A week ago, OT Jatavius Shivers (6-7 270) of Villa Rica, GA committed to Vanderbilt after coming off an official visit with the Commodores. But he did not shut down his recruiting, and Saturday saw him back in Columbia on an unofficial visit with the Gamecocks for their Carolina Cookout.
It was his third visit to USC since the spring when he landed an offer from offensive line coach Greg Adins.
“I liked it up there. It was genuine,” Shivers said. “I felt very welcomed, and I had a good time. I went there and had a good time and met with the coaches, in particular Coach Adkins.”
Shivers was joined on the visit by his parents, and they had a chance to visit for a few minutes with head coach Shane Beamer as well.
“It went good. It was pretty short and casual,” Shivers said of the conversation. “There wasn’t really a message, just socializing.”
Shivers said for the barbeque, a series of food trucks was on display, and he ate his fair share.
Prior to his commitment, Shivers had the Gamecocks in his top five along with Vandy, Florida State, Georgia Tech and Ole Miss. This most recent visit keeps the Gamecocks in the hunt and in line for an official visit during the season.
“They are still up there, it moved them up a little bit,” Shivers said. “I’m Still committed to Vanderbilt, but I will take some other visits.” He has not yet scheduled any more visits for July or when the season begins.
