DE Cliff Matthews (6-5 230) of Cheraw committed Wednesday to USC capping a complete turn around for the Gamecocks in this recruiting battle which saw them go from first to third and now back to first.
Matthews said, "I felt in my heart it was the best place for me. Coach Spurrier and I have a real tight relationship. Coach Spurrier told me that they were one defensive end from winning that game (against Auburn)."
Matthews had previously been heavily favoring the Georgia Bulldogs. When asked what changed his mind, he said, "I really swung Carolina's way when I went to the Carolina-Auburn game. The atmosphere was unbelievable, how loud the fans are, and the players get after it on the field."
Matthews had also been considering Clemson, but the premiere pass rushing specialist is firm in his commitment to the Gamecocks. He said, "My official visit (to South Carolina) will be to the Arkansas game. I will not I will not take any other visits, and I am firmly committed to South Carolina."
Matthews also had a shout out to the Carolina faithful that played an important factor in his decision to become a Gamecock: "You were the loudest crowd I have ever been to in my life. You definitely had an impact on my decision."
Blake's notes:
This is a huge accomplishment for the Carolina coaching staff. To beat out Clemson and UGA for a big recruit like this.. is HUGE. Cliff is 6' 5" 235 lbs. (with plenty of room for more weight). He is also the 3rd best weak-side DE in the nation and a 4 star recruit according to rivals.com.
Wonderful pickup for the Gamecocks.. and a complete shocker!!!
Bonus: Cliff is pictured above (#83) along with future Gamecock commit Carlos Dunlap (#8). Carlos is 6' 6" 240 lbs., the 13th best strong-side DE in the nation and a 4 star (he will likely grow into a DT at the next level).. He is favoring the Gamecocks heavily per reliable sources! It's turning out to be a great class for Carolina.. especially on the D-line!!
Oh by the way... Gary who?????
