Clemson out of the running for Dakereon Joyner, which is huge news for South Carolina

A few days ago, we got a little bit of news from the Dakereon Joyner camp.

Joyner, one of the state of South Carolina’s top recruits in the class of 2018, wants to be a quarterback in college. It’s his primary position and the one where he’s made the most impact. But with Clemson wanting him to play a different position, and with the commitment of highly-touted junior quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the Tigers are now out of the running.

That’s big news for the Gamecocks, who likely project to be a leader for Joyner’s services. The 247 Crystal Ball now sits at 78% for South Carolina, with Clemson dropping to 22%. The two teams were showing at dead even a few weeks back.

South Carolina, N.C. State and Louisville are Joyner’s top three at this point in time. But barring a late charge by the latter two teams before his June decision date, I’d say that the Gamecocks are well out in front to gain his services. Louisville is certainly in a better position than the Gamecocks as far as the on-field product is concerned, but it was expected to be a two-horse race between South Carolina and Clemson. Now that Clemson is out of the picture, it’s all but a lock at this point where Dakereon Joyner will be suiting up at quarterback in 2018.

Butler prepping for tomorrow’s announcement

Garner (N.C.) DE Matthew Butler has been a big time Gamecocks target. Tomorrow, he will shut down his recruitment as he is set to announce his decision at 2pm at his high school auditorium. The Gamecocks would love to have another name in the fold with the departure of Qua Lewis after this season - they currently have MJ Webb and Tyreek Johnson locked up at the end position. However, with Tennessee appearing to have the inside track for Butler’s commitment, that may open up more of a full-court press to get Javon Kinlaw (who is officially visiting on January 28) back in the class. If the Gamecocks do land Butler, I’d expect them to relax their approach for Kinlaw.

Lattimore gives birthday shoutout to Xavier Thomas

Xavier Thomas is celebrating his 17th birthday today. He got a nice little message from a Gamecock great.

Not a bad message to wake up to, right?