USC has made a concerted effort to recruiting the Washington, DC and northern Virginia schools, and that work is paying off with commitments and/or strong interest. For the 2023 class the Gamecocks have signed from that region DE Desmond Umeozulu, OT Oluwatosin Babalade, SAF Zabhari Sandy, and they are heavily involved with TE Nyck Harbor.
This weekend for their junior day, two of the 2024 teammates of Umeozulu from Upper Marlboro, MD, OT Mike Williams (6-7 315) and CB Braydon Lee (6-1 215) plan to be in to see the Gamecocks. Williams has not yet been offered by USC while Lee is regarded as one of the top corner prospects in the country.
Williams said he was first contacted by Sam Serbay of the USC recruiting staff, and their communications led to setting up his first visit to Columbia. He believes once the offensive line coach Lonnie Teasley checks him out in person, an offer might be forthcoming.
“They are saying I’ve got long arms, big frame, a big guy and I’ve got the physicality,” Williams said. “An offer would be a dream come true. That’s one of my dream schools. I don’t want to go too far south, play in the SEC, so why not South Carolina?”
Williams does have offers from Southern Cal, Miami and James Madison. He’s also hearing from North Carolina. He’s in no hurry with the recruiting process.
“I have a lot of faith in myself and I feel like I’m not done yet,” Williams said. “I’m thankful for all the offers that have come in right now, but I think more are coming. My recruiting is open.”
Williams said one of his next visits will be to North Carolina.
