USC took a step toward improving their receiving corps for 2022 with a public commitment Tuesday night from WR Zavier Short (6-1 181) of Chapin. Short had been committed to Appalachian State, but USC coach Shane Beamer offered in person a visit to the school on December 1st, and that put the wheels in motion for Short to join the Gamecocks.
Short said recently the idea of playing just a few miles from his home was critical in his final decision.
“I used to live in West Virginia and Marshall was the hometown team,” Short said. “Ever since I moved here, I’ve been a Carolina fan. Ever since I sold myself on playing at the next level, I’ve been working towards it. I think it’s a great opportunity for me to get on the field early. I won’t have to wait behind a bunch of guys because there aren’t many people doing what they want me to do. And all the coaches and everything, it’s a great place.”
Short is a highly versatile player who can be used at wide out, in the slot or as an H-back. Beamer and receivers coach Justin Stepp saw Short in camp this season, and he likes that Beamer plans to move him around.
““He first asked me what I think I could do at the next level and what I plan on playing,” Short said. “I told him slot receiver and he agreed with me. He said they want to try to use me like Swiss army knife, just do what I can do and whatever can help the team.”
This season Short caught 67 passes for 1038 yards and 14 touchdowns. For his career he had 217 receptions for 3391 yards. With the commitment from Short, the Gamecocks now have 25 spots in their 2022 class accounted for with 21 commitments and four transfers that count in the class.
4 transfers?? So Prunty is back to being a counter now??