USC has three more spots to fill in the 2021 class and with the February National Signing Day coming up Wednesday, the Gamecocks are focused primarily on the defensive side with defensive backs, linebackers and a defensive end still on the board. One of their secondary targets is La’Dareyen Craig (6-2 180) of Mobile, AL. In the last week or so he has picked up offers from the Gamecocks, Mississippi State and Oregon State. He’s trying to make a decision from those three according to his coach.
“He’s got the big three right now and I’ve asked him several times what are you leaning towards, how do you feel, what’s your gut telling you to do,” coach Steve Normand said. “He’s really indecisive about it right now. He’s really just up in the air. He told me he’s going to commit before Signing Day. So, before Wednesday we should know.”
New Gamecocks’ secondary coach Torrian Gray has been on Craig ever since he got to USC, and he seems to be making good progress in convincing him to join him in Columbia. Normand said Craig is very interested in he Gamecocks.
“His interest level is very high to tell you the truth,” Normand said. “I think he’s kind of leaning in that direction right now. That and Mississippi State I think are the ones. Oregon State came in yesterday, and even though it’s a great school and a great offer, that’s just a long way from home for him. Family is important to him. Close proximity is huge for them to watch him play. That’s a huge factor for him.”
Normand said Craig also is a standout track athlete and is one of the best hurdlers in in the state. He’s turned in 40 times in the 4.3-4.4 range. Recruiters also like his length and long arms. This past season Craig had 41 tackles with 9 passes broken up and 3 interceptions.
