USC and UGA Battling For Strong Safety

Former Blackville-Hilda (S.C.) star Brandon Isaac was a S.C. Shrine Bowl selection in 2002, following a senior season in which he rushed for over 1,000 yards, passed for over 500 and accounted for 20 total touchdowns. Because of his academics, he was lightly recruited, so he signed with Georgia Military Academy.

As a freshman last season in Milledgeville, Isaac earned a starting spot in the defensive backfield and recorded six interceptions from his strong safety spot. His play on the field and his improved academics have helped him garner attention from several top schools.

"My main four schools right now are South Carolina, Georgia, Louisville and East Carolina," the 6-foot-2, 185-pound Isaac said. "I know I have offers from South Carolina and Georgia because I talked to coaches from both schools back in May and they told me I did. My coaches are handling all of my mail, so I'm not sure if Louisville or East Carolina or anyone else has offered me."

Right now, it seems Isaac is focused on the Gamecocks and the Bulldogs.

"Really, it's between South Carolina and Georgia," he said. "Georgia's coaches said they expect Thomas Davis to turn pro after this season, so they're looking for someone to come in right away and replace him. They've got a great program, so that sounds good.

"Then South Carolina is like home to me," Isaac said. "They've put a lot of guys from their secondary into the NFL and they've got a nice program."

As for what he's looking for in a school, Isaac, who has been timed as low as 4.3 in the 40-yard-dash, has three things in mind.

"I'm looking for an opportunity for playing time, good academics and a place where I can fit in and be comfortable," he said.

Isaac, who projects as a potential December 2004 graduate, says things are dead even between his two primary schools.

"Really, it's a dead heat between South Carolina and Georgia," he said. "I will take my official visits after the season and then make a decision after that, especially if I can graduate in December like I want to."

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