USC Wednesday added another piece to its defense with the signing of CB La’Dareyen Craig (6-2 180) of Mobile, AL. Craig chose the Gamecocks over Mississippi State. Craig’s recruiting did not take off until January, and then the Gamecocks, Bulldogs, Oregon State and Southern Miss all became involved.
But at the end, when making his decision, Craig said he just went with the feeling he was getting from Shane Beamer and the new Gamecock staff.
“I love them,” Craig said. “They seem really genuine.”
“He’s very fast,” Baker High coach Steve Normand said. “Not only does he play football, he’s also a hurdler. If he didn’t win the state championship, he was in the top three as far as his speed. His speed is phenomenal. He’s a true 4.3, 4.4 guy. He’s very long. That’s probably the most upside thing about the kid is him being 6-2, but he has a very long wingspan. He has a great reach. His feet are really good. His ball skills are great. He has a lot of potential to be a really good corner.”
New Gamecocks secondary coach Torrian Gray was heavily involved in Craig’s recruitment. He’s given him a simple break down of what he likes about him.
“My size, my speed and my physicality,” said Craig who had 7 interceptions and broke up 16 other passes last season.
Craig gives the Gamecocks four cornerbacks in the class as they seek to restock that area of the team after losing most of their starting secondary from last season.
