Gamecocks' staff primary reason for Bryce Thompson's decision

Irmo (South Carolina) Dutch Fork athlete Bryce Thompson announced a pledge on Wednesday afternoon, giving the Gamecocks a commitment from one of the Southeast's top playmakers.

"It's the coaching staff," Thompson said is the primary reason for his South Carolina commitment. "I feel like they have one of the best coaching staffs in the country. When it comes to T-Rob, his resume says it all. I want to go to the league and I think that's going to be the best route for me."

The 6-foot, 185-pounder could play defensive back or wide receiver for the Gamecocks at the college level, but T-Rob - defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson - has long wanted Thompson in his defensive backfield.

Will Muschamp and Robinson have a reputation for developing players in the secondary, something Thompson has known for some time.

"I kind of knew the information before, because I followed them when they were at Florida," Thompson said.

As he works to continue completing his academic requirements during his senior season, he'll wait until February 2018 to sign a letter of intent with USC.

The three-star prospect, a Shrine Bowl selection that could well earn a rankings bump in January, was formerly committed to Virginia Tech before backing off the pledge a few months ago.

The Silver Foxes' do-it-all star rushed for two touchdowns and collected 186 all-purpose yards as Dutch Fork defeated Dorman 28-27 to win the class 5-A state title two weeks ago at Williams-Brice Stadium.