Matthews Commit Comes at Great Time

First-hand evaluation of the Gamecocks newest commitment by analyst Len Fulmer.

Len Fulmer is a recruiting analyst for GamecockAnthem.com. His in-person evaluations of upcoming players help give us first person insight into the prospects USC is evaluating. A former Shrine Bowl linebacker himself, Fulmer brings a player’s eye to each game, and we are pleased to share what he sees with you. This is his first article.

The announcement by Cliff Matthews Wednesday to wear the Garnet and Black came as a surprise. I am a huge fan of this young man, and I have seen him play personally three times this season. Cliff has a HUGE upside, and the talented pass rusher is already 6’5 and weighs nearly 230 pounds now with solid 4.5 speed.

He is very hard to block because his arms are extremely long, and it is difficult to get ‘inside’ on him. He is very quick off the corner and will grow to be at least 260 pounds in the next year or so. He also plays tight end and has surprisingly soft hands for a player his size. Matthews’s commitment is yet another piece of the puzzle that the Gamecocks needed, and I am happy Coach Steve Spurrier took it upon himself to recruit this kid.

Matthews will be one of those kids that will be talked about on this board for years to come, and along with Travian Robertson on the other side, gives the Gamecocks two solid “bookends” to terrorize opposing offenses for years to come.

Welcome aboard Mr. Matthews and thank you for joining the Carolina family. I look forward to following your career and your progression here, and thank you for giving us the boost we needed. I can now enjoy my weekend.