South Carolina had four official visits for the Missouri weekend from prospects committed to other programs. So far, the Gamecocks are 0-2 in mind changing. Monday OC Jimmy Bryson and OT Kevin Peay both said they were sticking with their commitments to Georgia Tech.
The other two visitors are still sorting through things though they remain committed to the other schools. Hammond TE Mike Tyler has been a LSU commitment and ne told Lou Bezjak of The State he might visit Baton Rouge again this coming weekend. He won’t announce a final decision until Signing Day on December 4th.
CB Michael Clayton (6-1 180) of Warner Robins, GA has been committed to Rutgers since early June. His visit for the Missouri game, however, was his second visit of the season to USC, so the Gamecocks are definitely weighing on his mind, especially after what he experienced this past weekend.
“It gave me a lot to think about. It gave me a broader view of South Carolina, but I am still committed to Rutgers,” Clayton said. “I’ve still got a lot to think about. I still haven’t made a decision. Hopefully a couple of days before Signing day (I’ll have a decision).”
Clayton witnessed the Gamecocks rally in the final seconds to pull off a crucial SEC victory over the Tigers. When Rocket Sanders scored the winning touchdown with fifteen seconds left, according to USC the crowd reaction set off an earthquake warning at Williams-Brice Stadium.
“I mean it was great, it was a great game,” Clayton said. “I loved the atmosphere and the crowd. Just the whole experience, it was good to be able to be around the players and the coaches and the staff and get an in-depth view of what South Carolina is about.’
Clayton watched closely how the Gamecock secondary played, and also how secondary coach Torrian Gray maneuvered his guys around in the defensive backfield.
“I noticed that they are very good at what they do,” Clayton said. “Of course, there were a couple of plays when they got beat over the top, but they are very physical with their play and always in position. And all of the DBs are versatile. They can have a corner playing safety and nickel all in one game.”
Clayton said he hung out with his two close friends on the team, Jalon and Gerald Kilgore. They all grew up together, ran track together and their parents are friends. He also got some He also got some quality time with USC head coach Shane Beamer.
“He was just explaining to me how family oriented the team is and how they all play together,” Clayton said. “He was explaining that it is a lot of hard work and dedication, but at the end of the day they are a family. The togetherness of the team to one goal is what gives them the success that they’ve had.”
Clayton has completed his senior season. He finished with 42 total tackles with 34 solo hits. He also blocked two field goals, one punt and forced one fumble, and he scored three touchdowns.