Some of you might remember that I mentioned I wouldn't be watching most (if any) of the CFB due to a New Year's Eve wedding. I was able to see the Lattimore Dismantling and all of the fourth quarter. While it wasn't a good night for Carolina, there was a silver lining for me that came from a chance meeting that occurred a few hours after.

This was possible because the wedding and reception took place at the Marriott in Charleston, SC. It just so happened that the NUC All-World Gridiron Classic took place earlier that evening, and there was a large reception for the players at the same hotel. So amidst all us buttoned-up wedding partiers, large young men were roaming the halls as well.

I was wandering towards the lobby for some reason or another when I stumbled across a little group of recruits waiting for airport taxis to arrive. I spotted one decked out in Carolina regalia. Turns out it was Kadetrix Marcus, future Carolina DB. We chatted for a brief moment--I mentioned how welcome his services will be based on our secondary play this year. Nice guy, although our exchange was brief and he was obviously exhausted--fighting to keep his eyes open. He pointed out another future Gamecock in the group. Turns out it was none other than Damiere Byrd. I didn't place his name immediately (I'd had a few as you might imagine) so I asked him where he was from and what position he played. When he said New Jersey and wide receiver, I responded "Oh, you're the fast guy!" to which he matter-of-factly said "Yeah!"

Damiere and I chatted for a minute or so, and I gotta tell you, what an impressive kid. Well spoken and polite (he even wished me a happy new year when he left), made eye contact, seemed very intelligent--he stood out as humble and together compared to the other recruits, most of whom were strutting around like royalty. Also impressive was the piece of hardware he was toting--I think it was the game's MVP trophy. I will say he's about my height--I'm 5'9" on a good day. So while he won't be another Alshon or Tori in that department (which we all knew), he's certainly capable of playing high quality football.

If nothing else, it gave me a vague indication of the kind of player he'll be. I doubt we'll have to worry about him off the field. And while I didn't get the opportunity to chat with Kadetrix at length, he has a firm handshake. That's good for something, right? Best of luck to both of them in school and on the field.

There was one more recruit at the game apparently, but I'm not sure who it was. Any help there?