South Carolina Recruiting: Taylor Stallworth Commits to Carolina

Carolina picked up a commitment from three-star DT Taylor Stallworth (Mobile, AL/Murphy) this afternoon. Stallworth chose the Gamecocks over Arkansas, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, and N.C. State, among others.

Stallworth has this to say about his strengths: "I think I'm quick off the ball -- I get a good jump, and I've got explosive hands." At 6'2 285, Stallworth also comes with an elite frame; he's the kind of prospect who could be quite physically imposing after spending a couple of years in our weight training program.

For a bit more info on Stallworth, check out this column from al.com. Stallworth's coach confirms Carolina's impression of him as a versatile lineman who brings a rare combination of power and speed. The coach also describes Stallworth as a "model student" who will succeed in the classroom and won't get in trouble. The column includes some video from 247 Sports that illustrates Stallworth's ability to play multiple positions on the line, as well as his ability to defend effectively against both the run and pass.

Stallworth hails from my hometown, my mother's high school alma mater, in fact. I can attest that he plays at a very competitive level of football at which he's gained plenty of experience playing against many future SEC players. His talent will translate to what we need.

Stallworth claims his commitment is firm. The only thing I could imagine changing that is in-state Alabama or Auburn offering, which is certainly a possibility if he continues to impress.

Stallworth makes the eleventh commitment of this class. His pledge elevates our class to being the 26th best in the nation according to 247 Sports. Another commitment, thus, will likely bring us back our familiar spot in the top 25. Stallworth's commitment, presumably, won't affect our pursuit of other big-time DT prospects, particularly Abu Lamin, a reported Carolina lean, as well as recent Florida St. commit Dexter Wideman, who is believed to remain interested in Carolina. That said, I don't for a moment doubt our coaching staff's ability to develop a player of Stallworth's skill and drive into a solid SEC lineman. Welcome to Carolina, Taylor! Mobile folks can become happy members of the Carolina family--I can attest.