Cockfather Illustrated. So, guess what...I'm back and badder than ever.

Feel free to post your comments on the blog. Remember, this is just an extenison of TheBigSpur.com, and my thoughts are not those of the ownership of TBS.

SO, here we go, my first blog in over a year.

Random Thoughts on LSU:

First of all, I don't think their quarterback play is good enough to win a National title. Defensively, while they have superior talent, I have never been a fan of Bo Pelini. I think he takes too many chances and leaves their defense vunerable to the big play. Pete Carroll and Southern Cal would pick them apart. LSU is good enough to win the SEC, but I don't think they woudl beat USC-W.

Carolina had their chances. Carlos failing to scoop up that ball and run it in for 6, E-Cook's drop of a pick-6, The fake FG, missing 2 critical 4th downs, and the dropped TD pass by Moe Brown.

I have actually come to expect Moe Brown to drop the football. When he did make a catch on Saturday, I was shocked. Anybody else shocked that he ACTAULLY caught a ball? Wow.

Now, on to more important things, Like Mississippi State.

The Gamecocks will be favored and should win this game. I like th move of going to Smelley. I honestly think he gives us the best chance to win. I think the entire offense responds better to him, probably because they have more respect for him due to the way he lives his life and the leadership skills he possesses. Let's face it, your qurterback ahs to be a leader, and Blake simply is NOT a leader. JC stated that he was itnerested to see what kind of quarterback Mitchell would be without Sidney Rice as his security blanket. Well, after three games, we know....not very effective.

I am not blaming it all on Blake, because let's face it, has there ever been worse receiver play on a Steve Spurrier coached team? I feel like we are back to 2005 with Chris Clark, and a bunch of true freshmen out there...which is basically what we have...minus The Great Sidney Rice. Had Sidney returned for his junior season as he should have, This Gamecocks team would be a legitimate BCS candidate.

The next four games are critical, must-win games. Carolina will be favored in each of these contests, and should face a ranked Kentucky program that is playing with great confidence. A win over another top 25 team will boost USCs ranking.

A 7-1 record heading into the Orange Crush portion of the schedule will give Carolina a chance at winning the SEC East. At Tennessee is always challenging, A road game at Arkansas is tough, but is looking better than it was a couple of weeks ago. Arkansas's defense is getting shredded like Swiss Cheese right now and they can't throw the football. The Gamecocks must correct their run defense to have a chance to beat the hogs.

Then it's down to the final two games of the season. Florida coudl potentially be ranked in the top 3 when they visit Williams-Brice Stadium on Nov. 10. Tim Teebow is a legitimate Heisman candidate right now and is puting up astounding numbers. The Florida defense is young and inexeperienced, but very, very talented. This will be a big-time battle.

Clemson...well, we all know what the Cockfather thinks about the tiggers, but let's face it, the A-she-she is the weakest conference in the nation this year. Clemson will have 9-10 wins when they arrive at Williams-Brice Stadium for the regualr season finale for both teams NOvember 24th.

It is the opinion of Cockfather Illustrated that in order for the Gamecocks to challenge for the SEC East down the stretch, Spurrier must play the freshmen receivers. Live and die with Culliver and the Barnes boys. Sprinkle in a little Dion Lecorn and use Jared Cook and Saunders together in there. Hell, split Cory Boyd out wide and throw the ball to him and play Boyd and Daivs in there together more often.

Carolina must also settle on an offensive line. The guard play has been shoddy up to this point. Those positions are like a revolving door. Does that sound familiar? It looks like it will again be the 6th or 7th game before Carolina settles on a consistent starting 5 up front.

Defensively, I don't like the move of Casper to DE. Carolina needs him at LB. Cody Wells cannot stand up in there to SEC ground attacks and Cliff Matthews is limited because of the club he wears on his hand. Put Jonathan Williams out there. He is a big guy and has played defensive end his enitre career. Kenrick Ellis played well enough in there to earn more time.

Travian Robertson has not been healthy, and needs to get back to 100 percent. He has been playing with a dinged up knee. The Gamecocks also need Dustin Lindsey to get back into the lineup. He re-injured the same ACL he had surgically repaired in the spring. Brandon Isaac is another key member of the defense that needs to be 0n the field. Isaac has NFL ability.

The Gamecock defense cannot be an upper echelon defense if Cody Wells, Joel Reaves, Ryan Brown, and Chris Hampton are all out there playing at the same time or seeing significant reps. Nothing against those young men, but honestly from an athletic standpoint, they could not play for very many of the teams on our schedule.

Well, there you have it, the first public thouhts from the Cockfather in over a year. I hope many will find this blog and post your thoughts as they pertain to Gamecock athletics.

Have a great day and stay tuned in to Cockfather Illustrated for my latest thoughts, and as always....To Hell With Clemson!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-24T07:48:00.000-04:00

One week from today. It's hard to beleive. 7 days until Steve Spurrier leads the Gamecocks into action against Mississippi State. I'll be there, will you?

Of course, at 3 pm today, Conway WR Junior Hemingway will make his college decision. Cockfather Illustrated believes the decision will come down to Michigan and USC.

Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take a look at the runningback position.

Post your commnets and questions in this thread.

To Hell With Clemson!

Mitchell much more confident in 2006

2006-08-23T20:25:00.000-04:00

In any offense, the quarterback position is arguably the most critical position on the field. The quarterback is the leader of the offense, the player that touches the ball on every play. But most importantly, the quarterback is the key decision maker for the offense, an extension of the play-caller. The quarterback must make the correct read at the line of scrimmage, make the correct read on the defenses coverage and deliver the ball to the open receiver or check into the correct play.

From 2002-2004 South Carolina was a team without a quarterback capable of doing those things. It cost the Gamecocks dearly, as they had the talent needed to win games and go to bowl games, but they were limited because the quarterback was either not allowed to do the things needed to win, or wasn't capable of doing the things needed to win. The lack of a competent quarterback would be a major part of the undoing of the Lou Holtz era.

With the arrival of Steve Spurrier, south Carolina fans rejoiced that the forward pass would finally replace the quarterback draw as a major part of the offense.

Seldom used red-shirt Sophomore Blake Mitchell, who had only attempted 22 career passes would be called on to lead Steve Spurrier's "Cock and Fire" offense. The 6'3 212 pound signal caller responded by completing 59 percent of his passes(186-315) for 2370 yards, 17 TD's and 12 interceptions. Half of Mitchell's interceptions came in USC's final two games versus Clemson and Missouri.

As the former Elite 11 QB enters the 2006 season, Mitchell appears much more comfortable with the offense, and his role as the trigger man in Steve Spurrier's offense. At times, the Lagrange, GA native was criticized for not audibling more at the line of scrimmage by the OBC. However, in the spring, Mitchell's comfort level allowed him to make more decisions at the line of scrimmage.

Cockfather Illustrated believes this is Blake Mitchell's football team. With more weapons in the arsenal, there is no reason why Mitchell could not throw for 3000 yards and 20+ touchdowns in 2006 provided he stays healthy, and the offensive line gives him time to deliver the ball to his targets.

If there has been one player that has caught the attention of the fans and the coaches in fall camp, it has been the play of Chris Smelley. The 6'3 206 pound true freshman from Tuscaloosa, AL. The rivals 4 star prospect has been spectacular in USC's three pre-season scrimmages completing a combined 34 of 53 passes for 509 yards, 6 TD's and no interceptions. The true freshman signal caller has out-shined incumbent Blake Mitchell to the point that many Gamecock fans are already wondering how long will it be before Smelley replaces Mitchell as the Gamecocks starting quarterback.

To that, I would borrow a phrase from ESPN's Lee Corso, "not so fast my friend." Sure Smelley has been impressive. He has a unique ability to see past the pass rush and focus on throwing the ball down field. He doesn't panic under pressure. He appears to have that 6th sense to be able to feel the rush coming and deliver the ball or move the pocket and make a play. However, the back-up quarterback is always the fan favorite.

It should really not come as a surprise that Smelley's numbers have been impressive when you consider what he did during his high school career. The Gatorade Circle of Champions Player of the Year in Alabama threw for a record 4120 yards and 59 touchdowns, with only 9 interceptions. For his career, the rivals.com 8th rated drop back passer shattered Brodie Croyle's record if 105 TD passes, with an astounding 134 TD passes.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Smelley has passed red-shirt freshman Cade Thompson as the second team quarterback, and should Mitchell struggle at times like he did last year, I don't think the OBC will hesitate to go with Smelley and give him an opportunity to lead the team.

Cade Thompson 6'2 183 Freshman(R) - Thompson was impressive in USC's spring game, completing 10-13 passes for 136 yards and 2 TD passes. Heading into the summer months, it appeared that the Maryville, TN native could provide stiff competition for Blake Mitchell heading into fall practice. That has not been the case, however, as Thompson has regressed in fall camp. In US's third and final pre-season scrimmage, Thompson completed only 4 of 15 passes. The only consistent thing he has done in those scrimmages is perform poorly and turn the ball over.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Thompson is at a cross roads in his career. If he gets a chance to perform this fall, he must shake off a sub-par fall camp and show the same promise he exhibited during a stellar high school career, when he won 35 straight games and posted an overall record of 43-1 at Maryville High School, leading his team to 2 State Championships.

The other player that figures into the quarterback mix at USC is multi-purpose athlete Syvelle Newton. The 6'0 210 pound senior is coming off a torn Achilles tendon injury, but has remarkably looked like the same spectacular play-maker he has always been. The former Marlboro County star has lined up at quarterback, runningback, and wide receiver over the course of his career. last season against Vanderbilt, Newton did all three, rushing for 80 yards on 15 carries, completed 3-4 passes for 46 yards and 2 TD's and caught 1 pass for 8 yards. for his accomplishments, Newton was named SEC player of the week. That would be the last time newton would play in 2005 as he suffered the Achilles injury on a touchdown run in the 4th quarter.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Newton will play a similar role as he did in the 2005 Vanderbilt
contest. Newton will primarily play WR this season, but will likely be inserted in the game as a shotgun quarterback, with a package designed to take advantage of his talents, and to give defensive coordinators more to prepare for each week.

Red-shirt freshman Tommy Beecher 6'1 212 pounds from Concord, NC and Senior Brett Nichols, a walk-on from Simpsonville who was recently rewarded with a scholarship, round out the quarterback prospects at USC. Both could see some action in mop up duty this season.

A couple of questions to consider

2006-08-23T08:57:00.000-04:00

As I walk out the door this morning, I have a couple of random thoughts...

First, where in the hell is Dakoda Walker? I'm sorry but the John Abraham/Kalimba Edwards comparisons need to stop. Walker was tied for the team lead in sacks as a true frehsman and now he's not even on the depth chart? What gives?

This guy has to be one of the most disappointing stories of the pre-season. I say red-shirt him and get him either big enough to play down or tough enough to play LB. Walker appears to be one of the most athletic players on the team, and has the ideal size and speed to be a playmaker...somewhere.

Second, the more I think about it, the more scared I get thinking about a defense full of first time players. Marvin Sapp beaten out by Rodney Paulk, Emmanuel Cook beats outs Walker and Wells. The Brinkleys, Nathan Pepper, Stoney Woodson, and Carlos Thomas will all be first time starters.

FS Brandon Isaac needs to get back after that 3 game suspension. Hopefully his hamstring and shoulder will have healed. USC need some more veteran players with experience on the field.

Wow...kinda scary if you ask me. One common denominator with all these newcomers is speed. All these players have excellent to superrior speed for their positions. Could we see the return of the Joe Lee Dunn defenses of the 80's? Will this defense be called "The Fire Ants" version 2.0?

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-23T07:27:00.000-04:00

*Eight days and counting until the Gamecocks open the college football season versus Mississippi State. Will the Gamecocks take care of business? One week from today, Cockfather Illustrated will give you the game forecast, and breakdown the match-up between the offenses and defenses, and a final score you will all be happy about.

*Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will begin the offensive positional breakdowns with an in-depth look at the Quarterback position.

*Last night was the 3rd and final scrimmage for Steve Spurrier's squad, and the defense just keeps getting younger and younger. It appears that USC will start at least four first year players on defense, and a linebacker corps that is completely new to division one football. The four newcomers are DE Capser Brinkley, MLB Jasper Brinkley, SLB Rodney Paulk, and WLB Emmanuel Cook.

The defensive depth chart is loaded with Freshmen and Sophomores. The only upper classmen on the defensive depth chart are DT Marque Hall, DE's Ryan Brown and Jordin Lindsey, MLB Curtis Rice, WLB Cody Wells, and SS Chris Hampton. Below is a look at USC's depth chart coming out of last night's scrimmage. Players in bold are newcomers.

DE-Ryan Brown/Joridn Lindsey
DT-Nathan Pepper/Joel Reaves or Stanley Doughty
DT-Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DE-Capser Brinkley/Eric Norwood
SLB-Rodney Paulk/Marvin Sapp
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells
CB-Fred Bennett/Captain Munnerlyn
FS-Stoney Woodson/Jeremy Ware
ROV-Chris Hampton/Darian Stewart
CB-Carlos Thomas/Captain Munnerlyn
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells

Post your comments and questions in this thread.

To Hell With Clemson!

Wildcard Emerges at Weakside Linebacker

2006-08-22T20:15:00.000-04:00

Perhaps the most intriguing position battle in USC's fall camp has been the weak-side or "Wolf" linebacker position coached by assistant coach Dave Wommack. The Wolf linebacker is responsible for covering the open side of the field, usually opposite the tight end, and must be able to place in space. This is primarily a speed position.

Today, Cockfather Illustrated takes an in-depth look at the players competing for the starting position, including a new "wild card" that has been thrown into the mix less that 10 days before the season opener versus Mississippi State. Each of the players battling for the starting position brings something different to the table, and are of all sizes and shapes.

Dakoda Walker 6'4 235 Sophomore - Walker played defensive end as a true freshman in 2005, and tied for the team lead in sacks with 3.5, despite missing USC's first three games with an injury. For the season, the former rivals 3 star prospect was credited with 13 tackles, and was involved in several key plays in USC's five game SEC win streak. Defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix made the decision to move Walker back to linebacker after spring practice, to take advantage of the Mays Landing, NJ native's speed, athleticism, and ability to play in space. Walker has alternated with the Cody Wells with the first team throughout most of fall camp, and the winner of this position battle may not be known until kick-off.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Walker will be a valuable player at weak-side linebacker. He should be a factor pressuring the passer coming off the edge in passing situations. If he becomes more physical, Walker should have a big season.

Cody Wells 5'11 212 Junior(R) - The red-shirt junior has been primarily a reserve and special teams performer during his career. That has changed the year as it appears the Bellview, FL native will log significant snaps from the "Wolf" linebacker spot. Wells made two starts in 2005 and logged 31 tackles with 3.5 tackles for loss and a pair of sacks for the season. He brings a toughness and true football mentality to the position. Wells is considered one of the hardest hitters on the team, and has a knack for being around the ball. As a converted safety, Wells also has experience playing in space.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Wells will begin the year as the starter, but be overtaken by Walker after he becomes more comfortable at WLB. Wells will also be involved when USC goes to their "Gator" package, which is similar to USC's old 3-3-5 defense.

Gerrod Sinclair 6'0 219 Freshman(R) - Sinclair was one of the top prospects signed in Steve Spurrier's first signing class. The Jacksonville, FL native gained almost 20 pounds during his red-shirt season and had an impressive spring. The Super Prep All-American came out of spring practice listed as the starting "Wolf" linebacker. Sinclair was named to the Jacksonville Times Union Super 11, and was a first team 6A all-state selection as a senior after making 107 tackles, 8 sacks and 7 interceptions.

An injury early in fall camp caused Sinclair to miss some valuable practice time, and may have taken him out of the race as a starter.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that once Sinclair's knee is 100percent, he will be tough to keep off the field. He is a converted safety with excellent speed and ball skills, who has a bright future ahead of him in a Gamecock uniform.

The "wild card" that has recently entered the mix is safety Emmanuel Cook. The 5'10 209 pound freshman has been working at both safety and weak-side linebacker this week. According to a source close to the program, Cook was working with the first team in yesterday's practice. This would be an intriguing move, and will be interesting to follow leading up to the Mississippi State game. Moving Cook to linebacker would upgrade the speed at that position, as the West Palm Beach native runs a sub 4.5 40 yard dash.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-22T00:54:00.000-04:00

Nine days and counting until the season opener versus Mississippi State. Steve Spurrier revealed last night that USC will "probably" wear black jerseys in the season opener, which will mark the first time USC has worn that color jersey since the Arkansas game in November of 2004.

Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take an in-depth look at the Gamecocks outside linebackers, coached by Dave Wommack.

Post your comments and questions in this thread.

To Hell With Clemson!

USC Will Debut Inexperienced But Talented Linebacker Corps in 2006

2006-08-21T14:45:00.000-04:00

The 2006 version of the Gamecock defense will feature a completely new linebacker corps, one short on SEC experience, but not talent and speed. USC defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix will oversee the inside linebackers this season after tutoring the defensive line is 2005. In his four seasons as defensive coordinator at Southern Miss, Nix not only built his reputation as one of the premiere defensive coordinators in the nation, but also as an outstanding developer of linebacker talent.

This season, USC's linebacker corps will be required to have a strong learning curve, as the the projected starters have one career start between them. Today, Cockfather Illustrated presents its in-depth preview of the inside linebacker position.

MLB- Jasper Brinkley 6'2 258 Junior - The Georgia Military College transfer immediately moved into the starting position during spring practice after arriving at USC in January of 2006. The Thomson, GA native has all the tools to excel in the SEC as a middle linebacker. Brinkley has excellent football instincts, is extremely physical, and has a nose for the football. Head Coach Steve Spurrier commented during spring practice that he had to "call Jasper off" so no one would be injured during the 7 on 7 inside drill. Selected as a second team JC All-American, Brinkley has been all coach Tyrone Nix expected and more, and will be counted on to be a play maker from his "mike" linebacker position this fall.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Brinkley will be the mainstay of the USC defense this fall. He is a definite upgrade to both Ricardo Hurley and Dustin Lindsey. If the season goes as planned, Brinkley will lead USC's defense in tackles.

MLB Curtis Rice 6'1 242 Junior(R) - Rice proved to be a valuable asset last season as a back-up and 3rd down situational player. The former Union High School product was considered a throw-in to get ALL-American OL Eric Young in 2003. However, Young had a last minute change of heart, and USC was left with the unheralded Rice. After spending his first two seasons on the scout squad, Rice was promoted mid-way through the 2005 season, and has responded nicely. He was in on several key plays in USC's upset wins over Tennessee and Florida, and overall saw action in 10 of USC's 12 games, with most of his action at linebacker coming in the second half of the 2005 season.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Rice will thrive as the back-up to Jasper Brinkley, and provide quality depth at MLB.

MLB Yvan Banag 5'9 215 Sophomore - Banag played mostly in USC's "Gator" package last season, which is similar to the old "Spur" position from the 3-3-5 defense used during the Outback Bowl seasons. The former Buford, GA star was also a stalwart on special teams, as head coach Steve Spurrier referred to Banag as "a kick covering son-of-a-gun". Banag spent spring practice at the "stinger" linebacker spot, but was moved shortly after fall camp began due to the emergence of true freshmen Rodney Paulk.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Banag will again be one of USC's top special team players, and could be featured in USC's "gator" package as a pass rusher coming off the edge. He could push Curtis Rice for playing time behind Jasper Brinkley.

SLB Rodney Paulk 6'0 212 Freshman - Paulk was USC's first commitment in the 2006 recruiting class, making his decision early last summer. Paulk then went out and led his Richland Northeast squad to the Class 4A division II state Championship game versus Byrnes High School. The Shrine Bowl selection and lead his team in tackles with an amazing 174 total tackles and 12 sacks and 22 tackles for loss. A finalist for the SC Mr. Football Award, Paulk chose USC over offers from Virginia Tech, and North Carolina.

As a player, the 9th rated prospect in South Carolina last season has impressed USC coaches with his speed and relentless nature in which he plays the game. In USC's first scrimmage, Paulk made perhaps the best defensive play of the day, as he blitzed in untouched, knocked the ball out of QB Cade Thompson's hand, scooped it up and raced 21 yards to the end zone for a touchdown. It has been plays like that and his consistent effort that have pushed him ahead of Sophomore Marvin Sapp in the race to become the starter at the "Stinger" linebacker position.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Paulk will be one of the surprises on this year's USC defense. While he may struggle initially in pass coverage, his speed, effort and desire to be a player will make him special for years to come.

Marivn Sapp 5'11 215 Sophomore - Sapp received the Joe Morrison award as the outstanding defensive player at the conclusion of spring practice, along with being named most outstanding linebacker. As a true freshman in 2005, Sapp took off his red-shirt in week four and made his only start of the season versus Troy. for the season, the former Sandalwood High School product was credited with 23 tackles, 8 coming against Auburn.

The former 3 star prospect and Jacksonville, FL Super 11 pick began fall camp as the starter at the "stinger" linebacker spot, but has been challenged by incoming freshman Rodney Paulk. The winner of this position battle may not be known until USC takes the field on August 31st against Mississippi State. Sapp is one of the strongest players on the team, and brings a physical presence with him to the field. The former Super Prep All-American is also well respected by both players and coaches for his outstanding character and work ethic.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Sapp will be a valuable member of USC's linebacker corps whether he is a starter or a reserve.

Vandaral Shackleford 6'1 222 Freshman - Shackleford was one of the steals of USC's 2006 recruiting class. He was named the Metro Atlanta Defensive Player of the Year, and 1st team 5A All-State as a senior, and led his Riverdale High School team to an 8-3 record by recording 120 tackles with 20 tackles for loss. Shackleford is an honor roll student who chose USC over Georgia, Duke, and Vanderbilt.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Shackleford will definitely red-shirt this fall. He has been injured some in fall camp, so a true evaluation will be made in the spring.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-21T11:29:00.000-04:00

The regular season is less than two weeks away, and later today Cockfather Illustrated will continue the postional breakdowns, with an in-depth look at the inside linebackers.

This week is also a potentially huge week for the Gamecocks in recruiting. Several players that have USC at or near the top of their list could be making announcements, including: WR Junior Hemingway, DT Cortez Myles, FS Arkee Smith, ,WR Dion Lecorn, and SS Antonio Allen.

Post your comments and questions in this thread.

To Hell with Clemson!

Sunday Night Recruiting Tidbits

2006-08-20T23:21:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated has learned that USC has jumped in the mix for Rivals 100 Defensive Lineman Cameron Heyward. The 6'5 265 pound two sport star at Peachtree Ridge High School in Suwanee, GA is the son of former Pitt and NLF star Craig "Ironhead" Heyward.

Heyward was very impressive at the Clemson Nike Combine this past May, and has the body of a college junior. The young Heyward will be heavily recruited, but that aspect of his life has been on hold for the most part, as he has been dealing with the tragic loss of his father earlier in the summer. He has, however, made an unoffical visit to USC's campus this summer.

Heyward is being recruited by USC assistant head coach Ron Cooper.

It appears that DE Cortez Myles 6'3 255 of Madison, MS will make a decison this coming Friday or Saturday between Auburn and South Carolina. Should the 4 star prospect follow through with his decision to commit next weekend, Cockfather Illustrated is prepared to forecast Myles will commit to the Gamecocks. USC assistant coaches Robert Gillespie and Brad Lawing have been recruiting the Rivals 250 selection, who is a top priority for the Gamecocks.

Myles projects as a defensive tackle on the collegiate level.

Youth Will Be Served at Safety

2006-08-20T08:07:00.000-04:00

In February, Steve Spurrier and staff signed a trio of young safety prospects in his second recruiting class. They were expected to compete for playing time behind senior Brandon Isaac and Junior Chris Hampton. One player, Emmanuel Cook was expected to make an impact after the early departure of Ko Simpson to the NFL. However, with the three game suspensions of Isaac and red-shirt junior Ty Erving, it appears a youth movement will, indeed be underway at safety for the Gamecocks in 2006.

Today in Cockfather Illustrated, we take an in-depth look at how the safety positions will stack up this season.

Chris Hampton 5'11 184 Junior - Hampton is the most experienced returning player in the secondary after Fred Bennett. The Memphis, TN native started five games in 2005 before being hampered by an ankle injury.Hampton will likely be the starter at free safety when the Gamecocks open the season at Mississippi state on August 31st. The Junior from Memphis, TN is an intelligent player that plays the run especially well, and is a big hitter from the safety position. Called "radio" by his teammates, the biggest challenge Hampton faces is playing center field in pass coverage. Last season Hampton had 19 solo and 28 total tackles. He was replaced in the starting lineup by Tremaine Tyler after suffering an ankle injury against Kentucky, which limited his playing time for the next several weeks. This season, Hampton will be charged with being the leader of the secondary. Leadership is something Hampton is familiar with, as he served as senior class president at Melrose High School.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Hampton is an intelligent player who will be solid, and provide good leadership from his safety position. He is a capable tackler and plays the run extremely well.

Emmanuel Cook 5'10 205 Freshman - Cook arrived this summer as one of the more highly touted players in Steve Spurrier's second recruiting class. The Palm Beach, FL product was Florida's 6A player of the year after leading his high school team to the state Championship. The Rivals three star prospect with 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash was a two-way standout at Palm Beach Gardens High School, as he rushed for over 2000 yards and 27 TD's as a senior, and started at linebacker. In the State Championship game, Cook rushed for 243 yards and 4 TD's. He doubled as a linebacker and was a stand-out on that side of the ball as well. Cook is known as a big hitter with great ball instincts. It appears he has taken over the starting position at ROV for the Gamecocks and will be the starter heading into the season opener versus Mississippi State.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Cook will literally have learn on the run this season. Cook is a hard hitter, who should be effective in run support. The question mark for him will be in pass coverage.

Darian Stewart 6'0 210 Freshman - Stewart was one of the steals of Steve Spurrier's second recruiting class. The Huntsville, AL native was considerd by many as one of the top prospects int he state of Alabama, but academic concerns caused many schools to take a wait and see approach with the all-state prospect. Stewart was recruited and personally evaluated by USC secondary coach Ron Cooper, who is one of the best in the business in evaluating secondary talent. With the suspension to Brandon Isaac, Stewart began fall practice as the starter at free safety. Currently, Chris Hampton has been moved from ROV to free safety and has supplanted Stewart in the starting role. The Lee High School product led his team to an 11-3 record by recording 54 tackles and four interceptions. as a receiver, Stewart had 25 receptions for 581 yards and 6 TD's. In basketball, he averaged 28 points per game as a senior.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Stewart has a bright future ahead of him, but because of the depth situation at safety, he will be pressed into duty immediately. Stewart is a physical prospect, with great quickness. He has been impressive in fall camp, and should be a big contributor this fall.

Brandon Isaac 6'2 195 Senior - Isaac was projected as the starter at free safety heading into fall camp. However, an academic issue that was overlooked last year when the Blackville, SC native transferred from Georgia Military Academy, caused the school and the NCAA to agree on a three game suspension to re-instate Isaac's eligibility. In 2005, Isaac made 34 tackles in two starts at free safety and reserve action at cornerback. Easily the most versatile prospect in USC's secondary, Isaac sat out spring practice after off-season shoulder surgery.

The GMC transfer with 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash was expected to fill in for Ko Simpson, but now with nagging injuries, may be headed for a red-shirt season.Isaac began fall camp with a hamstring injury, which has limited his practice time. Now, it appears Isaac is having problems with the same shoulder that was repaired in the off-season.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Isaac is a key to USC's secondary. If he is forced to red-shirt it will be a blow to both the depth and experience of the safety position. Hopefully Isaac will be able to shake off his injuries and come back after the three game suspension to provide solid depth, and possibly an experienced starter in the secondary. If Isaac is unable to play in 2006, look for Sophomore cornerback Carlos Thomas to slide over to free safety at times to help with depth and in obvious pass coverage situations.

Jerod June 5'11 205 Senior - June is a former walk-on who was rewarded with a scholarship prior to the 2005 season. He has action primarily on special teams last year, making 6 tackles. However, with USC's lack of experienced depth, the former Timberland High School standout could be pressed into action this fall. June moved over to ROV from linebacker during the spring.

Cockfather Illustrated believes June is a solid special teams contributor, but if he is pressed into extensive duty in the secondary, it will likely be due to injuries.

Nick Prochak 6'4 211 Freshman - The former Spartanburg High School Quarterback first played safety in the Shrine Bowl last December. Prochak is an excellent athlete with sub 4.6 speed in the 40-yard dash, and showed excellent potential for the secondary during the Shrine Bowl week. As a quarterback, Prochak completed 139-of-226 pass attempts for 1,791 yards and 17 touchdowns in addition to rushing the ball 133 times for 399 yards his senior year. The Spartanburg High stand-out earned the South Carolina Shrine Team Academic Award winner for having the highest GPA of any player on the South Carolina Shrine Bowl roster.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Prochak will likely red-shirt this fall. The way his body changes in the off-season will depend on his future position at USC, as he could grow into a LB or TE. If Prochak maintains his current size, he will stay at safety.

Ty Erving 5'10 190 Junior(R) - Erving will begin the season with a three game suspension for violation of team policy. Heading into fall camp, Erving was listed second team at free safety behind Brandon Isaac. The Batesburg-Leesville High School graduate was named most improved defensive back at the conclusion of spring practice, after playing in nine games in 2005 and being credited with eight tackles.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Eriving is at the end of his rope with head coach Steve Spurrier and this could be his last year in the program. However, with the uncertainty at safety and Brandon Isaac's injury situation, Erving may be needed to provide depth after he returns from suspension.

This Weekend Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-19T09:50:00.000-04:00

This weekend, Cockfather Illustrated updates the USC Football Depth Chart. Kick-off is less than two weeks away and several positions are still up for grabs, while several other positions are are being settled. Check out our latest depth chart projection, which is posted below.

Later this weekend, Cockfather Illustrated will continue the position breakdowns by taking an in-depth look at the safeties.

As always, post your comments and questions in this thread.

To Hell With Clemson!

Updated Depth Chart

2006-08-19T09:32:00.000-04:00

With the 2006 season less than two weeks away, here is the latest Cockfather Illustrated's projection for the USC Football depth chart.

Offense
TE-Jared Cook/Robert Pavlovic or David Laggis
LT-Gurminder Thind/Hutch Eckerson
LG-Thomas Coleman/Garrett Anderson
OC-Chris White/Web Brown
RG-James Thomspon/Kevin Young
RT-Jamon Meredith/Justin Sorensen
WR-Sidney Rice/OJ Murdock
WR-Kenny McKinley/Moe Brown
WR-Syvelle Newton/Mike West(injured)
QB-Blake Mitchell/Chris Smelley
FB-Lannard Stafford/Cody Lucas
RB-Mike Davis or Corey Boyd/Bobby Wallace

Defense
DE-Ryan Brown/Jordin Lindsey
DT-Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DT-Nathan Pepper/Joel Reaves
DE-Casper Brinkley or Eric Norwood
SLB-Rodney Paulk or Marvin Sapp
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice or Yvan Banag
WLB-Dakoda Walker or Cody Wells/Gerrod Sinclair
CB-Carlos Thomas or Captain Munnerlyn
FS-Chris Hampton/Darian Stewart or Carlos Thomas
ROV-Emmanuel Cook/Chris Hampton
CB-Fred Bennett/Stoney Woodson

Specialists
P-Ryan Succop or Spenser Lanning or Nate Spurrier
PK-Ryan Succop/Charlie Carpenter
DS(punts)-Ike Crofoot/Scott Morgan
DS(FG/PAT)-Scott Morgan/Nathan Pepper
PR-Cory Boyd/Kenny McKinley or Sidney Rice
KOR-Carlos Thomas/Bobby Wallace or Mike West(injured)
KOR-Moe Brown/Captain Munnerlyn

Secondary Breakdown: The Cornerbacks

2006-08-18T18:13:00.000-04:00

If Brad Lawing has his work cut out for him with USC's defensive line, it could be argued that secondary coach Ron Cooper faces an even greater challenge. With the early departures of Jonathon Joseph and Ko Simpson to the NFL, and the three game suspension faced by safety Brandon Isaac, the Gamecock secondary will be the most inexperienced unit within the defense.

Today Cockfather Illustrated takes an in-depth look at the players that will man the cornerback positions.

Fred Bennett 6'1 198 Senior - The good news for Gamecock fans is that senior Bennett returns to anchor one side of the field. The 6'1 198 pound senior has been rated as the top returning cover corner in the SEC by several media publications, and was named a pre-season All-American by The Sporting News. The Manning, SC native is a 3 year starter, and will need to play the best football of his career if the Gamecocks are to build upon last season's 7-5 record.

In pre-season camp, Bennett has been extremely impressive and has been mentioned by both defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix and head coach Steve Spurrier as the unquestioned leader of USC's defense, and one of the top leaders on the team. Last season Bennett had 3 interceptions, one coming in the first half of USC's 13-9 loss against Clemson. The rising senior also had 13 pass breakups and recorded 31 total tackles.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Bennett will have an excellent senior season and garner post-season SEC honors. He will lead a young but talented secondary that will be the surprise of the Gamecock defense.

Carlos Thomas 5'10 179 Sophomore - Thomas was one of the most highly decorated signees in Steve Spurrier's first recruiting class at USC. The 2005 Rivals 100 selection was recruited as a two-way player, and Steve Spurrier wasted no time inserting Thomas into the line-up in defense, as the College Park,GA Banneker High School star intercepted a DJ Shockley pass in the end zone at the conclusion of the first half in USC's 17-15 loss at Georgia. The former rivals.com 4 star rated prospect bounced back and forth between receiver and cornerback last season, in addition to handling USC's kick off return duties.

There is no denying Thomas natural talent, as even last year, USC's receivers hated going against Thomas in practice, as he possessed the best coverage skills on the team, including first round draft choice Jonathon Joseph. However, Thomas has not been known as a workout warrior, and his work ethic has not been the best. His tackling skills have also been called into question, or perhaps his desire to tackle. On the other hand, with the arrival of newcomer Captain Munnerlyn, and the emergence of red-shirt sophomore Stoney Woodson, Thomas has been forced to work extremely hard in practice to re-gain a starting position.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Thomas will have a solid, if not spectacular season. He is a special talent, and secondary Ron Cooper is the man to get that talent out of him.

Captain Munnerlyn 5'9 174 Freshman - Perhaps no freshman defensive player recruited in the Steve Spurrier era has raised as much attention as the diminutive Munnerlyn. From USC's first practice, the Mobile, AL native has shinned brighter than the braces he wears on his teeth. In one on one drills, Munnerlyn totally stuffed red-shirt freshman OJ Murdock, not even allowing the former Rivals 100 receievr to get off the line of scrimmage. While he still has a baby face, Munnerlyn plays like a man. The underrated cornerback is one of the fastest players on the team, having been timed as low as 10.29 in the 100m and 4.25 in the 40-yard dash.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Munnerlyn is the best thing to happen to Carlos Thomas, and will push him all year long. If Thomas's performance slips or he is needed at safety, Munnerlyn could emerge as a starter.

Stoney Woodson 5'11 190 Sophomore(R) - The Tampa, FL native played in all 12 contests last season, and made one start against Troy. Woodson saw extensive action in USC's 38-31 loss to Missouri in The Independence Bowl. The Middleton High School standout and former high school teammate of USC receiver OJ Murdock, actually began fall practice as the starter opposite Fred Bennett. However, after USC's first scrimmage, he was passed by Sophomore Carlos Thomas.

Woodson has excellent speed and possesses good coverage skills. He could be used at safety or in USC's nickle package.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Woodson will be an invaluable member of USC's secondary because of his experience and versatility.

A trio of walk-ons round out USC's cornerback unit. Seniors Ranzino Valentine, and Aubrey McKay, and red-shirt Sophomore Nitron Stork. The trio could see action on special teams and in mop-up duty.

Gamecocks Land Another Tarheel Defensive End

2006-08-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

The Gamecocks have picked up another commitment from the Tarheel state today, landing Laurinburg, NC Scotland County HS defensive end Byron McKnight. The 6'5 220 pound super sleeper jumbo-athlete has flown under the proverbial recruiting radar, but was personally evaluated by USC defensive coaches Brad Lawing and Tyrone Nix at USC's one day prospect camp in June.

According to Phil Kornblut of the South Carolina Network, McKnight said he contacted his recruiter Fred Chatham Thursday afternoon and made his pledge. "It feels great," he said. "I went to their scrimmage the other day and I talked to the defensive linemen and they made me feel part of the team. And knowing that Tra had already committed, I wanted to be with him."

McKnight, who has played only one year of football knows why he was a priority for the Gamecocks. "Rushing the passer," he said. "That's basically what they are looking for. They want me coming off the ball and getting to the quarterback."

Last season McKnight had 55 tackles and 4 sacks, even though he only played about half of the season on the defensive side of the ball, as he began the season at wide receiver and then tight end. McKight was moved over to defense after his teammate and fellow USC commitmnet Travian Robertson went down with a season ending knee injury.

Cockfather Illustrated has personally evaluated McKnight, and believe USC is getting a flat out steal. The 6'5 220 pounder has lived in the recruiting shadow of 4 star, and Rivals.com 100 defensive end prospect Travian Robertson. While Robertson is clearly the better prospect of the two right now, McKnight is taller, has a wider frame, and has a tremendous up-side. It is conceivable that McKnight will grow into a 6'5 285 pounder that will be capable of playing end or tackle.

As forecast earlier today on Cockfather Illustrated, McKnight's USC commitment further seals the deal on Travian Roebrtson's USC commitment over Clemson. That's right boys and girls, Robertson chose USC over Clemson.

Add McKnight as a yet another stellar evaluation by the USC coaching staff. Names like Moe Brown, Captain Munerlyn, Rodney Paulk, Eric Norwood, Terrance Campbell, Emmanuel Cook, and Darian Stewart come to mind from this past years class, along with guys like Lemuel Jeanpierre, and Jared Cook from coach Spurrier's first recruiting class.

USC's football recruiting momentum just keeps on rolling.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-18T09:04:00.000-04:00

Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take an in-depth look at the secondary, and break down the cornerback position.

Check out the USC Recruiting Notebook article posted below. Will it be a September to Remember for USC recruiting?

I would like to see more red-shirt predictions from the readers of Cockfather Illustrated.

As always, post your comments and questions in this thread.

USC Recruiting Notebook: A September to Remember?

2006-08-18T08:18:00.000-04:00

With the regualr season kick-off less than two weeks away, Recruiting News is still flowing, and USC is in great shape to have a "September to Remember".

It now appears that WR Jason Barnes will not announce next Thursday as was reported yesterday on another site, but instead wait and take game day visits to both USC and UNC before deciding with "Carolina" to choose. I think this bodes well for the Gamecocks. Barnes heart is leading him to Chapel Hill, as is his best friend and UNC signee Hakeem Nix. Barnes parents and everyone else close to him want him to attend USC.

September 9th is a weekend that USC fans should circle for a couple of reasons. First, it is the Georgia game. Steve Spurrier versus his longtime Nemesis. Spurrier probably dislikes no program as much as Georgia. At Florida, the Head Ball Coach was 11-1 versus the 'Dawgs. USC lost 17-15 in a hard fought game played in Athens last year. This year, Georgia comes to Columbia with a new quarterback, new offensive line, new receivers, a new defensive line an secondary. The game will be televised on ESPN @7:45 pm. Williams-Brice Stadium will be rocking!

The second reason to circle that weekend is that USC could land the proverbial "mother load" of Sunshine State prospects that weekend. Not only will USC land commitments from Ocala Trinity teammates WR Dion Lecorn, and FS Antonio Allen, but several Jacksonville, FL area players will also be there and could commit to the Gamecocks. First Coast High teammates FS Arkee Smith and CB Jamire Williams, and Andrew Jackson teammates RB Troy Pollard and Super DL D'Angelo McCray will also be on hand, and some, if not all, of those prospects could pull the trigger on a USC commitment.

An addition, Clemson commitment LB Scotty Cooper is also likely to be in attendance. USC has not given up on Cooper, and he is still in communication with USC assistant coach David Reaves.

Among many other top flight prospects expected to be in attendance will be Cheraw High School jumbo-athlete Cliff Matthews.

USC is still in strong position with Fort Dorchester jumbo athletes Carlos Dunlap 6'7 252, and rising junior Robert Quinn 6'4 255. Stay tuned to Cockfather Illustrated for the latest with these two stud prospects. Dunlap and Quinn form perhaps the top defenisve end tandem in all of high school football this season.

Not far behind that Dynamic Duo is another pair of defenisve ends that plan to play together at USC, in Laurinburg, NC Scotland County teammates Travian Robertson and Byron McKnight. Despite claims made by Clemson homer recruting analysts Cris Ard and Roy Philpot, the 6'4 237 pound Robertson is firmly committed to the Gamecocks, and is finished with the recruiting process. The 6'5 220 pound McKnight, who has the frame to grow into a 285 pound tackle, will most likely make his USC commitment official during the USC-Georiga weekend.

Lastly, in a recent update with Scout.com, Elite 11 QB Stephen Garcia stated in that interview that he could be ready to make an announcement "pretty soon". That would really make it a September to Remember for Gamecock Recruitniks!

Breaking Down The Defensive line: Part Two Defensive Tackle

2006-08-17T16:59:00.000-04:00

Today, Cockfather Illustrated completes an in-depth analysis of the defensive line by examining the defensive tackle position.

USC assistant coach Brad Lawing certainly has his work cut out for him this fall with the defensive front. Most players are either undersized or overweight. This is particularly true for the defensive tackles. In fact, three defensive tackles were delayed in beginning fall camp until they reached their summer weight loss goals. Stanley Doughty, Matt Raysor, and Kenrick Ellis spent two and one half hours each evening doing sprints and jogging around USC's practice fields, while the rest of the team began practice.

USC lost it's most consistent inside performer in Chris Tucker. The 6'2 303 pound senior played the best football of his career in 2005. The Atlanta, GA native made perhaps the play of the year in 2005 versus Florida, as he intercepted a tipped ball and rambled over 60 yards, all the way down to the Florida 5 yard line, setting up a Mike Davis touchdown run in USC's 30-22 victory.

Here are the players coach Lawing will be working with this year

Marque Hall 6'3 295 Junior - Hall arrived at USC with high expectations in the summer of 2004. The former 4 star prospect is still the most impressive player Cockfather Illustrated has personally scouted. Hall was productive as a freshman, even starting the final three games of the 2004 season. With the loss of Darrell Shropshire, Hall was expected to dominate in 2005. Instead, a virus caused the 290 pound tackle to lose down to 268 pounds, which was too light to go against 320 pound SEC offensive linemen. This off-season has been great for the former prep All-American, as he worked hard to re-gain his weight, as he is currently 295 pounds, and has a new coach, in Brad Lawing, that knows what kind of player he can be. Hall had a great spring, as he was named most outstanding defensive lineman at the conclusion of spring practice, and is poised for a break-out junior season.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that 2006 will be Marque Hall's year, and that the big junior could garner post-season all-SEC honors.

Nathan Pepper 6'1 285 Sophomore - "Pep" as he is called by his teammates, has fully supplanted returner Stanley Doughty as a starter. After a solid spring, the former Shrine Bowl performer had an excellent summer, and another solid fall camp. Pepper is one of the most dependable players on the defensive line, and has earned the trust of his position coach, Brad Lawing. The former Greenville High School star has also done an excellent job grasping the stunts and alignments that will be employed this fall. in Tyrone Nix's defensive scheme. "Pep" played in nine games last season, and also served as the reserve snapper, and made an appearance in that role during the Florida game.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Pepper will be a solid player this fall. He plays with great effort, and will always carry out his assignment.

Lemeuel Jeanpierre 6'4 278 Freshman(R) - Jeanpierre was moved inside after spending the spring at defensive end. He was also asked to gain 20 pounds and report at around 280. He did that with a great off-season, and has been extremely impressive in fall camp. The Orlando, FL native is a smart player, and has retained the same quickness he had at 260 pounds , which makes him very effective at defensive tackle. "Lem", as his teammates and position coach call him, has been very disruptive in pass rushing situations in both scrimmages and 11 on 11 drills.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Jeanpierre has the frame to add another 15-20 pounds in next off-season, and should be a solid contributor for years to come. He will be Marque Hall's back-up this season, and could be used along with Hall to get an extra push in the middle on obvious passing downs.

Joel Reaves 6'1 271 Junior(TR) - Reaves transferred to USC this past January from Georgia Military College, where he was a teammate of The Brinkley twins. The Marion High School product signed with the Gamecocks after making a a verbal commitment to Baylor University. After playing defensive end at GMC, Reaves was moved to the interior by assistant coach Brad Lawing in the spring. Reaves has worked hard over the summer to put himself in a position to play this fall. He is a classic"tweener", but with Stanley Doughty in Spurrier and Lawing's dog house, Reaves could emerge as Nathan Pepper's back up.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Reaves is under-sized and not ready for significant snaps, but could be forced into actions due to the staff's disappointment in Stanley Doughty and Matt Raysor.

Stanley Doughty 6'0 315 Junior(R) - Doughty is currently running with the third team, and is in danger of not making the travel squad for USC's season opener at Mississippi. Gamecock fans need to get past the thoughts of Doughty being an NFL player, and an All-SEC performer. The Greensburg, LA native has short arms, and poor leverage, which is not an ideal combination for an SEC defensive tackle. Doughty did not take the staff's threats seriously in the off-season to shed 30 pounds before reporting to fall camp. In the past, Doughty would be demoted, and then re-inserted in the starting line-up the week of the season opener. Not anymore. doughty must take practice seriously and get out of Brad Lawing's doghouse if he is to see significant snaps this season.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Doughty will be a reserve at NG behind Nathan Pepper this fall. just how much Doughty contributes depends entirely on him. If he works hard he could be promoted to second team and play in short yardage situations.

Matt Raysor 6'3 301 Sophomore(R) - Raysor is another player that will need to escape Brad Lawing's doghouse in order to see playing time in 2006. Currently running third team behind Marque Hall and Lemuel Jeanpierre, Raysor is another player that did not take the off-season seriously. He was called out at the annual Ladies Clinic by head coach Steve Spurrier, who said Raysor beat the heat by sleeping in this summer instead of making early morning runs with his teammates. The former Shrine Bowl performer does not have the quick-twitch mechanism necessary to be a factor in the SEC.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Raysor is at a crossroads with his career. He needs to either buy in to Steve Spurrier's philosophy and give maximum effort or move on. Raysor may be better suited for the offensive line.

Kenrick Ellis 6'5 330 Freshman - Ellis reported to USC this summer as one of the more highly touted signees in the freshman class. The 4 star recruit also reported at 349 pounds, and in terrible shape physically. A native of Jamaica, Ellis struggled to make the grade and stressed himself into gaining a "bad 20 pounds" before reporting in July. Kenrick has a great attitude and wants to be a player. He does have excellent potential, as he was rated one of the top defensive tackles in the country by Rivals.com coming out of John L. Leonard High School.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that Ellis will red-shirt this season, work on re-shaping his body, and losing the rest of the bad weight. Should the big defensive tackle do that, he will be a force to be reckoned with next spring. Ellis should have a stellar career if he stays in shape.

Red-shirt Predictions

2006-08-17T13:40:00.000-04:00

Okay, it is time for the readers of Cockfather Illustrated to chime in and make your own predictions. Which newcomers will play and which will put on the red-shirt? Let the discussion begin.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-17T07:32:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated will continue to positonal analysis by taking a look at the defensive tackles.

Please feel free to post you comments and quesitons here.

To Hell With Clemson!

Breaking Down The Defensive Line: Part One Defensive End

2006-08-16T16:38:00.000-04:00

There is no question that USC's defensive coaches have their work cut out for them this season. Today Cockfather Illustrated begins a positional breakdown for this year's defense with an in-depth analysis of the defensive line.

New defensive line coach Brad Lawing really has his work cut out for him this season. USC lost four defensive ends that logged significant snaps last fall in Charles Silas, DeAdrian Coley, Orus Lambert, Josh Johnson. To make matters worse, Sophomore Dakoda Walker was moved from defensive end to outside linebacker following spring practice, even further depleting the numbers at that position. This fall the Gamecocks will depend on a converted linebacker, a junior college transfer, a true freshman, and one returnee, who is in Head Ball Coach Steve Spurrier's doghouse, to provide solid defensive end play.

Ryan Brown 6' 260 Junior(R) - Brown emerged from spring practice as a starter at one of the defensive end positions. In 2005, Brown appeared in all 12 games, tallying 1.5 sacks and 3.5 TFL. The red-shirt junior from Berkeley High School has developed into a dependable and disciplined player that plays his assignments well. Brown had a great summer in the weight room, and is a player that assistant coach Brad Lawing has come to trust. Brown has been steady with his play thus fall, and will be one of the leaders on the defensive line this fall.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that Brown can perform as well as Orus Lambert did in 2005, if not better. Brown's biggest drawback is is lack of height, but his motor is always running, and he possesses excellent quickness.

Casper Brinkley 6'3 250 Junior(Tr.) - The twin brother of starting middle linebacker Jasper Brinkley, Casper arrived on campus this summer and has shown the same talent and physical ability to become a big-time SEC player. The Thomson, GA native adds a physical presence, and has the ideal size and speed to be a force coming off the edge in 2006. The Georgia Military JC transfer has quickly worked his way into a starting position on the depth chart, supplanting incumbent starter Jordin Lindsey. Brinkley had the "grill of the day" in USC opening scrimmage when he slid down the line of scrimmage and made a bone-jarring hit on core Boyd near the goal line.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that Brinkley will be an upgrade to the defensive end position from 2005, and that Brinkley will have a solid, if not excellent season.

Eric Norwood 6'2 256 Freshman - Norwood has been one of the surprises of fall camp, as he has impressed everyone with his initial first step and burst off the line. The Ackworth, GA native had 11 sacks and 50 tackles as a senior at North Cobb High School and was named the Cobb County defensive player of the week six times in 2005. A 3 star prospect by Rivals.com, Norwood was clearly under-rated and under-recruited. Norwood is currently the second team defensive end behind Ryan Brown, and will push Brown for snaps this fall. Norwood could also be used in passing situations, as he is one of the best pass rushers on the team.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that Norwood has a bright career ahead of him at South Carolina, and will be of great help this fall to the defensive front, providing quality depth at defensive end.

Jordin Lindsey 6'3 252 Junior - Lindsey is the lone returnee at defensive end from the 2005 season, yet he is currently running with the second team, behind Casper Brinkley. In 2005, The Mobile, AL native had 3 sacks and 5.5 TFL. Lindsey is an effort player who lacks the ideal athleticism and speed to be an SEC caliber defensive end. Still, Jordin gets the most out of his talent. However, Head Coach Steve Spurrier has been critical of both Lindsey's off-field behavior and work ethic. Jordin also has a twin brother, Dustin, who was a starter in 2005 at MLB, but was ruled academically ineligible for the 2006 season. Dustin Lindsey has re-enrolled at USC, and will red-shirt this year and practice with the team.

Cockfather Illustrated believes the added weight should help Lindsey be a more effective player in 2006, but he lacks the ideal speed and quickness to be a quality starter in the SEC.

Terrance Campbell 6'4 270 Freshman - Campbell is the 5th defensive end in the mix for playing time this fall. However, it is likely that the true freshman will red-shirt and make the move inside to defensive tackle next spring. A 3 star prospect by rivals.com, Campbell was probably under-recruited. He has been extremely impressive in fall camp. The South Cobb High School star was a high school teammate of current Gamecock wide receiver Kenny McKinley. As a senior, Campbell led his team to a 9-2 record and a regional title.

Cockfather Illustrated believes Campbell has the frame to play at 295 pounds, and should be a force to be reckoned with after a red-shirt season in 2007.

Defensive End Analysis- While USC's defensive end corps will be undersized, and still not up to what a quality SEC defensive end groups should look like, cockfather Illustrated projects this group to be more productive than in 2005.

Rising Star- Casper Brinkley
Most Dependable- Ryan Brown
Best Pass Rusher- Eric Norwood

General Discussion Thread for Aug. 16th

2006-08-16T10:08:00.000-04:00

I guess you know you have arrived when someone mentions your blog on a premium site and the post gets zapped. Hmmm....

Please feel free to post your comments and questions here on Cockfather Illustrated, the best Gamecock blog on the net.

To Hell With Clemson!

Projected Depth Chart

2006-08-16T00:24:00.000-04:00

Based upon the first scrimmage, here is Cockfather Illustrated's latest depth chart.

TE-Jared Cook/Robert Pavlovic/David Laggis
LT-Gurminder Thind/Hutch Eckerson
LG-Thomas Coleman/Garrett Anderson
OC-Chris White/Web Brown
RG-James Thompson/Kevin Young
RT-Jamon Meredith/Justin Sorensen
WR-Sidney Rice/OJ Murdock
WR-Syvelle Newton/Mike West
WR-Kenny McKinley/Moe Brown
QB-Blake Mitchell/Chris Smelley
FB-Lanard Stafford/Cody Lucas/Clark Gaston
TB-Cory Boyd or Mike Davis/Taylor Rank/Bobby Wallace

DE-Ryan Brown/Eric Norwood
DT-Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DT-Nathan Pepper/stanley Doughty or Joel Reaves
DE-Casper Brinkley/Jordin Lindsey
SLB-Marvin Sapp or rodney Paulk
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice/Yvan Banag
WLB-Dakoda Walker/Cody Wells/Gerrod Sinclair
CB-Fred Bennett/Stoeny Woodson
FS-Darian Stewart/Carlos Thomas
ROV-Chris Hampton/Emmanuel Cook
CB-Carlos Thomas/Captain Munnerlyn

P-Ryan Succop/Spenser Lanning
PK-Ryan Succop/Charlie Carpenter

PR-Kenny McKinley/Cory Boyd
KOR-Carlos Thomas and Mike West
Captain Munnerlyn and Cory Boyd

Projecting USC's Recruiting Class

2006-08-15T23:23:00.000-04:00

It's always fun to make a list of who you think will sign with USC and play with the numbers. So, here is Cockfather Illustrated's latest projection for USC's class. It is possible one or two signees won't qualify and will attend prep school.

Disclaimer: It is still August, and new names could surface during the season, so this is based on the players we know about now.

QB Stephen Garcia- possible 5 star-Rivals 100
RB Brian Maddox- 4 star- Rivals 250
RB Troy Pollard-3 star
WR Matt Clements-possible 4 star
WR Jason Barnes-probable 4 star
WR Dion Lecorn- 4 star
WR Michael Bowman-3 star
ATH Jeremy Davis-possible 5 star prep school
ATH Mark Barnes- 4 star- Rivals 100
OL Quintin Richardson- 4 star- Rivals
OL Maurice Holloway-3 star
OL Kyle Nunn-2 star
DE Travian Robertson-possible 5 star-Rivals 100
DE Byron McKnight- 2 star
DE Carlos Dunlap-4 star-possble Rivlas 100
DE Jabaal Sheard-possible 4 star
DE D'Angelo McCray-4 star-Rivals 100
LB Brian Rolle-3 star
CB Addison Williams-3 star
CB Gary Gray- 5 star-Rivals 100
CB Jamire Williams-3 star
FS Arkee Smith-2 star
SS Antonio Allen-3 star

How does Cliff Matthews decision bode for USC?

2006-08-15T20:40:00.001-04:00

Cliff Matthews decision to postpone his college decision caught many off guard late last night when GamecockCentral.com recruiting analyst Tony Morrell broke the story. Is Georgia still the team to beat? How does his decision bode for the in-state schools? Where will Matthews ultimately spend the next four years of college?

According to various sources, Cliff Matthews, the 6'5 225 pound defensive end was set to select the University of Georgia at a press conference scheduled for Thursday evening in Cheraw. The 4 star prospect according to Rivals.com will now wait until after his senior season and four scheduled official visits before making that decision. Matthews stated that he will make official visits to South Carolina, Clemson, Georgia, and North Carolina. The rivals top 100 selection, will also attend the South Carolina-Georgia game scheduled for a 7:45 pm kick off on September 9th. The game will be played in front of a sell-out crowd and a national television audience on ESPN. This will be the first game Matthews has seen at Williams-Brice Stadium, and only the second college football game he has attended.

Cockfather Illustrated believes that Georgia is still the team to beat, but that the Bulldogs will ultimately finish 3rd in the race for Matthews services. Instead, look for this to be a battle of the in-state programs, who were both the beneficiaries of Matthews decision to delay his decision. Clemson, who initially led for Matthews last year, after he attended the Clemson-Miami game, will jump back into the fray with all their might. The Tigers are coming up short on pass rushing defensive ends, and Clemson recruiter Dabo Sweeney covets Matthews signature on National Signing Day.

The South Carolina Gamecocks also have a need at defensive end, and would love to acquire the services of the Cheraw jumbo-athlete to go along with All American defensive end Travian Robertson, and quite possibly Fort Dorchester High Stud Carlos Dunlap, who currently measures in at 6'7 252 pounds.

USC defensive line coach Brad Lawing will play a key role in the recruitment of Matthews, along with his primary recruiter David Reaves. Lawing has established a good rapport with Matthews, and is a relentless recruiter. Reaves has also done an excellent job with Matthews, and when you factor in the "Circle of Friends" aspect, USC has a lot going in its favor.

There is still one major factor going against both in-state schools, especially USC. That is the Cheraw High School Head Basketball, Coach Tony Harrell. Harrell is a huge Georgia fan, and a hater of the Evil Genius, as are most all Georgia fans. Harrell will use what ever influence he can to convince Matthews not to attend USC, even if that means attending Clemson.

Harrell is a mentor to Matthews, and has built a great relationship with him over the past three years. No one at Cheraw High School is closer to Cliff Matthews than Tony Harrell. It will be imperative for USC to separate Matthews college decision from his relationship with Harrell.

So, Which college will Matthews ultimately decide to attend? It is still too early to tell, but I do think his decision to delay the decision bodes extremely well for the Gamecocks. Should USC defeat Georgia on September 9th, I think the Gamecocks will be in the drivers seat for Matthews signature.

Updated Red-shirt Projections

2006-08-14T11:52:00.000-04:00

Today Cockfather Illustrated updates the projected red-shirt list, and which newcomers will play this season.

QB-Chris Smelley- with a strong showing in the first scrimmage, Smelley is poised to pass Cade Thompson as the primary back-up to Blake Mitchell. Head Ball Coach Steve Spurrier described his newest pupil as "special" after Saturday's scrimmage. The 6'3 210 pound Tuscaloosa native throws a beautiful ball and appears ready to play right now. Perhaps a more appropriate question is, how long can Blake Mitchell hold Smelley off?

FB Clark Gaston - at one point it appeared the mid-year enrollee would be a starter at FB, but incumbant Lanard Stafford was held him off. SC State transfer Cody Lucas has also been impressive and is running ahead of gasotn. at this point, it appears he will be red-shirted.

WR-Moe Brown- perhaps the biggest surprise on the offensive side of the ball thus far in fall camp, The Westside High School product will see significant playing time barring injury, and is in the mix to be a punt returner.

WR Chris Hail- a great looking athlete that could play on either side of the football, Hail is headed for a red-shirt season.

OT Hutch Eckerson- early returns on Eckerson's performance have been excellent. A source close to the program told Cockfather Illustrated that he is the best of the freshman class, and displays a nasty attitude. The 6'6 290 Lumberton, NC native will likely back-up at both tackle positions.

OG Kevin Young- perhaps the most physically ready to play of the freshman class, Young could take over the starting right guard spot from James Thompson. The biggest drawback with Young, as is the case with most freshmen, is that he is struggling mentally to pick-up the system. If Young catches on, as we expect him to, he will play significant snaps this fall.

OG Garrett Anderson- another good looking prospect that could play guard or tackle. USC would like to red-shirt the Shrine Bowl performer, but with USC's depth as thin as it is, it is doubtful Anderson will red-shirt.

OT Heath Batchelor- perhaps the most physically impressive of the freshmen linemen, Batchelor showed up measuring 6'7 311 pounds, and a very athletic build. The Haleyville, AL native is battling some knee problems and appears headed for a red-shirt season.

OG-Seaver Brown - The 6'6 310 pound Brown was USC's first OL commitment last fall. The Clearwater, FL native will be red-shirted this fall and appears to have a bright future ahead of him at USC.

OC Pierre Andrews- The 6'3 285 pound Independence High School star will be red-shirted while he adjust to playing the center position. Andrews played primarily guard and tackle during his high school career.

DE Eric Norwood - the 6'2 260 pound pass rusher has been very impressive in fall camp. Norwood displays an unbelievably quick first step off the edge and is on schedule to see significant snaps this fall. One source told Cockfather Illustrated on Saturday that Norwood would be a star at USC. He wants to be a great player. He stays after practice to work on his techniques and assignments.

DE Terrance Campbell- The 6'3 268 pound South Cobb HS star certainly passes the eye ball test. with his frame, Campbell is destined to grow into a defensive tackle. He could carry 290 pounds with no problem. Look for him to red-shirt this fall and move inside during spring practice.

DT Kenrick Ellis - The Jamaican native may be the biggest freshman I have ever seen at USC. weighing in a 349 pounds when he reported, Ellis has now "trimmed down" to 330 pounds. He appears destined for a red-shirt year while he continues to re-shape his body. Ellis still has a great future ahead of him if he continues lose weight and maintain his positive attitude.

DT Joel Reaves- although undersized at DT, Reaves is currently running ahead of Stanley Doughty at the back-up NG position behind sophomore Nathan Pepper. It is doubtful Reaves will red-shirt.

DE Casper Brinkley- the junior college transfer has been more than impressive thus far in fall camp, and is a likely starter at one of the defensive end positions. The 6'3 250 pound Thomson, GA native has excellent speed and shows a knack for being around the ball.

LB Jasper Brinkley - will anchor the Gamecock defense from his MLB position. The twin brother of Casper Brinkley, Jasper arrived at USC in January, and was impressive in winter workouts and caught the eye of USC's defensive coaches early in spring practice.

LB Rodney Paulk - was extremely impressive in USC's opening scrimmage this past Saturday. Paulk has exceptional quickness and has worked hard over the summer to push his weight to around 210 pounds. He is the likely back-up to Marvin Sapp at the Stinger LB position and could also play in USC's nickel package.

LB Vandaral Shackleford- has battled some minor injuries and appears headed for a red-shirt season.

CB Captain Munnerlyn - perhaps the biggest surprise of fall camp, the Mobile, AL native has shown excellent speed, and coverage skills. Munnerlyn has also shown a physical nature in press coverage. Munnerlyn will avoid a red-shirt and should see significant playing tome both on defense and special teams.

FS Darian Stewart- with Brandon Isaac's uncertain availability for the upcoming season, Stewart is the likely starter at free safety. The Huntsville, AL newcomer has been impressive, and is physically ready to play.

FS Nick Prochak - the former Spartanburg High School quarterback is one of the most impressive athletes in the freshman class. How fast he progresses in fall camp will determine if he red-shirts or not. Currently, he is the back-up to Darian Stewart at FS.

ROV Emmanuel Cook- a likely contributor on special teams, Cook is also the current back-up to Chris Hampton, and should see action on defense as well. The former 6A Mr. Football has outstanding speed, and is physical at the point of attack.

Stock Report: WR Matt Clements

2006-08-14T00:25:00.000-04:00

With the news of Matt Clements impending commitment(Sept. 16th), I thought I would re-publish this article from June 27th, which was the week I launched Cockfather Illustrated. I hope you enjoy.

This is the first in series of weekly reports in which we will report on one prospect who's stock is on the rise. It is fitting that the first such Stock Report is on Baron Collier High School WR Matt Clements. Perhaps no single prospect is becoming more talked about in Gamecock recruiting circles more than the Naples, FL wide receiver prospect. Rated a 4 star prospect by scout.com, and the no. 3 WR prospect in the state of Florida by Bill Buchalter of The Orlando Sentinel, Clements currently holds offers from Auburn, Clemson, Ohio State, South Carolina, West Virginia, Indiana, and Iowa State. As the season approaches Clements should see his offer sheet grow during his senior season.

The 6'1 185 pound speedster has that rare comination of size, speed and hands that make him an elite prospect. Clements has been clocked at 4.34 seconds in the 40-yard dash, and set school records this past spring in both the 400 m(49.0 sec.) and the high jump(6'4). These skills have made Clements a top priority for Steve Spurrier Jr. and the South Carolina Gamecocks. In fact, USC currently holds the edge for Clements signature, and he could issue a verbal commitment before the end of summer to South Carolina.

In a recent story published on GamecockCentreal.com, Clements told rivals recruiting analyst Tony Morrell that USC is the team to beat. "South Carolina is my No. 1 school now," the 6-foot-1, 180-pound Clements said. "They have just done the best job of showing me how much they want me to be a part of their program. They run a big-time offense, and it seems like I could really make an impact there if I went there." USC has done an excellent job recruiting Clements as both RB Coach Robert Gillespie and Steve Spurrier Jr. Have been working overtime to land Clements commitment. It appears their efforts could be rewarded.

Matt Clements stock is definitely on the rise. Will he be a Gamecock? Stay tuned!
posted by cockfather @ 11:52 AM 1 comments

Gamecocks Expected To Land Saluda Shooting Guard

2006-08-13T17:30:00.000-04:00

Dave Odom and the mens basketball program is expected to receive a verbal commitment from 6'4 2G Trevor DeLoach in the coming days. The Saluda High School product has been impressive on the summer AAU circuit, and has picked up offers from Wake Forest and FSU, and is being looked at by several other SEC and ACC programs.

DeLoach would join a 2007 USC recruiting class that includes 6'8 WF Aaron Ellis, 6'7 PF Mike Holmes, and 6'10 PF/C Sam Muldrow. USC is also expected to re-sign Augusta, GA native 6'8 F Austin Steed, who will be attending prep school this fall after failing to meet freshman eligibility requirements.

Six Position Battles: Post Scrimmage Answers

2006-08-13T08:32:00.000-04:00

On Saturday morning, Cockfather Illustrated listed six key positions to watch for the first scrimmage. Today we will give our impressions of those position battles and project who will fill those positions when the season begins.

1)Right Guard - Currently there is a 3-way battle going on for that position with junior James Thompson, and true freshmen Kevin Young, and Garrett Anderson. Right now, it appears that Thompson will emerge from this battle as the starter. Thompson is farther along mentally, as far as understanding the protections, and assignments. Kevin Young has all the physical attributes needed to be a starter, but naturally , he hasn't had the time to master the offensive system. The same can be said of Garrett Anderson. The Dutch Fork High School product is also only 17 years old, and should be entering his senior year in high school.

Cockfather Illustrated projected starter: James Thompson will be the starter to begin the season, but Young could overtake him by mid-season if Thompson does not become more consistent.

2)Cornerback - Stoney Woodson worked most of the day with the first team defense, and Carlos Thomas worked with the second defense. Thomas was excellent in coverage most of the day, blanketing the outside receiver on his side. Woodson was solid on the day as well. True freshman Captain Munnerlyn was tested several times on the day and had his moments as well. The Mobile, AL native was beaten by All-American Sidney Rice for a 25 yard touchdown, then came back to make a circus grab for an interception, as he battled freshman walk-on Marquise Brown for the football along the west sideline.

Cockfather Illustrated projected starter: Carlos Thomas

3)Wolf Linebacker - This is a two -way battle right now between red-shirt junior Cody Wells and sophomore Dakoda Walker. Wells is more experienced, while Walker is more athletic and physically imposing. Both should see significant snaps this fall. Wells plays the run extremely well, but is still undersized and gets overwhelmed taking on blockers. Walker plays well in space and can drop well in coverage. As we also know, Walker can come off the edge with the pass rush. The sophomore frm Mays Landing, NJ displayed those abilites yesterday as he dropped into coverage, and picked off a tipped Blake Mitchell pass for an interception.

The third player in the race for the Wolf position is red-shirt freshman Gerrod Sinclair, who is out with a sprained knee. Depending on how much longer Sinclair is out with the injury, he could be on the outside looking in and be relegated to spot duty and special teams.

Cockfather Illustrated projected starter: Too close to call.

4)Back-up Quarterback- going into yesterday's scrimmage, red-shirt freshman Cade Thompson was working with the second offense, and true freshman Chris Smelley was working with the 3rd team. If you have ever heard the expression "the cream rises to the top" yesterday was a perfect example. Smelley was sensational, going 10-17 with 3TD's and no interceptions. Smelley seemed to have complete command of the offense and stood in the pocket and delivered strike after strike. When flushed out of the pocket, Smelley was still at his best, finding Taylor Rank in the flat for a short gain that rank turned into a 46 yard touchdown.

Cade Thompson, who was expected by some to challenge Blake Mitchell after an outstanding spring game, had a disappointing scrimmage. The former Tennessee Mr Football was 6 for 15 for 55 yards with no touchdowns and 1 INT. His struggles have been consistent through out fall camp.

Cockfather Illustrated projection: Chris Smelley

5)Back-up Offensive Tackle - There are three players competing for the second team positions. Red-shirt sophomore Justin Sorensen, and true freshmen Hutch Eckerson and Heath Batchelor.
Sorensen just simply does not have the footwork needed to play offensive tackle in the SEC, and Eckerson and Batchelor have only one week of practice under their belt. Both have much more upside and ability than does Sorensen.

Hutch Eckerson 6'6 290, who was very impressive in last year's North Carolina-South Carolina Shrine Bowl at left tackle is considered the best of the freshmen offensive linemen. Heath Batchelor has been the surprise of the OL class, as he reported at 6'7 311 pounds, with an very athletic build. Batchelor is also the strongest of the freshmen line class, with a bench press of over 400 pounds. The Haleyville, AL product is battling a stiff right knee, but if his knee holds up, could play this fall.

Cockfather Illustrated projection: Eckerson at LT and Batchelor at RT.

6) Kicker/Punter - heading into the scrimmage, sophomore Ryan Succop was the odds on favorite to handle all of the kicking duties this fall. While this still may still happen, there were some encouraging signs that relief could be on the way. Freshman punter Spencer Lanning, who kicked in the Shrine Bowl last December was very impressive, while Succop did not hit the ball well.

Succop connected on two of three field goal attempts, hitting from 50 and 37 yards out, and missing from 46 yards. Senior Charlie Carpenter appears to be the competition at field goal kicker, and he connected from 47 yards out.

Cockfather Illustrated projection: There is no doubt that Succop will handle kick-offs, and is still the favorite to handle both punts and field goals. Lanning and Carpenter will have to continue to show great consistency to overtake Succop.

Top Prospects Attend USC Scrimmage

2006-08-12T23:51:00.000-04:00

There were five key prospects on hand at today's scrimmage, including USC commitment Travian Robertson. The 4 star defensive end is reportedly up to 237 pounds, and looks great physically. USC fans need not worry about Robertson. He is 100 percent committed to Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks. He was wearing a USC Nike white Tee-shirt with garnet sleeves. Robertson's father, Tony, was also in attendance today.

Robertson's Scotland County High School teammate, 6'5 220 pound DE Byron McKnight also made an unofficial visit for the scrimmage. McKnight appears to have grown since Junes prospect camp, and has the frame to grow into a 285 pound defensive tackle. Expect a mid-September commitment for McKnight.

Sumter high School Offensive Lineman Kyle Nunn was also on hand and was officially offered a scholarship by offensive line coach John Hunt. I fully expect the 6'5 285 Nunn to de-commit from Virginia Tech and choose to attend South Carolina.

WR Mark Barnes and junior LB Chaz Washington, both of Richland Northeast High School, were also in attendance.

One thing that stood out to me was the attention paid to each prospect by every member of the coaching staff, including head coach Steve Spurrier.

Make no mistake about it, Steve Spurrier is going to bring in top flight talent, and USC's program will reach new heights under the New Ball Coach.

Scrimmage Impressions

2006-08-12T22:29:00.000-04:00

Just back in from the first fall scrimmage and the annual Letterman's Association dinner. It was a great day to be a Gamecock. The scrimmage was excellent, and mother nature pitched in by keeping the rain away from Williams-Brice stadium.

I think this may have been the best first scrimmage I have ever seen at USC. Both offense and defense had their shining moments. I am really impressed with the speed that has been added to the defense since the spring. Casper Brinkley, Eric Norwood, Captain Munnerlyn, and Darian Stewart will all play major roles on defense.

Offensively Chris Smelley stole the show today. The true freshman from Tuscaloosa, AL was 10-17 for 173 yards and 3 TD's. The rivlas.com 4 star prospect showed great command of the offense, and stays cool under pressure in the pocket. Smelley is unfazed by the pass rush and concentrates on his target. Cockfather Illustrated projects Smelley to play this fall, and will be no worse than the second team quarterback this season.

It is amazing to think that Syvelle Newton could recover from an achilles tendon injury to be able to go out and make the type of run that he made tonight from the quarterback position. Newton looked like he had never been injured, as he was able to make several quick change of direction moves and show the same burst of speed that Gamecock fans have seen thoughout his career. I have a feeling that Newton is going to do some special things this season.

OJ Murdock also had an excellent day, and is emerging as one of Smelley's favorite targets. For the day, the red-shirt freshman from Tampa, FL had 3 receptions for 69 yards and 1 TD.

All-American WR Sidney Rice was also impressive, with 2 receptions for 27 yards and one touchdown, in a limited role.

While Cory Boyd's stas aren't eye-popping, the red-shirt junior was showed big play ability, with 3 catches for 35 yards. Boyd will benefit greatly from USC's passing game, which will set up the draw play. Boyd appears to be in the best shape of his career, and has shown break away speed throughout fall camp.

RB Taylor Rank displayed surprising speed on his 46 yard TD reception, as he caught a short pass and ran away from LB Dakoda Walker in route to the endzone.

Bobby Wallace continues to show the elusiveness and burst he displayed in last season's regular season finale against Clemson. The Conway sophomore will be a good change of pace and situational back this year.

Jared Cook, Mike West, and Moe Brown each had nice grabs on the day, and are more weapons that USC did not have available last year.

It appears that James Thompson is beginning to step up and take control of the right guard position. Kevin Young has all the physical attributes, but is still a little bit behind mentally.

I have never seen a better looking freshman offensive lineman than OT Heath Batchelor. The 6'7 311 pound Haleyville, AL product looks like a college junior. The 3 star prospect has very little body fat, and is strong as an ox.

One aspect of the game that was especially encouraging was the field goal kickers. Ryan Succop was 2 for 3, including a 50 yarder, and also connecting from 37 yards out. Charlie Carpenter also hit a 47 yarder.

Defensively, several players showed up big today. Where would USC be without the addition of Jasper and Casper Brinkley. Jasper made several bigtime plays today plugging up the running lanes. Casper also showed up big at defensive end, and made, perhaps, the biggest hit of the day when he slanted down the line and crushed Cory Boyd at the line of scrimmage.

USC's linebacker corps continues to impress. In addition to Jasper Brinkley, Marvin Sapp, Rodney Paulk, and Dakoda Walker all made plays, and showed the athleticism needed to play in the SEC. I also thought that Curtis Rice was solid as the reserve MLB.

Rodney Paulk in particular, is a pleasant surprise because he is only 17 years old, and it was expected that he would red-shirt. As it stands now, Paulk is the second team Stinger behind Marvin Sapp, and is also being used when USC goes to it's nickle package. Paulk made the play of the defensive play of the scrimmage as he blitzed through the left side and knocked the ball out of Cade Thompson's hand, scooped it up and raced 21 yards into the endzone for a touchdown.

While there were 5 touchdown passes on the day, I am still impressed with USC's secondary, especially when you consider the fact that 3 of the 4 safeties are true freshmen, and 3 of the 4 corners have very little to no playing experience. Darian Stewart, Emmanuel Cook, and Nick Prochak have all shown good ability and excellent potential.

The best thing to happen to Carlos Thomas this fall has been Captain Munnerlyn. Munnerlyn has forced Thomas to compete and give 100 percent effort. Both players have outstanding ability. With Stoney Woodson and All-American candidate Fred Bennett, USC has 4 legitimate corners that can play significant snaps this fall.

DE Eric Norwood continues to impress. The 6'2 260 pound freshman has a quick first step and is becoming USC's best pass rusher. Norwood is also a very personable young man, and from all reports wants to be a great player, as he puts in extra time after practice to work on his techniques.

DE Terrance Campbell is also an impressive looking 6'4 268 pounds. The South Cobb High School product will probably red-shirt and grow into a defensive tackle by next season. He is also one of the nicest young men you will ever meet.

Look for DT Kenrick Ellis to red-shirt this season. Ellis is simply too heavy right now, but has an excellent attitude and will do what is necessary to re-shape his body.

Overall, there are a lot of positives to take away from todays scrimmage. Most encouraging to me is the speed and play-making ability USC has on defense. This defense will be better coached, more fundamentally sound both from a scheme standpoint, and the way they approach the game.

Coach Spurrier was overheard telling a few people at the Letterman's dinner that he was very encouraged by the performance of his football team, and that from today's scrimmage, He believes this football team will be much better than he had originally thought. He also made the comment that Chris Smelley was going to be "special."

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-12T09:29:00.000-04:00

Today we take an inside look at key position battles to watch in today's first fall scrimmage. Cockfather Illustrated will be on-hand for the scrimmage, and there will be a full report posted tonight.

Feel free to post your scrimmage and recruiting questions in this thread.

1st Scrimmage To Test Young Players

2006-08-12T09:04:00.000-04:00

The 2006 Gamecocks will go completely live for the first time today, as the team will hold it's first fall scrimmage in the friendly confines of Williams-Brice Stadium at 4:15 p.m.

The purpose of this scrimmage will be to look at those players that will be needed to fill in some starting positions, and provide depth at others. Position battles to pay close attention to on Saturday include:

Right Guard- incumbent James Thompson has been less than impressive thus far in fall camp. Newcomers Kevin Young and Garrett Anderson will be on audition today.

Cornerback - With Fred Bennett entrenched as the starter at one corner, a three-way battle is shaping up at the other spot between Stoney Woodson, Carlos Thomas, and Captain Munnerlyn. Thomas may have the most natural talent, Woodson has been the most steady, and Munnerlyn has been the surprise of fall camp. The competition here will do nothing but make all three players better.

Wolf Linebacker - Cody Wells has been running with the first team for most of the week, but it is obvious that Dakoda Walker has the natural talent and ability to be a force at this position. Gerrod Sinclair is also in the mix, but is currently battling a knee injury.

Back-up Quarterback- Returning starter Blake Mitchell appears to be in complete control of Steve Spurrier's offense this fall. He is releasing the ball sooner, reading the defense, and not putting the ball in jeopardy. So, today's scrimmage will be an opportunity for Cade Thompson and Chris Smelley to show the New Ball Coach what they can do in a live situation. Thompson has struggled at times this fall, and Smelley is becoming more and more comfortable in coach Spurrier's offense. Today's scrimmage could go a long way in determining who will emerge as Mitchell's back-up.

Back-up offensive tackles - No team can get through an SEC schedule with only two offensive tackles. At this point the only question appears to be how many true freshmen will play at this position. Hutch Eckerson and Heath Batchelor both appear more athletic and talented than Canadian Justin Sorensen. Will USC play both of these newcomers and play 4 tackles? Or will Batchelor or Eckerson be the third tackle and rotate with both Meredith and Thind. This would allow USC to red-shirt one of these talented freshmen.

Kicking Duties - Can anyone help Ryan Succop here? As of today, Succop is the odds on favorite to handle all of USC's kicking duties. Punters and field goal kickers will be on audition today.

USC Football Notebook August 10, 2006 - Part 2

2006-08-10T17:01:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated spoke with a source today that has been extremely close to the USC football program for the past 5 years, and our source said today that this is the best freshman class to arrive in Columbia during that five year time span.

All of the offensive linemen are SEC caliber, and only one of those prospects is a developmental prospect. My source feels that they will all be capable of playing by next season.

Freshmen mentioned specifically were:

Each member of "The Alabama Gang" was mentioned specifically.

QB Chris Smelley - Has the strongest arm on the team.

CB Captain Munnerlyn - none of the WR's want to go against him in 1-on-1 drills.

FS Darian Stewart - reminds him of Ko Simpson

OT Heath Batchelor - amazed everyone in the Oklahoma drill.

DE Eric Norwood - "Special" was the one word used to describe the Georgia freshman.

DL Terrance Campbell - will be huge. Definitely a defensive tackle down the road.

LB Rodney Paulk- Doesn't talk much, just goes out and play. Is one of the hardest workers on the team.

OG Kevin Young - The most ready to play of the freshmen OL's

OG Garrett Anderson - is right behind Young.

OT Hutch Eckerson - Will be USC's 3rd tackle, and has the potential to be "big-time"

WR Chris Hail- Was unbelievable this summer as a CB

WR Moe Brown- Will surprise everyone this fall. He is a special talent. Cannot belive how fast he is.

USC Football Notebook August 10, 2006 - Part 1

2006-08-10T16:43:00.000-04:00

In this USC Football Notebook, Cockfather Illustrated will present the very latest news on the Brent Davis situation, and provide insight on this year's freshman class from the perspective of someone that has been extremely close to the USC football program for the past five years.

Okay, let's cut to the chase. Here is the absolute latest on Brent Davis. As we speak, Brent's parents are on their way to Columbia. Thye are hoping that Brent will be given the opportunity to resume his career at USC. The $64,000.00 question is, does Brent want to re-join his teammates.

By now, we all know that Brent Davis, the 6'1 205 red-shirt freshman LB from Daytona Beach, FL decided to leave the football program. We also know that Brent showed up at last night's practice. We also know that as practice was concluding, Davis's intention was to meet with head coach Steve Spurrier and personally inform him of his intentions to permanently leave the program. However, Phil Kornblut of the South Carolina Network reported late last night that Davis met with defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix and expressed his desire to return to the program.

What caused Davis to have an apparent change of heart is unclear. We do know that as practice ended, Davis was greeted by a host of his former teammates and all of them expressed their desire for him to re-join the program. Did this cause the change of heart? Does Davis want to return to the football program?

These are questions that are still unanswered. Stay tuned to Cockfather Illustrated for the latest breaking news on this situation.

Cockfather Illustrated Exclusive: Andy Boyd granted 6th year by NCAA

2006-08-10T13:40:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated has just confirmed that tight end Andy Boyd has been granted a 6th year of eligibilty by the NCAA. The 6'4 265 senior from Concord, NC had missed two full seasons due to knee injuries. Boyd will be a 5th year player this fall, but with the NCAA granting him a 6th year, he can now be re-classified as a junior.

Cockfather Illustrated is the first web site to bring you this news.

Congratulations to Andy Boyd.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-10T07:46:00.000-04:00

Today we take an early look at projecting which newcomers will make the cut and play this fall and which newcomers will be red-shirted. There is also a detailed practice report that wass posted late last night.

BREAKING NEWS

We are trying to confirm whether or not LB Brent Davis will be returning to the team. The red-shirt freshman was in attendance at last night's practice. However, the word we got on his visit was that he wanted to tell coach Spurrier face to face that he was leaving the team for good.

Immediately after practice, he was greeted by Tray Rogers and many of his teammates. Reportedly, Davis met with defensive coordinator Ty Nix after practice and asked for the chance to return to the team. So, did Davis have a change of heart?

Stay tuned to Cockfather Illustrated for the latest on this story.

Post your comments and questions in this thread.

Go Cocks! To Hell with Clemson!

Red-shirt Forecast: Play or not to play, that is the question.

2006-08-10T02:01:00.000-04:00

While it is still early in fall camp, with only one practice in full gear under their belt, Cockfather Illustrated takes a look into the garnet crystal ball to make an early forecast on which newcomers will play, and which newcomers are headed for a red-shirt season.

QB-Chris Smelley- will likely be the backup to Blake Mitchell and play this fall.
WR-Moe Brown- will definitely play, and could start when USC uses a 3 WR set.
WR-Chris Hail- a definite red-shirt, and could move to the secondary in the spring.
OT-Hutch Eckerson- will likely be USC's 3rd offensive tackle and play significant snaps.
OG-Kevin Young- will likely play and could unseat James Thompson at RG.
OG-Garrett Anderson- too close to call at this point, a determination could come after next weeks second scrimage.
OG-Seaver Brown-definite red-shirt.
OC-Pierre Andrews- definite red-shirt.
OT-Heath Batchelor- a likely red-shirt.
DE-Eric Norwood- will play significant snaps at DE. Excellent pass rusher.
DT-Joel Reaves- will play sparingly.
DT-Kenirck Ellis- likely red-shirt
DE-Terrance Campbell-too close to call. See Garrett Anderson.
DE-Casper Brinkley- will be a starter at the bandit end position.
LB-Japser Brinkley-will be the starter at MLB.
LB-Rodney Paulk- it appears that Paulk will play on special teams and backup Marvin Sapp.
LB-Vandaral Shackleford-definite red-shirt.
CB-Captain Munnerlyn- will play in the secondary, and could return kicks.
FS-Darian Stewart- likely starter.
ROV-Emmanuel Cook- should see action on special teams and as a backup safety.
FS-Ncik Prochak- a likely red-shirt.

August 9th Practice Report

2006-08-09T23:41:00.000-04:00

The Gamecocks donned full pads for the first time tonight on the Bluff Road practice fields. Practice was spirited and up-tempo.

One of the highlights of practice was the Oklahoma Drill. Dominant performers included Dakoda Walker, Stanley Doughty, Chris White, Terrance Campbell, and Heath Batchelor.

Perhaps the highlight of the Okalhoma drill was provided by Heath Batchelor, the big freshman offensive tackle from Haleyville, AL. The 6'7 290 pound right tackle pancaked fellow freshman defensive tackle Kenrick Ellis on back to back plays.

Another highlight was Stanley Doughty throwing James Thompson aside like a rag-doll. Doughty was quick off the ball, and performed like a man on a mission.

7 on 7 Pass Skel

Blake Mitchell was very impressive, completing 9 of 12 passes. OJ Murdock was also impressive, making several nice catches, including one post corner route, where Mitchell threw the ball well before Murdock made his cut.

Freshman FS Darian Stewart had an interception on a post pattern intended for Kenny McKinley.

Freshman CB Captain Munnerlyn continues to show up in a big way. The freshman from Mobile, AL is making a strong bid for a starting position. Munnerlyn broke up a pass intended for All-American Sidney Rice on the far sideline. The 5'9 CB has excellent closing speed, and shows no fear.

It appears that senior WR Syvelle Newton is returning to form, as he made several nice plays during 7 on 7, and shows no ill effects from the torn achilles tendon he suffered during last season's Vanderbilt game.

TE David Laggis made a great catch against LB casper Brinkley on the final play of the pass skel.

11 on 11- Team Play

Practice concluded with 11 on 11 with the first team offense going aginst the first team defense, and the second team offense versus the second team defense.

First Team Defense
DE-Casper Brinkley
DT-Marque Hall
DT-Nathan Pepper
DE-Ryan Brown
SLB-Marvin Sapp
MLB-Jasper Brinkley
WLB-Cody Wells
CB-Fred Bennett
FS-Darian Stewart
ROV-Chris Hampton
CB-Stoney Woodson

First Team Offense
TE-Robert Pavlovic
LT-Gurminder Thind
LG-Tank Coleman
OC-Chris White
RG-James Thompson
RT-Jamon Meredith
WR-Sindey Rice
WR-Kenny McKinley
QB-Blake Mitchell
FB-Lanard Stafford
RB-Bobby Wallace

The first teams were evenly matched with both sides making plays. Jasper and Casper Brinkley could be the mainstays on Carolina's "No-Name" defense. the junior college twins from Thomson, GA fly to the ball and their motors never stop running. LB Marvin Sapp was also very active in the team session.

WR Mike West rotated in with the first team and made a nice catch on a tipped ball down the far sideline.

RB Bobby Wallace made a couple of nice runs, cutting back and finding a hole. Wallace showed the elusiveness he exhibited in the Clemson game last year, when he rushed for a season high 51 yards.

Second Team Defense
DE-Jordin Lindsey
DT-Joel Reaves
DT-Lem Jeanpierre
DE-Eric Norwood
SLB-Rodney Paulk
MLB-Curtis Rice
WLB-Dakoda Walker
CB-Carlos Thomas
FS-Jeremy Ware
ROV-Emmanuel Cook
CB-Captain Munnerlyn

Second Team Offense
TE-Jared Cook
LT-Hutch Eckerson
LG-Seth Edwards
OC-Web Brown
RG-Kevin Young
RT-Justin Sorensen
WR-Syvelle Newton
WR-Mo Brown
QB-Chris Smelley
FB-Clark Gaston
RB-Taylor Rank

DT Lemuel Jeanpierre continues to show up in team session. The red-shirt freshman from Orlando, FL had a sack again tonight, and also had a deflected pass. Jeanpierre showed great quickness and looks like he will be a player that will see significant snaps this fall.

DE Eric Norwood had a pair of sacks, the first coming against RT Justin Sorensen, and the second against LT Hutch Eckerson. Norwood has one of the quickest first steps on the team, and is lighning quick coming off the edge. Norwood will also see significant snaps this season.

LB Rodney Paulk also had a sack on a blitz from his Stinger linebacker position.

QB Chris Smelley may have made the play of the evening when he scrambled away from pressure and hit OJ Murdock down the right sideline for a big gain and kept the second teams touchdown drive alive. It was pure improvisation by both Murdock and Smelley, as Murdock broke his comeback route and turned up field, Smelley ascrambled to his right and lofted a perfect pass which Murdock ran under for a 20-30 yard gain.

OG Kevin Young appears to be making a strong bid for playing time, as he made several key blocks and could could challenge James Thompson for the starting RG position.

RB Taylor Rank scored from 6 yards out on 4th and goal to provide the only touchdown of the evening.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-09T07:13:00.000-04:00

Tonight marks the first time the USC football team will practice in full pads. It should be a very spirited practice. Last year, the team immediately went into one of my favorite drills, the Oklahoma drill. It is trench warfare, and a drill that spearates the prospects from the suspects.

In the Oklahoma drill, it is one-on-one at the line of scrimmage. When the ball is snapped a battle takes place in between two cones that are approx 5 yards wide between the offensive and defensive player. There is a running back in the back field who will take off running and must stay in between the cones. The defensive player must get off the block and tackle the running back. The offensive player tries to mash the defensder so the back can run free.

Coach Spurrier and staff added a new wrinkle to the drill last fall, placing a defenisve back approx 10-12 yards down field that must tackle the back should he get past the first defender.

Cockfather Illustrated will be on hand at tonights practice, and provide a full practice report later on tonight.

Post your comments and questions in this thread. If you have any particular players you would like me to watch tonight, just make the request in this thread.

Late Night Recruiting Tidbit

2006-08-09T00:36:00.000-04:00

USC assistant Ron Cooper continues to recruit the Mobile, AL area. Two new names to watch are LB Brandon Maye 6'3 228 4.7 and DE Demario Ambrose 6'4 240 4.8, both of Davidson High School. USC is showing strong interest in May, and could be close to offering. May has been offered by Southern Miss. USC recently began working Ambrose, who had a strong summer, and could blow up this fall. Ambrose has offers from Arkansas, West Virginia, Georgia Tech, and Southern Miss.

Cockfather Illustrated's Updated 10 Most Wanted List

2006-08-08T21:27:00.000-04:00

In the third edition of Cockfather Illustrated's 10 Most Wanted release of the summer, we take an inside look at USC's top 10 recruiting targets overall, regardless of position. Players will be listed alphabetically. We have taken into consideration players that will likely take an official visit to USC in rating the prospects.

CB Akeem Auguste 5'11 175 4.4 Hollywood, FL Chaminade-Madonna High School
Auguste is one of the premiere cover corners in the sunshine state, and a prospect that could very well see his stock soar during his senior season. As a junior, the 38th rated player in the state of Florida according to Rivals.com had 60 tackles and 7 interceptions. Auguste will enter the season with a top 4 of Florida, Florda State, Auburn, and South Carolina. The 4 star prospect has developed a particularly strong relationship with USC recruiter Robert Gillespie, going as far as to say that Gillespie has been like a big brother to him. The Florida Gators will be tough to beat on Auguste, but Gillespie will give the Gamecocks an excellent shot at landing this shut-down corner.

WR Jason Barnes 6'4 196 4.47 Charlotte, NC Independence High School- Although currently rated as a 3 star performer by Rivals.com, sources close to the USC program insist the Independence High School star is the best pure wide receiver prospect on the Gamecocks recruiting board. Last month, Cockfather Illustrated projected Barnes to commit to South Carolina. Since that time, Barnes has continued to go back and forth between the Tarheels and Gamecocks. It was expected that the blue chip wide receiver would make his announcement public last friday, but a family emergency caused yet another delay in Barnes decision. While nothing is certain in recruiting, a source close to the USC program still feels the Gamecocks will be the pick, so we will not change our forecast.

ATH Mark Barnes 6'2 195 4.5 Richland Northeast High School - The number 7 wide receiver prospect in America according to Rivals.com was seen on the USC practice fields Saturday evening, as the Gamecocks began the second year of The Steve Spurrier Era. The 3rd rated prospect in the Palmetto state, regardless of position, has a top two consisting of USC and Louisville. The Rivals.com top 100 member, has been long considered a USC lock, and Cockfather Illustrated projects Barnes to sign with USC, but not before he makes several trips this fall. Should the RNE two-way star be selected for the U.S. Army All-America game set to be played in January of 2007, Barnes could make his announcement before a nation-wide audience on NBC.

WR Matt Clements 6'2 185 4.34 Naples, FL Baron Collier High School- Clements has recently gone on record as saying a commitment to South Carolina could be coming as early as September, when the 43rd rated prospect in the sunshine state will make an official visit to Columbia. The Baron Collier 400m record holder also holds offers from Auburn, Clemson, Ohio State, West Virginia, Pittsburgh, and Virginia, among others. Clements would be another weapon in Steve Spurrier's offensive arsenal at USC. Clements would be the fastest receiver to play for the Gamecocks since current Minnesota Vikings receiver Troy Williamson, who was selected 7th overall in the 2005 NFL draft.

DE Carlos Dunlap 6'6 245 4.65 Fort Dorchester High School - Look for this 4 star jumbo athlete's stock to soar during his senior season, as a move into the rivals.com 100 is not out of the question. Dunlap is a monster of an athlete that could grow into a 300 pound defensive tackle on the next level. The rivals.com 250 member enters his senior season as a 16 year old who is pushing 6'7. Dunlaps father played basketball at South Carolina during the 1979-80 season for legendary coach Frank McGuire, and the elder Dunlap would prefer his son to choose South Carolina, preferably by Labor Day. While the 4 star prospect is not publicially tipping his hand, Cockfather Illustrated believes the Gamecocks hold a big lead as pre-season practice begins.

QB Stephen Garcia 6'3 217 4.7 Tampa, FL Chamberlin High School - Fresh off a strong performance at the Elite 11 QB camp, Garcia and his family made the long awaited unofficial visit to Columbia this past weekend. The trip was a success, as according to multiple sources, USC increased it's lead over Florida. The 4 star prospect was hosted by Ike Crofoot, and also hung out with local high school stars Mark Barnes, Quintin Richardson, and Cheraw DE Cliff Matthews. Garcia finished the Elite 11 camp as the third rated quarterback in the camp, coming in behind fellow Floridian John Brantley IV, and Clemson commitment Willard Korn. USC's coaches would prefer Garcia to make his decision sooner rather than later. While Garcia is publically saying he will wait until after making at least three official visits this fall before making his decision, we feel that a decision could be coming down before Labor Day.

CB Gary Gray 5'10 165 4.55 Richland Northeast High School - The rivals 5 star corner back was USC's first commitment for the class of 2007, as he held a press conference at his high school in March to make his college decision. At that time Gray chose to commit to the Gamecocks over offers from Notre Dame, FSU, FL, TN, Auburn, and Michigan, among others. The third-rated corner back prospect in the nation according to Rivlas.com had change of heart this summer, and has decided to re-open his recrutiment after an unofficial visit to South Bend, Indiana last month. Gray will visit Notre Dame officially on Sept. 16th for the Michigan game. The number two prospect in the Palmetto state regardless of position will then make his official visit to South Carolina the weekend of the Auburn game. That will give USC's coaching staff more time to spend with Gray and his family on Friday and Saturday, as the Auburn game will be played on ESPN Thursday Night Football. USC is the leader going into the season, and we firmly believe that Gray will re-affirm his pledge to the Gamecocks shortly after his official visit.

WR Dion Lecorn 6'0 205 4.48 Ocala, FL Trinity Christian Academy - Lecorn is the favorite target of 5 star quarterback John Brantley IV. The 4 star receiver is another prospect that will enter his senior season at 16 years of age, and could grow into a 230 pound bruising H-back, or a Chad Johnson type receiver. The rivals.com 250 prospect has excellent hands, and is a great open field runner. South Carolina has held the lead for Lecorn for some time now, and it appears the only thing standing between the 16th rated player in the Sunshine state from making a verbal commitment to South Carolina, is arranging a trip to Columbia with his mother. So far this summer, the Lecorn family has not been able to make that happen. Look for a September visit to USC for a home game, followed by Lecorn making his commitment to the Gamecocks.

DE Cliff Matthews 6'4 225 4.6 Cheraw High School- USC is battling the Georgia Bullodgs for the services of the nations 4th rated weak-side defensive end prospect. The 4 star prospect was in attendance last Saturday evening as the Gamecocks began fall practice. Matthews spent the day in Columbia with current USC commitment, and close friend Quintin Richardson, and had a very productive meeting with head coach Steve Spurrier and defensive line coach Brad Lawing. While maintaining a top 3 of Georgia, Clemson, and USC, in that order, Cockfather Illustrated has learned that Clemson is out of the race for Matthews, and USC is positioning itself nicely as the 5th rated Pametto prospect nears his decision date of August 17th.

DL D'Angelo McCray 6'4 289 4.7 Jacksonville, FL Andrew Jackson High School Once considered a commitment to the Florida Gators, McCray has now re-opened his recrutiment, and the Gamecocks are right in the thick of it for the 7th rated prospect in the state of Florida. The 4 star stud jumbo athlete, who also plays tight end, will be making a visit to Columbia the weekend of the Georgia game. McCray will be accompanied on that visit by his teammate and best frined, RB Troy Pollard. D-Lo would perfer to attend the same school as Pollard, and currently the only schools that are willing to make that deal are USC, Illinois, Georgia Tech, and NC State. If McCray sticks to his decision to attend the same school as Pollard, Cockfather Illustrated believes USC will be the pick, as McCray is a huge Steve Spurrier fan, and in an interview with Scout.com posted earlier this evening, stated that South Carolina was recruiting him the hardest.

Clemson takes a DAAWG

2006-08-08T18:31:00.000-04:00

Clemson has accepted a verbal commitment from 6'4 225 pound Mountainbrook, AL defensive end Drew Traylor. Traylor selected Clemson over Vanderbilt, Kentucky, and Duke. Traylor did have a conditional offer from USC, but he is not a player that South Carolina would have accepted a commitment from at this time.

Traylor is asolid player, but much more along the lines of Jordin Lindsey that Travian Robertson. This is another clear sign that Clemson does not think they will turn Robertson, and that they are out of the running for both Cheraw High School's Cliff Matthews and Fort Dorchester's Carlos Dunlap.

D.A.A.W.G. stands for Dabo's Annual Alabama White Guy. For the third consecutive year, Sweeney has dipped into the state of Alabama for a guy that the in-state schools did not want. Two years ago, Sweeney landed wide receiver Tyler Grisham from Hoover, AL. Last year, it was wide receiver Jeffrey Ogren, who is the teammate of USC freshman quarterback Chris Smelley. Let's face it, there are not that many caucasian defensive ends making impacts around the southeast. If Traylor was an elite player, he would not be leaving the state of Alabama.

Getting back to Smelley and Ogren. Clemson had both in their summer camp, passed on Smelley, the nations 8th best pro-style quarterback according to Rivals.com, yet signed Riverside High School quarterback Michael Wade, who was not selected for either the Shrine Bowl or the North-South All-Star game. Hmmm.

Going along those lines, Clemson signs Ogren, yet passes on Moe Brown, who grew up a Clemson fan, and right in their back yard at Westside High School. So let's evaluate the these two recruiting decisons.

USC signs QB Chris Smelley and WR Moe Brown. Clemson signs QB Michael Wade and WR Jeffrey Ogren. Who do you think go the best of that deal? According to sources close to the USC porgram, Smelley has the best arm on the team and throws a beautiful, catchable ball. Moe Brown has been sensational in pre-seaon practice and will play as a true freshman. Neither Wade or Ogren will play this year at Clemson, and if they ever play significant minutes at Clemson, it is an indictment on their program, as both players are dead average.

Monday Evening Recruiting Notes

2006-08-07T20:31:00.000-04:00

QB Stephen Garcia had a great visit to USC over the weekend. USC did nothing but increase it's lead over the home state Florida Gators. The Elite 11 QB hung out with USC commitment Quintin Richardson and top USC WR target Mark Barnes. At this point, Cockfather Illustrated is ready to go on record and project Garcia to South Carolina. We are not sure of the date of an announcement, but we believe it will be sooner, rather than later. Hopefully the announcement will be made before Labor Day, which would allow Stephen to concentrate on his senior season, and USC to take advantage of the recruiting momentum his commitment would provide. Garcia and Mark Barnes made a deal that they would definitely play together in college, and we firmly believe that Barnes will play his college football at South Carolina.

WR Matt Clements is a huge lean to South Carolina, and it appears all that will be needed to secure a verbal commitment from the Naples, FL speedster will be a campus visit this fall. Last month, Cockfather Illustrated brought you a Stock Report featuring Clements, and at that time, we projected a commitment from Clements. The Baron Collier High School product is one of the premiere players in the sunshine state, and will be a major addition to Steve Spurrier's offensive arsenal at South Carolina.

DE Cliff Matthews made an unofficial visit to USC over the weekend. While we do not know Matthews college destination, Cockfather Illustrated does know Matthews will not be attending Clemson. Thats right boys and girls. Matthews is down to Georgia and USC. He is tentatively scheduled to attend USC's first scrimmage this coming Saturday, August 12th. This bodes well for the Gamecocks. Matthews will be making his third trip of the past month to Columbia, and will again be meeting with head coach Steve Spurrier, recruiter David Reaves, and defensive line coach Brad Lawing. Cockfather Illustrated believes this one is too close to call, and could go all the way 'til signing day before Matthews college destination is really decided.

DE Byron McKnight of Lumberton, NC will also be in attendance on August 12th for USC's first fall scrimmage. McKnight is a heavy lean to South Carolina, and Cockfather Illustrated projects McKnight to commit to USC, perhaps as early as this coming Saturday. As we have said before, McKnight's ability speaks for itself. While he will not make the immediate impact that Robertson will, McKnight will grow into a larger player than Robertson. Two years from now, McKnight could be a 6'4 275 pound strong-side defensive end.

DL Jarius Wynn 6'5 270 Georgia Military College is a player that USC has made a conditional scholarship offer. Wynn is an outstanding talent that could play defensive end or defensive tackle on the collegiate level. The Lincolnton, GA native will be a December graduate. Clemson has jumped into the mix with Wynn, and he is a top priority for the Tigers. This speaks volumes about the state of Clemson's defensive end recruiting. Clemson lost DE Travian Robertson to South Carolina. Clemson is now out of the Cliff Matthews sweepstakes, and the Tigers are not on the recruiting radar of Fort Dorchester High School super jumbo-athlete Carlos Dunlap. USC will wait on making a decision on Wynn until they see what happens with a number of great high school players like Matthews, Dunlap, Jabaal Sheard, Jazzmen Guy, and Cortez Myles.

Doughty to return to practice

2006-08-07T18:54:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated has learned that DT Stanley Doughty has lost the weight required to return to practice on a full-time basis and will not be required to go through conditioning.

Freshman DT Kenrick Ellis has lost 18 pounds the past two days and is approaching the 325 pound limit to be able to return to practice.

Other updates will be posted as they become available.

August 6th Practice Report: Top Defensive Performances

2006-08-07T00:36:00.000-04:00

*CB Carlos Thomas was back tonight. He was dominant in one-on-one and seven-on-seven drills. The sophomore blanketed receivers and had several pass break-ups.

*CB Fred Bennett showed why he is the leader of the defense. Bennett had two picks and was outstanding in drills.

*CB Stoney Woodson continued to run with the first team, and also had a pick tonight. Woodson is much more comfortable with the defense and will log significant snaps this fall.

*USC's linebacker corps continues to perform well. They are all very athletic, can run, and have good football instincts. Jasper Brinkley, Marivn Sapp, Dakoda Walker, Gerrod Sinclair, Yvan Banag, Cody Wells, and Curtis Rice should all contribute this season.

*DT's Marque Hall, Nathan Pepper, and Lemuel Jeanpierre all had their moments in practice. Hall really looks like a bigitme defensive tackle and is very quick off the ball.

*DT Stanley Doughty just doesn't get it. He is in conditioning for a reason. Instead of exhibiting a good attitude and emracing the conditioning, Doughty finished last on every sprint ,and boitched all night long while walking laps around the practice fields.

*DT Matt Raysor ran hard for most of conditioning tonight. he showed much more effort than he has previously.

*DE Ryan Brown continues to be rock solid. The former linebacker shows great focus and competes on every play.

August 6th Practice Report: Newcomers

2006-08-07T00:13:00.000-04:00

In the August 6th edition of Cockfather Illustrated's exclusive practice reports, we will look at the newcomers that were stand-outs in tonight's practice.

*DE Eric Norwood continues to impress. He seem sto grasp the concepts being taught by assistant coach Brad Lawing. Norwood also shows excellent technique, leverage and quickness coming off the edge. You never know until they go in full gear, but I think it will be hard to keep Norwood off the field this season.

*CB Captain Munnerlyn had another great night. He is physical in press coverage, has good coverage skills , and great recovery speed. Again, I will reserve final judgment until seeing a few practices in full pads, but I think Munnerlyn plays this season.

*FS Darian Stewart continues to run with the first team and was praised by secondary coach Ron Cooper for his work in 7 on 7.

*LB Rodney Paulk showed up tonight aws he got some time with the second team defense at the Stinger Linebacker position behind Marvin Sapp. Paulk is fundamentally sound and has a nose for the football. He would benefit greatly from a red-shirt, and it is still too early to tell whether or not he will see time this fall.

*DT Kenrick Ellis continued to work on his conditioning tonight. He displays a great attitude and is on a mission to lose the necessary weight needed to re-join the team. He may need a red-shirt season, but you can tell that Ellis has character.

WR Moe Brown had another excellent night. He is really making a move on the depth chart. He had some good battles with Captain Munnerlyn and Carlos Thomas tonight. Brown will see significant time this fall and will add that vertical dimension to Steve Spurrier's offense.

QB Chris Smelley made some good throws in 7 on 7 going 3-4. Smelley has poise and seems to be grasping the offense and progressing through his reads. The back-up job is still wide open and Smelley has a chance to win the position.

RG Kevin Young ran with the first team tonight. Young is the largest freshman offensive lineman I have seen in my years of following the Gamecocks.

Garrett Anderson, who ran with the first team last night, got his reps with the second team tonight at RG. Anderson and LT Hutch Eckerson are the most athletic in the offensive line class.

August 5th Practice Report: Returning Offenisve Player Impressions

2006-08-06T13:14:00.000-04:00

Tight End should be a position of strength this season. Andy Boyd, Jared Cook, Robert Pavlovic, and David Laggis all looked to be in great shape, and able to contribute in their own way.

*Boyd is an all-around player and perhaps the top run blocker on the team.

*Pavlovic is perhaps the most improved tight end on the team. He is much more at ease in the offense and has caught the ball much better both in spring and last night.

*Cook will be a major match-up problem and could be used in a number of different ways in Spurrier's offense.

*Laggis may be the most surprising athlete of the group. He is in great shape and was one of the players leading the pack in the sprints that ended practice.

Offensive linemen Jamon Meredith, Gurminder Thind, Thomas Coleman, and Chris White were all impressive last night.

*Meredith and Thind are imposing physically, and are more athletic than their predecessors Goddard and Levey. They have a chance to be 3 year starters on the offensive line.

*White is the leader on the OL and appears to be in the best shape of his career.

*Coleman looks like an SEC guard. He is one of the strongest players on the team and poised for a strong senior season. He doesn't look or play like a walk-on.

*James Thompson was the most disappointing of the expected starters on the OL. He has the tools to be an all-SEC guard, but lacks the desire and work ethic. I am begininng to think he will never realize his potential. He is his own worst enemy.

The Wide Receiver corps will be much deeper and stronger with the return of Syvelle Newton, and maturity of Kenny McKinley.

*Sidney Rice is still Sidney Rice. The All-American showed no signs of the proverbial "Sophomore Slump." He made several great catches and was virtually unstopable in drills.

*Kenny McKinley is still a little too light for my liking, but the wiry sophomore is tough to cover and is poised for a big sophomore campaign. He dropped a couple of wet balls last night, but he will be fine.

*Mike West also had a couple of drops, but is ripped physically and runs good routes. He will have a role in this offense.

*Freddy Brown is a big, physical player that could be a factor in the red zone as he excels in going and getting the jump balls. Brown showed good hands last night.

*OJ Murdock had a disappointing night. He was man-handled in press coverage by Captain Munnerlyn. Hopefully last night will serve as a wake-up call for the former Rivals.com top 100 receiver.

All of the Quarterbacks had a good first practice. It appears that coach Spurrier will not be handcuffed like he was last season with no one to turn to if Mitchell struggles.

*Blake Mitchell is bigger physically, and threw the ball well. His comfort level is much better in season two under Spurrier.

*Tommy Beecher may have had the best day of the reserve QB's. The Concord, NC native has a good grasp of the offense, and throws the fade particularly well.

*Cade Thompson made some good throws, but still needs to get bigger physically.

With Running Back Mike Davis out of practice with a foot infection, Cory Boyd and Bobby wallace received all the reps. Lanard Stafford got all the reps when a fullback was used in 7 on 7 and 11 on 11.

*Boyd looks much faster and quicker than he did when he last played in 2004. He was used in the one back, the I-fromation, and went into motion out of the backfield. He will be a versatile player in this year's offense.

*Wallace is a good change of pace back that could be used both at tailbakc and in the slot. he also lined up in the backfied and went into motion, causing the defense to adjust on the run.

*Stafford appears to be ahead of freshman Clark Gaston and should be the starter this season.

*Taylor Rank will most likely be a special teams performer this season and see spot duty as in the backfield.

August 5th Practice Report: Returning Defenisve Player Impressions

2006-08-06T08:43:00.000-04:00

DE Ryan Brown- looks good carrying 260 pounds. Should be a very solid player this fall.

DT Marque Hall- I can't mention him enough. He will be the real deal this fall. Hall looks great at 295 and looked more confident and appeared exteremely focused.

DT Nathan Pepper- was very impressive in drills. Exhibits great work ethic and is very coachable. He was also focused and led by example.

DT Lemuel Jeanpierre- Looks lean at 278 pounds. Looked good in drills and shows great effort and is another very coachable guy.

DE Jordin Lindsey- looks much bigger physically, but was displaced on the first team by Casper Brinkley due to his inconsistent work ethic.

MLB Jasper Brinkley will be the big run stopper USC has sorely missed on defense the past four years.

LB's Marvin Sapp, Dakoda Walker, and Gerrod Sinclair may be young, but they are all very athletic and have had an excellent summer. I really like USC's LB corp.

Reserve LB's Curtis Rice and Cody Wells had great summers in the weight room and should be solid contributors.

Yvan Banag could be USC's version of "The Termite". At 5'9 212 pounds, Banag is solid as a rock and sports some impressive biceps. I'm sure Cris Ard would enjoy taking some pictures of him with his shrit off. The fact that Banag speaks French would aslo be appealing to Ard.

CB Fred Bennett carried himself like the defensive leader of the team. The 6'1 senior made one great play in 1-on-1 drills laying out and deflecting a deep ball away from the receiver, saving a touchdown.

CB Stoney Woodson ran with the first team ahead of Carlos Thomas. It is just one practice, but Thomas must improve his intensity and concentration in practice. USC needs his athleticism and man coverage skills on the field.

Redshirt Freshman CB Jeremy Ware lined up with the 2nd team at free safety last night. If Brandon Isaac does not return to practice, the move could become permanent.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-06T02:28:00.000-04:00

In todays edition of Cockfather Illustrated, we take a look at USC's first pre-season practice with several articles, including The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly , an offensive and defensive newcomers report, a report on those players not participating in the 1st practice, a look at how the two-deep looked on day one, and recruiting notes on those prospects in attendance at USC's first practice.

Coming later today, Cockfather Illustrated will provide a report on the key returnees on both sides of the ball and how they looked in USC's first practice.

August 5th Practice Report- The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

2006-08-06T01:59:00.000-04:00

The Good
*All of USC's QB's were sharp. Blake Mitchell, Tommy Beecher, and Chris Smelley were all praised by head coach Steve Spurrier. Cade Thompson also looked good.

*The Brinkely Twins. Both will be impact players on USC's defense. Many criticized their signing last December, but those same people will be glad USC took them when the season gets under way.

*WR Moe Brown may have been the fastest player on the field tonight. He ran right by Carlos Thomas on a deep route.

*Marque Hall looks like a big-time SEC defensive tackle.

*The freshman class of 2006 appears to have been better than advertised. Several "under the radar prospects like Captain Munnerlyn, Terrance Campbell, Eric Norwood, and Moe Brown look like big-time players.

*USC got WR Moe Brown and QB Chris Smelley. Neither player was offered by Clemson after they were evaluated. Instead, the Tigers signed WR Jeffrey Ogren, Smelley's high school teammate, and QB Michael Wade. USC clearly came out on top of that deal.

*Starting OT's Gurminder Thind and Jamon Meredith are physically imposing. Neither player was highly recruited, but have developed into great looking players.

The Bad
*The most disappointing player on defense was by far Carlos Thomas. The sophomore from Atlanta was expected to nail down the starting cornerback position opposite Fred Bennett. Instead, Thomas lined up with the second team, and was beaten many times in coverage.

*Heath Batchelors knees. Hopefully a red-shirt season will allow the knees to heal, but right now, Batchleor is not able to move well enough to play.

*Justin Sorensen and Jeremy Burgess. Neither look like they will contribute this fall. Web Brown was moved ahead of Burgess and ran with the 2nd team at center.

*Brandon Isaac being held out of practice. although no reason was given, Cockfather Illustrated has learned that it was not injury related.

The Ugly

*Stanley Doughty, Matt Raysor, Kenrick Ellis, and James Thompson running the entire practice for not reporting at their required weight. As for Doughty, Raysor, and Thompson, they may play very little this season unless they get their weight under control in a hurry while maintaining a team first attitude. Ellis out-hustled all of them during practice as he was seen running out ahead of the others.

*Mike Davis's foot infection.

*Noah Whiteside played and acted like a player already on a three game suspension. Whiteside's body language and lack of concentration showed throughout practice.

*Ty Erving's lack of speed. He was beaten badly by several of the WR's in drills.

August 5th Practice Report -Defensive Newcomer Impressions

2006-08-06T01:23:00.000-04:00

DE Casper Brinkley ran with the first team all evening and clearly looks the part from an athletic standpoint. Defensive line coach Brad Lawing also likes the character Brinkley brings to the table, as he has great work ethic and is very coachable. Cockfather Illustrated projects Brinkley to hold down the starting position over incumbant Jordin Lindsey.

DE Eric Norwood was also impressive and will likely be the back up to Ryan Brown. The Akworth, GA star is a legitimate 6'2 256, and will grow into a 275-280 pound strong-side defensive end. Norwood was seen working after practice with a defenisve graduate assistant coach to improve his hand technique from some of the drills used in practice. The rivals.com 3 star prospect moves very well, and looks physically ready to play.

DE Terrance Campbell is one player that really stands out from a physical standpoint. The South Cobb High School product is 6'3 270 pounds and will likely grow into a 290 pound defensive tackle. The rivlas.com 3 star prospect could play this season, but don't be surprised to see Campbell red-shirt and then move to the interrior defensive line in 2007.

DT Kenrick Ellis spent his first practice conditioning with strength coach Mark Smith. Ellis is out of shape, but for a guy that weighs 349 pounds, he doesn't look that overweight. Defensive line coach Brad Lawing would like to get 10 snaps per game out of Ellis, so he will be one to keep an eye on as fall camp progresses.

LB Rodney Paulk appears to have gained 10-15 pounds of muscle since we saw him last year at the shrine bowl. The RNE product lined up at SLB behind Marvin Sapp and Yvan Banag, but also played second team when the defense went into their nickle package. I can see Paulk playing this year in certain situations, but I know USC's coaches would love to red-shirt him and let him grow another year before playing.

LB Vandaral Shackleford is much bigger than the 191 pounds he was listed on signing day. The Riverdale, GA native moves well, but I really didn't get to see that much of him. I could definitely see him red-shirting this season.

CB Captain Munnerlyn was very impressive in one-on-one drills and drew the praise of secondary coach Ron Cooper on several ocassions. On one play he completely jammed WR OJ Murdock at the line of scrimage, and Murdock could not run his route. Munnerlyn's speed is as advertised, but what was impressive was his aggressiveness in coverage. The Mobile, AL native could be a factor on the depth chart at CB this season.

FS Darian Stewart ran with the first team the enitre practice, as Brandon Isaac sat out of practice. The Huntsivlle, AL safety is a big, physical player that can really run. He will likely avoid a red-shirt this season. Depending on Brandon Isaac's situation, Stewart could be the starter at FS.

ROV Emmanuel Cook did not disappoint from a physical standpoint. He ran with the 2nd team behind Chirs Hampton and should play this fall.

FS Nick Prochak is an impressive physical specimen. It will be interesting to track his progress this fall. The former Sparanburg High School QB has the frame to gain 20-30 pounds easily, and could play a number of positions depending on how big he gets.

August 5th Practice Report -Offensive Newcomer Impressions

2006-08-06T00:51:00.000-04:00

Easily the most impressive newcomer of day one was WR Moe Brown. The 6' 170 speedster was unstopable in one-on-one drills and in 7-on-7 pass skel. Brown made several great catches and ran by Carlos Thomas like he was in slow motion. We have been hearing great things about Brown all summer long, and the Westside High School product did nothing to disappoint on Saturday night. The biggest question mark for Brown will be when the pads go on. Will he be able to gain separation in press coverage. If Brown is able to that on a consistent basis, he will be an impact player on offense. He gets my vote as the biggest steal in the class of 2006.

QB Chris Smelley struggled early in the individual period of practice, but when the offense went to 7-on-7, Smelley excelled, making several pinpoint throws, and dropping the ball over the linebacker and under the safety versus zone coverage. He was also very accurate. The Tuscaloosa, Alabama native did nothing to change our opinion of him as a player, and I firmly believe he will have a special career at South Carolina.

RG Garrett Anderson ran with the first team all evening long, as incumbant James Thompson was in conditioning drills with strength coach Mark Smith. Anderson is a natural athlete, and Cockfather Illustrated will go ahead and project Anderson to begin the season on the two-deep at that position.

RG Kevin Young looks the part, but may need a red-shirt year. I still beleive he has a bright future ahead of him, but he is simply not as athletic as Anderson. Young is the second largest freshman I have ever seen at USC.

OT Hutch Eckerson is a natural at left tackle. Barring injury, Cockfather Illustrated projects Eckerson to be the third tackle this season. He moves extremely well and it is evident that he comes from a good high school program as his stance and footwork are superior.

RT Heath Batchelor has some serious knee ailments and will, in all likelyhood, be red-shirted. The big Haleyville AL prospect looks ready to play from a physical standpoint, but because of the knee problem, we project him to red-shirt.

OG Seaver Brown has good size and will benefit greatly from a red-shirt season. He projects as a center or guard.

OG Pierre Andrews is another prospect that will greatly benefit from a red-shirt. I was impressed with his athleticism in the shirne bowl, and I still expect him to become a quality offensive lineman down the road.

Chris Hail was a surprise participant at wide receiver. The Lovejoy High School product was projected at cornerback, but now will begin his career as a wide receiver. Hail appears to run well, but will likely red-shirt in 2006.

WR Marquise Brown is the son of former Washington Redskin great Charlie Brown. He is a preferred walk-on and practiced with the team last night. Marquise is a carbon copy of his father; a small, but quick receiver with good hands. It will be interesting to follow his development through fall camp.

August 5th Practice Report - Players that did not practice

2006-08-06T00:38:00.000-04:00

Several key players were held out of practice for various reasons. As practice began, DL Stanley Doughty, Matt Raysor, and Kenrick Ellis, were all sent to see strength coach Mark Smith. OG James Thompson, WR Syvelle Newton and FB Brian Kingerly were also ordered to report to Coach Smith. Those players were put through a series of sprints, and ran or walked around the practice field the entire length of practice.

Starting running back Mike Davis was held out of practice due to a serious case of athletes foot. He is currently being treated with anti-biotics and is listed as day-to-day.

Safety Brandon Isaac was held out of practice for an unspecified reason.

August 5th Practice Report- 2 Deep

2006-08-06T00:25:00.000-04:00

Defense
DE- Capser Brinkley/Jordin Lindsey
DT- Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DT- Nathan Pepper/Joel Reaves
DE- Ryan Brown/Eric Norwood
SLB-Marvin Sapp/Yvan Banag
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice
WLB-Dakoda Walker/Cody Wells or Gerrod Sinclair
CB- Stoney Woodson/Carlos Thomas
FS-Darian Stewart/Jeremy Ware
SS-Chirs Hampton/Emmanuel Cook
CB-Fred Bennett/Captain Munnerlyn

Offense
TE-Andy Boyd/Jared Cook or Robert Pavlovic
LT-Gurminder Thind/Hutch Eckerson
LG-Thomas Coleman/Seth Edwards
OC-Chris White/Web Brown
RG-Garrett Anderson/Kevin Young
RT-Jamon Meredith/Justin Sorensen
WR-Sidney Rice/Mike West
WR-Kenny McKinley/Moe Brown
QB-Blake Mitchell/Cade Thompson
FB-Lanard Stafford/Clark Gaston
RB-Cory Boyd/Bobby Wallace

August 5th Recruiting Notes Fom Practice

2006-08-06T00:10:00.000-04:00

*QB Stephen Garcia was at practice Saturday night. He watched the QB's and the 7 on 7. His mother was also there. Reportedly he visit is going very well.

*WR Mark Barnes was also in attendance, along with RNE junior LB Chaz Washington.

*DE Cliff Matthews was in Columbia for most of the day on Saturday and attended the first half of practice. He reportedly had an excellent time in Columbia, and USC is a bigger factor than our Orange nieghbors in Pickens County would like to believe. Cockfather Illustrated believes Matthews decision will come down to Georgia and USC.

*USC commitment Quintin Richardson was also in attendance Saturday night. He was interacting with Garcia and Mattthews.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-05T09:07:00.000-04:00

Today is August 5th, and the first day of practice for USC's football program. Cockfather Illustrated will be on the scene tonight from the practice fields on Bluff Road to bring you our impressions of the first day of practice.

Inside Cockfather Illustrated today, we give you our impressions of Media Day, and take a look at what today signifies in our article announcing the arrival of football season.

Post your comments and questions here.

Go Gamecocks! To Hell with Clemson.

Media Day Impressions

2006-08-05T07:53:00.000-04:00

Cockfather Illustrated was on hand for media day yesterday, and below will list some impressions about this years team, and more specifically about the players that caught our eye.

*Blake Mitchell has the respect of his teammates. Make no mistake about it, this is Blake Mitchell's team. Mitchell not only has the respect of his teammates, but appears to carry himself with more confidence than at anytime since he has been in Columbia. He is bigger physically, having gained about 15 pounds of muscle in the off season, and the red-shirt junior appears poised for a big season in his second season as the starting QB under Steve Spurrier.

*Syvelle Newton is ready to go. Not many people, including myself, believed that Newton would be able to play this season. It still remains to be seen if Newton will run with the same confidence, shiftiness, and bursts of speed he has been known for in his career at USC, but the senior is ready physically to prove that he is still the same player that has electrified crowds, and provided plenty of big plays in a Gamecock uniform.

*Marque Hall is back. Last season no player entered the 2005 season with more expectations that defensive tackle Marque Hall. But for Hall, and Gamecock fans, it was a disappointing season, as Hall was sick most of the pre-season and lost over 20 pounds and played most of the season at about 268 pounds. This year, the former prep-All American from Marshville, NC has gotten his weight up to 295 pounds and is ripped. Hall looks the part of a big-time SEC defensive tackle. I fully expect him to play like one this season.

*The Brinkley brothers may have been the most significant additions to the USC program from the 2006 recruiting class. Jasper Brinkley enrolled at USC in January and went out and earned the starting MLB position during spring practice. He was dominant throughout the spring. His twin brother Casper arrived in June, and by all accounts has been equally impressive in summer workouts. Casper will attempt to earn a starting job at defensive end. Both have excellent size and speed. Both look the part of SEC players. From conversations with GMC, and USC coaches, both possess excellent character. Both will be needed if USC is to improve it's defense this fall.

*Jared Cook looks like an NFL Tight end. There will not be a player that will look better in a uniform than the 6'6 235 pound Cook. He should make an immediate impact on USC's offense this season.

*Chris Smelley carries himself with great poise and confidence. I was very impressed with Chris Smelley yesterday. he didn't act like a true freshman that wasn't sure if he belonged. Instead the 6'3 210 pound Qb seemed at ease around members of the media, and conducted interviews with a quiet confidence and ease. Smelley is a natural, folks. Great things lie ahead for this young man in his career as a Carolina quarterback.

*Emmanuel Cook certainly looks the part. The freshman from West Palm Beach FL is already the most talked about freshman in the weight room, and would expect nothing less if he is the most talked about freshman on the practice field. Cook will compete with Chris Hampton for the starting ROV position in USC's secondary.

*Sidney Rice is still Sidney Rice. It would have been easy for the freshman phenom to have taken it easy in the off-season after his record setting performance in 2005. Instead, rice has dedicated himself in the weight room and has gained 15 pounds of muscle. Rice is on a mission to show the rest of the country that he is the premiere wide receiver in college football.

*Mike Davis and Cory Boyd will be the Gamecocks version of The Dynamic Duo. Davis doesn't resemble the timid freshman that was thrust into a starting role last season due to the suspension of Boyd. Cory Boyd is back with a vengeance, and on a mission. USC's tandem will be in the shadow of another set of runningbacks that will play in the upstate this fall. If you ask Boyd where the best running backs in the state play, he will tell you it's in Columbia. He says "just check back with me at the end of the season, and we'll see then" is what Boyd said when he was asked about the more highly regarded tandem of James Davis and C.J. Spiller.

*Terrance Campbell and Eric Norwood look great. I was surprised at how big Terrance Campbell has gotten since he signed with USC in February. While he will play defensive end this season, don't be surprised if he isn't moved inside next year and ultimately plays aat 290 pounds. Norwood looks more like 6'2 than the 6'0 1/2 that Cris Ard said he was last February. I expect both of these freshmen to play this season.

*The Grinder will emerge. Starting left offensive tackle Gurminder Thind already has a fan following, and I expect that following to grow by leaps and bounds this season. Thind has been praised for his pass blocking skills and weight room work ethic. Players on last year's team felt Thind was the best pass blocker on the team, including USC seniors NaShon Goddard and Jabari Levey. If all goes as planned, USC will have a pair of bookend tackles that can grow up together in Thind and fellow red-shirt sophomore Jamon Meredith.

*This will be USC's most athletic group of linebackers since the Outback Bowl teams of 2000 and 2001. Marvin Sapp, Jasper Brinkley, Dakoda Walker, Gerrod Sinclair, Curtis Rice, and Yvan Banag will make more plays than their predecessors. All of them can run and tackle. This should be a fin group to watch. don't be surprised if Rodney Paulk isn't in the mix for playing time as well.

*Steve Spurrier will play with a loaded gun in 2006. Towards the end of last season, Spurrier often went into games like Barney Fife, with only a single bullet for his pistol. That will not be the case this year. USC's offense should be explosive. With Cory Boyd, Mike Davis, Syvelle Newton, Sidney Rice, Kenny McKinley, Jared Cook, Mike West,OJ Murdock, and Moe Brown, the possibilities are limitless for The Evil Genius.

*Kenrick Ellis, Kevin Young, and Heath Batchelor are Huge. I cannot remember three larger freshmen in the same class as these guys. Garrett Anderson and Hutch Eckerson look great as well. If SEC games games are won and lost in the trenches, I feel good about the future of Gamecock football with the linemen that were brought into the program this year.

FOOTBALL SEASON HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!

2006-08-05T07:30:00.000-04:00

Today is August 5, 2006. Just another Saturday, right? Wrong! Today is the day many of us have waited for since the end of spring. It is a day Steve Spurrier has waited for since Carolina's miserable performance in the second half of last year's Independence Bowl, where he complained that the players didn't care very much that they blew a 28-7 lead to Missouri in a 38-31 loss.

Today represents a new beginning, a day filled with anticipation. Today represents the beginning of a journey that will lead down a road no one, including the head ball coach, knows will end. What lies ahead for the 2006 Gamecocks? Will they improve upon last years 7-5 record? Will this be the year the "Fun 'n Gun" offense gets untracked? Will USC's defense improve upon last years second half collapse in the Independence Bowl?

Today is the day that begins a journey for a highly rated recruiting class, and many red-shirt freshmen that will be depended upon heavily if this is to be a successful season. Today begins the last go 'round for players like Syvelle Newton, Chris White, Fred Bennett, Thomas Coleman, and Brandon Isaac.

For tens of thousands of Gamecock fans, today marks the beginning of "Hope." As I told my good friend Marty Lambert, as Gamecock fans, sometimes all we have is hope. We "hope" that this will be the year that Steve Spurrier beats Clemson. We "hope" this will be the year that the Gamecocks somehow find a way to win 8 or 9 games and make a new years day bowl game. We "hope" that this is the year is that begins the 10 year run of 8 to 10 win seasons and a string of victories over our in-state arch rival, and an SEC Championship.

Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated

2006-08-04T07:42:00.000-04:00

Today we have a Jason Barnes update, some basketball notes, and a football preview of USC's defensive newcomers.

Well, it is finally here. Media day is today, and practice starts tomorrow. Look for Coach Spurrier or the SID office to make an announcement on a couple of players that will not be with the team this year. It appears that Mychael Belcher's USC career is over before it ever began. It is also looking like Dustin Lindsey will transfer to Troy State, but that is still not 100 percent confirmed at this point.There is one other player that had not reported as of yesterday. It is unclear as to whether that player will re-join the team before practice begins on Saturday.

Post your comments and questions in this thread.

Jason Barnes Tidbit

2006-08-04T07:28:00.000-04:00

While WR Jason Barnes has delayed his decision until next week, I don't think there should be any concern by Gamecock fans. Cockfather Illustrated still projects the 6'4 197 pound prospect to choose the Gamecocks next week. There are a number of factors working for USC in this one, very similar to the Travian Robertson situation. First, the parents really want Jason in Columbia next fall. They are totally sold on the USC and the coaches ability to develop Jason both from an athletic and academic standpoint. Second, USC has help on the coaching staff. Not only is USC recruiter Fed Chatham and Independence head coach Tommy Knotts very good friends, Barnes position coach is former Florida WR Steve Shipp, who played under Coach Steve Spurrier at Florida. reportedly Shipp also has a good relationship with USC receiver coach Steve Spurrier, Jr.

USC Basketball Tidbits August 4th, 2006

2006-08-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

I spoke with a source close to the basketball program yesterday. With the losses of Kinsey, Trice and Balkman, this year's team will be extremely young. Look for a starting lineup with three freshmen in it.
PG-Tre Kelly
SG-Brandis Raley
WF-Dominique Archie
PF-Brandon Wallace
C-Mitchell Carter.

USC's recruiting class is shaping up nicely with early commitments WF Aaron Ellis, PF/C Sam Muldrow, and combo forward Michael Holmes. USC would like to sign a center to round out this years class. One USC assistant coach spent a good portion of the July evaluation period overseas. In fact, USC had a European bigman ready to come in this year, but USC's admissions department told the staff that it was too late for the prospect to be admitted in time for the fall semester. I would not be a bit surprised to see USC bring in an Eastern European bigman in this class.

Make no mistake about it, 6'8 forward Chad Gray would have been the impact player in this incoming freshman class, and an upgrade in both talent and attitude from the departed Renaldo Balkman. I was told by my source that the staff was absolutely shocked that Balkman was selected 20th in the first round of the NBA draft. It is quite possible that Balkman would have gone unselected had the Knicks not taken him. While my source said the staff was happy for Balkman, they are also relieved they will not have to deal with his attitude and mood swings anymore.

USC Football Preview: Defensive Newcomers To Watch

2006-08-04T00:39:00.000-04:00

The Gamecocks open fall camp with several question marks on defense, and will depend heavily upon newcomers not only to provide depth, but to also compete for starting positions at defensive end, linebacker, and in the secondary. In this report, Cockfather Illustrated will profile the newcomers that will vie for those positions, including junior college transfers, incoming and red-shirt freshmen.

DE Casper Brinkley 6'3 250 Georgia Military College - Played the same position at GMC in their 3-3-5 defense as former USC All-American Kalimba Edwards. Brinkley has been in Columbia all summer working out, and has been one of the most impressive athletes on the team in voluntary workouts. Casper is taller and a little more athletic than his twin brother jasper, who will be the Gamecocks starting middle linebacker. Defensive line coach Brad Lawing will be counting on C. Brinkley to become an immediate impact player at one of the defensive end positions. Cockfather Illustrated projects the Thomson, GA native to start opposite Ryan Brown in the season opener versus Mississippi State.

LB Jasper Brinkley 6'2 250 Georgia Military College - Enrolled at USC in January and immediately became the most impressive athlete on the defense. Brinkley brings the size, athleticism, and attitude to the MLB position most common at upper-echelon SEC have on a yearly basis. Head Football Coach Steve Spurrier described Brinkley as "one of those middle linebackers like Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee have." Brinkley was so physical in spring practice that Spurrier had to "get him to tone it down a little bit" because the head ball coach didn't want Brinkley to hurt anyone. If USC's defense is to stop the run this season, Brinkley will have to have a big season.

DE Terrance Campbell 6'4 270 Austell, GA - Campbell is the former teammate of current USC wide receiver Kenny McKinley. The 3 star prospect from South Cobb High School is a big, athletic, defensive end that could eventually grow into a defensive tackle. He will be given the opportunity to compete for a back-up role at defensive end when fall camp opens Saturday. Defensive line coach Brad Lawing is very high on this group of newcomers to the defensive line and Campbell is no exception. He will vie for one of the back-up defensive end positions. Campbell, who was also a starter on the basketball team, chose USC over Louisville, and Arkansas.

ROV Emmanuel Cook 5'11 205 West Palm Beach, FL - Cook was Florida's 6A Player of the Year after rushing for over 2000 yards and 29 TD's. The RB/LB lead his Palm Beach Gardens team to a 49-29 victory in the State Championship game in which he rushed for 249 yards and 4 TD's. Many prep football experts believe Cook was the most under-rated player in the sunshine state last year. Cook compete immediately for the ROV position vacated by All-American Ko Simpson. He chose USC over offers from NC State, Ole Miss, Minnesota, and Arizona State.

DT Kenrick Ellis 6'5 335 Lake Worth, FL - Ellis may be the largest defensive tackle prospect ever signed by the Gamecocks. The south Florida star is close friends with fellow signee Emmanuel Cook. The Jamaica native moves extremely well for a man his size, and defensive line coach Brad Lawing would like to see Ellis play 10-15 snaps per game this season. The Predator chose USC over Tennessee, NC State, Florida, and Rutgers.

DT Lemuel Jeanpierre 6'4 280 Orlando, FL - after arriving last year as a 245 pound defensive end, Jeanpierre has bulked up and made the natural progression to the interior defensive line. He will enter fall camp as the back-up to Marque Hall. The former Edgewater High School star is becoming a favorite of defensive line coach Brad Lawing because of his work ethic and ability to grasp the concepts being taught in the new defensive scheme. Jeanpierre should be a serviceable backup this fall. Coming out of high school, Jeanpierre chose USC over Georgia Tech, Louisville, Northwestern, and Wake Forest.

CB Captain Munnerlyn 5'9 175 Mobile, AL - Munnerlyn is perhaps the fastest player signed thus far in the Steve Spurrier era. Timed as low as 4.25 seconds in the 40-yard dash, Munnerlyn will likely get a look primarily as a kick returner this fall. USC's coaches would like to use Munnerlyn's speed to aid the return game. He could also get a look as a reserve cover corner. The all-state selection was outstanding in this summer's Alabama-Mississippi all star game. In that contest, Munnerlyn made the play of the game by stripping the ball and returning it 30 yards for a touchdown in Alabama's victory. The Mobile speedster, who ran a 10.43 100m as a junior, chose USC over West Virginia and Kansas State.

DE Eric Norwwood 6'2 256 Acworth, GA - According to those in attendance, Norwood was the most impressive player in the Georgia North-South all star game after totaling 8 tackles, 4 sacks, and forcing 2 fumbles. After originally committing to Oklahoma State early last fall, Norwood reconsidered his decision and eventually chose USC over Auburn.

LB Rodney Paulk 6'0 208 Richland Northeast High School - Paulk was the first commitment in the Gamecocks class of 2006. The shrine bowl performer went on to have a record setting senior season, recording an amazing 174 tackles and leading his team to the 4A State Championship game. Paulk as been working out all summer with the team and has increased his body weight from 195 to 208. He will be given a look at one of the inside linebacker positions. USC would like to red-shirt Paulk because he graduated a year early from high school and will only be 17 this season. The 9th rated prospect in SC according to Rivals.com chose USC over Virginia Tech and North Carolina.

LB Gerrod Sinclair 6'0 221 Jacksonville, FL - The former Mandarin High School star arrived at USC last year as a 205 pound safety, but after a great off-season, Sinclair will enter fall camp as the starter at WLB, and weighing 221 pounds. His position will be one of the more interesting position battles of the fall, as former DE Dakoda Walker will move over to that position and challenge Sinclair through out fall camp. Gerrod chose to sing with USC over offers from Clemson, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia Tech, and NC State.

LB Vandaral Shackleford 6'1 220 Riverdale, GA - Shackelford was selected as the Metro Atlanta Defensive Player of the Year last season after making 127 tackles and 2 sacks. the honor roll student was offered by Georgia, Vanderbilt, Duke, and Wake Forest. Shack could play either inside or outside linebacker. USC would like to red-shirt either Paul or Shackleford, so look for only one of the two to play.

FS Darian Stewart 6'0 205 Huntsville, AL - Stewart could wind up being the steal of the class of 2006. He was perhaps the top safety prospect in the state of Alabama last year, but was under-recruited due to academic concerns. USC secondary Ron Cooper is also a Huntsville native and Lee high School alumnus, and still has strong ties to the school from his days as head football coach at Alabama A&M. Stewart improved his academic standing with a strong first semester, and USC came in and wrapped up a commitment from the all state free safety before other schools became aware that he projected to qualify. For the season, he made 74 tackles and had 6 interceptions. He also had 34 receptions for 854 yards and 11 touchdowns. Stewart also averaged 20 points per game in basketball during his senior season, and chose USC over Louisville, Southern Miss, Kentucky, and Georgia Tech.

General Discussion Thread for Aug. 3rd

2006-08-03T07:47:00.000-04:00

Post comments and questions here.

USC Football Preview: Offensive Newcomers To Watch

2006-08-03T07:18:00.000-04:00

The second year of the Steve Spurrier Era gets under way Saturday, August 5th. In this report, Cockfather Illustrated will preview the top offensive newcomers to watch as fall practice begins. This report will include all first year players, both red-shirts, and incoming players will be profiled.

OL Garrett Anderson 6'5 285 Dutch Fork High School- The big offensive lineman finished the season as the second rated player in the palmetto state according to Rivals.com. Anderson was dominant at the North Carolina-South Carolina Shrine Bowl last December, and will be one of the four incoming freshmen that will get a long look along the offensive line for the Gamecocks. The 4 star prospect could play any of the positions along the offensive line, and will most likely be tried at both guard and tackle. if at all possible the Gamecock coaches would like to red-shirt Anderson, as he is a year ahead of his class. Garrett should be a senior in high school this year, but was moved ahead a grade due to his academic excellence. Anderson chose USC over Clemson, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia.

OL Heath Batchelor 6'7 290 Haleyville, AL - Another big guy that will be thrown into the mix at offensive tackle. Batchelor originally committed to Georgia Tech early last fall, but later decided to play for the Head Ball Coach at USC. Batchelor is friends with Chris Smelley, and it was because of that relationship that made Batchelor a Gamecock. On signing day, the Auburn Tigers tried to steal Batchelor away from the Gamecocks with a last minute scholarship offer, but Batchelor decided to stay firm with his pledge to join Smelley in Columbia. Batchelor is a good athlete that will get a look at right offensive tackle. He will certainly be one of USC's freshmen, as he boasts a 400 pound bench press.

WR Moe Brown 6'1 170 Westside High School - The Anderson, SC speedster was one of USC's earliest commitments of the class of 2006, committing after receiving a scholarship offer following an impressive performance at Steve Spurrier's summer football camp. At that time, Brown was an unknown. But after a strong senior season, Brown was named All-State and was selected to the South Carolina Shrine Bowl team. USC wide receiver coach Steve Spurrier, Jr. is very high on Brown, and expects him to be a part of the WR rotation this season. A national caliber track athlete, Brown possesses outstanding speed and elusiveness in the open field. I have a feeling he will quickly become a crowd favorite this fall. Brown chose USC over Tennessee.

TE Jared Cook 6'5 235 Suwannee, GA- The big red-shirt freshman was a member of Steve Spurrier's first recruiting class at USC, and was a stand-out performer this spring after making the move from wide receiver to tight end. Cook should present some serious match-up problems for opposing defensive coordinators the next several seasons. rumor has it that USC All-American WR Sidney Rice said the only WR in the SEC he considers better than himself is Jared Cook. Cook chose USC over Ohio State and Mississippi State.

FB Clark Gaston 6'3 238 Ooltewah, TN - Gaston was another early commitment for the Gamecocks in the class of 2006. He graduated high school in December and joined the team in January. The big fullback was impressive at times in the spring, and should benefit from summer workouts and becoming more familiar with USC's offense. Gaston can carry the ball, block and catch out of the backfield. He could become a valuable asset for USC's offense. Gaston chose USC over offers from Wake Forest, Vandy, UNC, and Kentucky.

OL Hutch Eckerson 6'6 290 Lumberton, NC - Perhaps the top OL signee in the class of 2006, Eckerson will be counted on to compete immediately for the left tackle position, and could become USC's third option at OT, serving as a back-up to both Thind and RT Jamon Meredith. The Rivals 4 star prospect was extremely impressive in the North Carolina-South Carolina Shrine Bowl last December. Eckerson has added about 20 pounds since signing with the Gamecocks last February over Virginia Tech.

WR OJ Murdock 6'0 175 Tampa, FL - The rivals 100 WR prospect arrived at USC as perhaps the most celebrated signee of Steve Spurrier's first recruiting class. The 4 star prospect spurned the home state Florida Gators on signing day to play for the Gamecocks. Murdock was banged up in fall practice last year, injuring a knee, and was forced to red-shirt. A national caliber sprinter coming out of Middleton High School, Murdock will bring a true deep threat to Steve Spurrier's offense this fall. Wide receivers coach Steve Spurrier, Jr. fully expects Murdock to play a major role in the offense. Head Coach Steve Spurrier has been critical of the speedster work ethic in the off-season, but there is no denying Murdocks talent and speed.

QB Chris Smelley 6'3 215 Tuscaloosa, AL- Rated as the 8th best pro-style QB in the nation by Rivals.com, Smelley arrives at USC with high praise from head football coach Steve Spurrier and high expectations from the fan base after a phenomenal high school career. Last season at American Christian Academy, Smelley passed for over 4100 yards and an astounding 59 touchdown passes. The big signal caller, who doubled as an all-star catcher on his schools baseball team, grew up a huge Alabama fan, but the Crimson Tide spurned Smelley and put all their eggs in the Tim Teebow basket. By the time Teebow chose Florida over Alabama, Smelley had already made his decision to attend South Carolina, and never wavered. Smelley even made an extra trip to Columbia in January to help recruit some future teammates to Columbia. Spurrier has said that he will throw Smelley in the mix immediately and see how quickly the 4 star signal caller can pick up the head ball coach's offensive system. Smelley chose USC over offense from Louisville, Tennessee, Ole Miss, and NC State.

QB Cade Thompson 6'2 181 Maryville, TN - After a strong showing in USC's spring game in April, Cade Thompson has positioned himself as the clear cut number two QB ahead of returners Tommy Beecher and Brett Nichols. It remains to be seen if Thompson will hold off incoming freshman Chris Smelley and remain the back-up to returning starter Blake Mitchell. After the spring game, head coach Steve Spurrier said that he hoped that Cade would be able to challenge Blake this fall, as competition makes everyone better. In that spring game, Thompson was 10-13 for 136 yards and 2 TD passes. Thompson's biggest obstacle thus far as been the ability to gain weight. At 181 pounds, he is undersized to absorb the punishment that SEC quarterbacks must endure on a weekly basis. coming out of Maryville high School, Thompson led his team to an undfeated season and a State Championship. In fact, in three years as a starter, Thompson had a record of 34-1 and two State titles. He chose to attend USc after de-committing from North Carolina.

OL Kevin Young 6'5 335 Clearwater, FL - Young will be counted on to be a contributor at offensive guard immediately. The 4 star prospect has all the tools needed to excel at the collegiate level. Young represented Florida in the prestigious California-Florida all-star game, after an excellent senior season. Young committed to USC last fall over offers from Florida, Florida State, and Miami.

General Discussion Thread for Aug. 2nd

2006-08-02T08:13:00.000-04:00

Post questions and comments here.

Cockfather Illustrated's Hot List for August 2nd, 2007

2006-08-02T00:23:00.000-04:00

In the first version of Cockfather Illustrated's Hot List, we will take a look at several "hot" prospects on the Gamecocks recruiting board. "Hot" means that the player could be either making a decision soon or shaking up things in the recruiting process.

1) DL D'Angelo McCray 6'4 290 4.7 Jacksonville, FL- This jumbo-athlete is currently rated as the 4th best strong-side defensive end prospect in the country according to Rivals.com. McCray had earlier committed to the Florida Gators, but backed off of that commitment late last week. South Carolina has jumped into the mix and is a very appealing alternative to McCray for several reasons. McCray grew up following Florida football under Steve Spurrier. The idea of playing for coach Spurrier at South Carolina is very appealing to McCray. McCray also wants to go where his services are needed immediately. Rated as the 43rd best player in America, McCray realizes their is a great opportunity to play early at South Carolina. McCray also wants to continue his football career with his high school teammate Troy Pollard. The 5'8 180 pound Running back with 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash is very similar to current USC running back Bobby Wallace. Pollard could also play slot receiver and return kicks at the collegiate level. Steve Spurrier, Jr. and Brad Lawing are recruiting McCray for the Gamecocks.

2) WR Jason Barnes 6'4 197 4.45 Charlotte, NC - Perhaps the most underrated wide receiver on South Carolina's board is this Independence High School product. Sources close to USC's program think that Barnes could be the best pure wide receiver USC is recruiting. The big WR was extremely impressive at the Athens, GA Nike Camp in April. Barnes possesses a unique combination of size, speed, and hands. Look for Barnes to reach 4 star status during his senior season and blow up at the Shrine Bowl. An announcement is set for Friday on Barnes college decision, and as of tonight, all indications are it will be South Carolina. Fred Chatham and Steve Spurrier, Jr. are recruiting Barnes for the Gamecocks.

3) QB Stephen Garcia 6'3 205 4.7 Tampa, FL - Fresh off an an impressive appearance at the Elite 11 QB camp, Garcia and his parents will be on campus this weekend as South Carolina opens fall practice. This will be Garcia's second trip to Columbia, but the first time his parents have made the trip. USC has lead for months and will push for an early decision from Garcia during this trip. An early decision would be beneficial for both Stephen and the Gamecocks. For Stephen, he could get his college decision out of the way and soley concentrate on his senior season. For USC, they get their prized QB commitment, and a big bump in recruiting momentum. David Reaves is recruiting Garcia for the Gamecocks.

4) CB Jamire Williams 6'0 180 4.4 Jacksonville, FL - Fresh off an impressive appearance at Florida's "Friday Night Lights", Williams did receive an offer from the Gators late last week. However, news broke over the weekend that despite that offer, South Carolina was the clear leader and that a decision could be imminent. Williams backed off that stance publicly, but Cockfather Illustrated believes that the high 3 star CB could fall for the Gamecocks anytime between now and September 9th. That is the date Williams and several other Jacksonville area prospects will be making unofficial visits to USC. Steve Spurrier, Jr. is recruiting Williams for the Gamecocks.

5) DE Cortez Myles 6'3 255 4.7 Madison, MS - The 4 star prospect continues to favor South Carolina and could commit before the start of the 2006 season. Myles projects as a defensive tackle on the collegiate level and is exactly what Brad Lawing is looking for in that, the Mississippi product is a big defensive end that can run, but has the body type to grow into an inside player that will maintain excellent speed. Robert Gillespie and Brad Lawing are recruiting Myles for the Gamecocks.

6) DE Carlos Dunlap 6'6 240 4.7 Fort Dorchester High School - The 4 star defensive line prospect is not publicly tipping his hand, but according to multiple sources, Dunlap favors USC and his father would prefer that Carlos make his announcement before Labor Day. The Rivals.com 250 selection is a prime candidate to move into the Rivals 100 by seasons end with a strong senior season. Brad Lawing and Steve Spurrier, Jr. are recruiting Dunlap for the Gamecocks.

7) FS/SS Arkee Smith 6'1 190 4.5 Jacksonville, FL - The teammate of CB Jamire Williams at First Coast High School, Smith has flown under the recruiting radar for much of the summer. The big safety was impressive at USC's summer camp and received a scholarship on the spot. Williams has great size and speed and could play either safety position at the next level. Smith was also rumored to have been close to committing to USC over the weekend and is another player that could commit at any time. Steve Spurrier, Jr. is recruiting for the Gamecocks

8) WR Matt Clements 6'2 185 4.34 Naples, FL - A pure speed receiever is just what Steve Spurrier needs for his offense, and Clements would be the perfect fit. The 6'2 Barron Collier High School product is a major burner. Clements film is reminiscent of former USC and current Minnesota Vikings receiver Troy Williamson. Clements will play QB this season, but is a natural wide receiver. Clements has favored USC for much of the recruiting process and would like to have his decision out of the way within the next month. USC will have to hold off a strong push from Ohio State to secure Clements commitment. Robet Gillespie and Steve Spurrier, Jr. are recruiting for the Gamecocks.

9) CB Gary Gray 5'10 165 4.5 Richland Northeast High School - The 5 star rated prospect from Columbia was USC's first commitment for the class of 2007 but backed off that commitment and will make official visits to both USC and Notre Dame. Gray was originially scheduled to take his offical visit to USC for the Georiga game on September 9th. But today, USC's coaches asked Gray to reschedule for the weekend of the Auburn game. This will not only give USC the last shot at Gray before he makes his second verbal commitment, but it will give the USC staff all day to spend with the local prospect. Cockfather Illustrated still projects Gray to re-commit to USC shortly after that visit.

General Discussion for August 1st***

2006-08-01T13:42:00.000-04:00

Post comments and questions here.

Mail Call August 1st, 2006

2006-08-01T11:46:00.001-04:00

Dear Cockfather, I really enjoy the site. Thanks for all you do. How big of a pickup was Travian Robertson?
-Jacyn in Lancaster

Cockfather Illustrated - Jacyn, thanks for the kind words. Getting Travian Robertson last Thursday was HUGE for South Carolina's recruiting momentum. Not only is he a great player, but they took him from arch-rival Clemson. That's right boys and girls, Clemson. After Robertson's last visit to Clemson, from a Clemson point of view, it was a done deal. Every Clemson internet site, every fan, every one of their coaches were convincved that he was going to commit to Clemson. One web site even called it 100 percent guaranteed. Another went on state wide radio and declared Robertson 100% done. They even declared that Robertson had already commited to Clemson. The truth is, that yes, Clemson did lead, but at no time and I repeat, at no time did Robertson commit to Clemson's coaches. Both he, his family, and his high school coach Mark Barnes were adament about that at Travian's press conference. For a Clemson internet guy to claim that he knew for a fact that Travian had committed to Clemson, is pure fantasy. Travian's parents were also adament that Robertson is now 100 percent committed to USC and the recruiting is over. The family and the head coach has contacted the other schools and told them not to call or write becauase the recruiting process is over.

One note to USC fans. You can thank the relentless efforts of new defensive assistant coach Brad Lawing for securing Robertson's commitment. In travian's press conference and subsequent interview, Brad Lawings name was mentioned repeatedly as a major reason why he chose to attend USC. lawing has drawn major criticism from both UNC and Clemosn internet sites for dirty recruiting,a nd they have made very hurtful accusations. I can tell you that Brad Lawing is not only a great recruiter, but a great family man and assistant coach. these accusations leveled at him, only fuel the fire within him to out-coach and out-recruit everyone is the path of USC and an SEC Championship. USC is fortunate to have a man with the character and integrity of Brad Lawing.

Dear Cockfather, I know how disappointed Clemson was to lose Robertson. It was crushing. So my question is, did USC offer Byron McKnight to seal the deal with Travian Robertson?
-Billy in Clemson

Cockfather Illustrated- Billy, certainly it was a big loss for Clemson. They have a huge need at the defensive end position. Outside of Ricky Sapp, Clemson has no one with the speed coming off the edge like Travian Robertson. Phillip Merling is a good player, but lacks the great speed needed to be a player like senior Gaines Adams. In fact, Clemson considered moving Merling inside to defensive tackle, but they have no one else to play his DE position. Jamie Cumbie is not a defensive end, he is more likely to project as an offensive tackle after a red-shirt year. Clemson could have offered both players just like USC, because they do need pass rushers.

To answer your question, Byron McKnight is a player that USC had in summer camp and the defensive coaches were able to see him in action and a really make a good evaluation. McKnight, who stands over 6'4 and weighs 220 pounds, is a bit of an unknown, because he has only played one year of football. Head Coach Mark Barnes believes once schools see McKnight play this season, his offer sheet will increase substantially. This is just a case of being aware of a prospect early, making an evaluation and extending an early offer. Remember last summer when Moe Brown committed to USC after summer camp? Clemson internet sites bashed Brown and called him a "reach". They claimed that USC was desparate to get in-state players and were taking players Clemson would never offer. Well, I think after the shrine bowl last year, everyone knew who Moe Brown was. Tennessee pursued him right up until signing day. McKnight is this year's version of Moe Brown. You have to be happy about a kid that comes to football camp and your coaches get to interact with that player to find out his character, measure his vitals, and really evaluate the player by putting him through the same fundamental drills that all your players have to master. I saw McKnight at prospect camp, and he stands on his own merit. He's tall, lean and exteremely quick. He is a red-shirt prospect, but two years from now, McKnight could be 6'5 270 pounds and playing opposite Robertson just like he does now.

Cockfather, why do the Clemson internet sites go overboard talking about how inferior USC's program is? They say they are not obsessed with USC because they have dominated the series 63-36-4, yet they are always throwing out those numbers and trashing USC. Why can't they just focus on their program and their ACC rivals?
-Lowell in Columbia

Cockfather Illustrated- Lowell, It is a fact that Clemson leads the series 63-36-4. But Clemson's program is not as far ahead of USC's as they would like for you to think. Since 2000, Clemson has entered the USC game with more than 7 wins once. That is all. Most years, Tommy Bowden has enterd that game 5-5 or 6-4 fighting to save his job. Yes, Bowden does own a 6-1 record against USC, but most of those wins have been close, hard fought victories. In 1999, 2000, 2002, and last season, the game was a toss-up. It could have gone either way. When USC won in 2001, the same was true. It was a close game. Only in 2003 and 2004, at the end of the Lou Holtz era, when Holtz had clearly lost all discipline and contol of his program did Clemson decisively defeat Carolina. The fact is that Clemson is a mid-level program that has consistently won 6 or 7 games a year in the seven seasons Bowden has been their coach. They are not Miami, Oklahoma, Southern Cal, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia Tech, FSU, or Florida. They are not even Georgia Tech. Georgia Tech has basically owned Clemson over the past decade and been to nine consecutive bowl games. Clemson is just like USC, a program striving to get up there with the big boys.

If you listened to the Clemson websites you wouldn't believe that since 2000 USC had won back-to-back Ouback Bowl Championships, qualified for a bowl game 4 of the 6 years and beaten teams like Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Ohio State, and Clemson. Let me also point out that since 2000 USC has NOT lost to Vaanderbilt or Kentucky. Clemson cannot say the same about ACC bottom dwellers Duke and Wake Forest. Both programs are similar in many respects. Clemson does have the edge from a talent perspective because of Holtz's poor recruiting classes. Coach Spurrier and his staff have recruited well and there is no reason to think that Clemson's dominance will continue. Carolina now has the best head football coach in SEC history outside of a guy named Bryant. Steve Spurrier and staff will succeed in Columbia. Clemson may hold the edge in talent now, but USC can and will close the talent gap. Spurrier is such a superior coach that he will win when the talent is close. We saw that last season with victories over Tennessee and Florida, and a near victory over Georgia. I think most Clemson fans would have to honestly admit that Clemson was very fortunate to have won the game last year.

Dear Cockfather, Coach Spurrier was really convincing when he said the team would be better this year on defense. is this really possible?
Ty in Irmo.

Cockfather Illustrated- Ty, that is certainly the $64,000.00 question entering the season. I have to beleive the offense will be much improved because it is the second year in the system, and Coach Spurrier will have more weapons in his arsenal. Defensively, there are a lot of unknowns that will have to step up if USC's defense is to be respectable. In looking unit by unit, here is my breakdown:

I think the defensive line will be a little bit better. Junior defensive tackle Marque Hall is poised to have a breakout seasson and live up to his prep all-america expectations. Stanley Doughty has lost 15-20 pounds, which has to make him a quicker, more effective player. Nathan Pepper is 285 pounds and is listed ahead of Doughty going into fall camp. Could he be this year's Chris Tucker? USC has not had a defensive tackle with the size of newcomer Kenrick Ellis in my memory. The 6'5 335 pound freshman will probably play 10-15 snaps per game this fall. At defensive end, I think USC will be just as good if not a little bit better. Jordin Lindsey has gained 15 pounds of muscle, which puts him at over 250 pounds. JC transfer Capser Brinkley, 6'3 250 will fit right in at the other end. Ryan Brown will be this years version of Orus Lambert.

At linebacker, USC will be inexperienced, but faster, more athletic, and more talented. JC transfer Jasper Brinkley was a stud in the spring. He is a typical SEC MLB. OLB Marvin Sapp will be a solid, if not a very good player this season. He is in the mold of many of the undersized LB's that schools like Clemson have used very effectively. Dakoda Walker and Gerrod Sinclair will battle it out for the WLB spot, and both should play significant snaps. So, in the final analysis, I believe USC will more efficeient at LB.

In the secondary, USC must replace Jonathan Joseph and Ko Simpson. Carlos Thomas should fill in nicely at CB. Let's face it, Joseph didn't play like a first rounder last year. Ko Simpson did however, and will be sorely missed. I like both Chris Hampton and Brandon Issac, but neither have the play-making ability of Simpson. USC will have to rely more on the front seven to make plays than rely on Simpson to make game saving tackles.

I do think it is possible for USC to be better on defense, but until we see how these inexperienced athletes perform under pressure, the jury is still out. I do believe the scheme will be more fundamentally sound, that USC's defensive unit will be better coached at every position than they were last year due to the changes coach Spurrier made in coaching responsibilities.

Dear Cockfather, How many commitments do you think USC will have prior to the start of the season, and how many do you expect USC to sign in this class?
-David in Columbia

Cockfather Illustrated-David, USC currently has six verbal commitments, not counting 5 star CB prospect Gary Gray. I think USC could enter their season opener with as many as 10 commitments. It is just a matter of when some of the prospects USC holds big leads with can make unoffical visits to campus. USC has several top flight prospects in Florida that could commit at anytime, but they would prefer to wait until they can get up to Columbia and visit campus. Prospects such as Dion Lecorn, Antonio Allen, Jamire Williams, and Matt Clements immediately come to mind. Other prospects that could commit include DE Cortez Myles, FS Arkee Smith, DE Carlos Dunlap, and QB Stephen Garcia.

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