Monday News and Notes: Ronald Patrick Commits and More

The biggest news for today is that we signed Cocoa, FL offensive lineman Ronald Patrick. Per Gamecock Anthem,

Patrick chose the Gamecocks over offers from ECU, Western Kentucky, New Mexico and Middle Tennessee State. He was also receiving interest from Michigan State, Purdue and Tennessee.

So, while Patrick had yet to receive offers from big-time programs, it appears he may have been on the road to having done so. Hopefully, we've managed to pick up a sleeper before anyone else got to him. There are some questions about Patrick's height (he's 6'1), but he's a powerful blocker. He also seems to have his heart in the right place, claiming that

"I wanted to help do something special. That's basically what it is."

Welcome aboard. The fact that some of these players aren't highly rated gives a little pause, but most of them seem to be high-potential guys, so I'll take the coaches at their words. It's also worth noting that it's still early in the process. Many of these guys will be reevaluated later and will receive more stars in the process.

A few other tidbits:

• Stoney Woodson signs with Giants. Woodson's deal is worth 1.8 million over four years. Congrats, Stoney!
  
• The ACC & SEC Blog tells us the 10 most pressing questions in this year's SEC. This column is definitely worth a look, although I honestly doubt that we'll see anyone other than Stephen Garcia start this year. If Garcia absolutely stinks (unlikely, I think), anything is possible, but if his play is at least average, I just don't think we have anyone that's ready to come in and do better.