All it took was one visit to Chapel Hill.

Allen Smith and some of his family took a visit to the University of North Carolina Friday, and before he left to head back home, the talented linebacker out of Loganville (Ga.) Grayson committed to the Tar Heels.

"I was sitting with coach [Robert] Gillespie and we talking about North Carolina and me setting up an official visit with them, then I told him I wanted to commit," said Smith. "He was excited about it, so we went to see coach Larry Fedora and told him — he was very excited too. Coach [Mike] Ekeler was also excited when he found out."

North Carolina beat out Louisville, Nebraska, Oregon and Penn State for Smith. Since offering in January, the Tar Heel staff has been as consistent as anyone in their communication with Smith, so he knew he was wanted, and once he stepped on campus, it was over.

"I was debating on when I wanted to make my decision, so I was not really planning on making it Friday, but as soon as I got to North Carolina, my mind was made up.

"During my visit, I saw it all and it was great. I got the campus tour, I took the academic tour, I saw the locker room, I put the uniform and I really liked it all.

"I really felt at home."

Smith knew he had high interest in North Carolina, but the visit took it to another level.

"The way I felt really did surprise me," said Smith. "The academics, the football side of things and how the coaches interacted with me really surprised me.

"I learned about the academic support, I got to know the coaches well and it is more than just about football there. There is a brotherhood and I like that a lot.

"I definitely was surprised, but I feel great about my commitment."

The North Carolina staff and fans will love what Smith had to say when asked about the strength of his commitment — he said, "I am completely shutting things down. I am committed to North Carolina."

Smith checked in a 6-feet, 2-inches and 209 pounds during his visit Friday.