Gamecocks cap 2018 class with four-star Rick Sandidge

Perceived long-time South Carolina lean Rick Sandidge made Will Muschamp happy on National Signing Day Wednesday when the four-star defensive tackle committed to the Gamecocks, who effectively staved off a substantial push from Georgia.

The Concord (N.C.) standout announced his decision among friends and family in the school's auditorium.

Ranked the No. 2 defensive tackle in the country, Sandidge has been a two-year top priority for Muschamp and area recruiter Bobby Bentley, who battled off Sandidge's connection with Georgia defensive line coach Tray Scott and the in-state pull of North Carolina to earn his commitment.

It was primarily those three programs that went the distance in Sandidge's recruitment, though the nation's No. 45 overall prospect also held offers from schools like Alabama, Florida, FSU, LSU, Miami and Michigan, among others.

Sandidge whittled his list down and then took official visits to all three schools in January.

An unofficial pare down to South Carolina and Georgia left the Sandidge family hosting both schools in their home last week.

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, Scott and Director of Player Development Jonas Jennings helicoptered in and made the Bulldogs' final pitch last Wednesday over chili and BBQ chicken.

South Carolina -- who landed both the final official and in-home visits -- countered on Saturday when Muschamp, Bentley, defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson, defensive line coach Lance Thompson and outside linebackers coach Mike Peterson joined to answer final questions and enjoy hot dogs, baked beans and macaroni and cheese.

Sandidge met with his family, debating the pros and cons of the programs in the following days, ultimately siding on Monday with South Carolina, where his mother Keshia Valentine-Sandidge also went to school.

Sandidge is the 22nd member of South Carolina's 2018 class and the fourth defensive line prospect.