Barnes makes his decision

Charlotte (N.C.) Independence wide receiver Jason Barnes concluded his recruitment yesterday. The 6-foot-4, 197-pounder was deciding between North Carolina and South Carolina. Who did he choose?

"I talked to coach Chatham yesterday and committed to South Carolina," he stated. "He told me everybody there was happy to hear the news and glad I finally made a decision. He said they were waiting for it for a long time and now can't wait for me to get up there and play for them."

In the end, a few factors swung in favor of the Gamecocks.

"I decided on them because of the fact that Steve Spurrier is an offensive coach," he said. "He has a good package there and I know they are losing a lot of receivers. I think I've got a great chance to come in and play early. There will be four other receivers to compete with, but if I beat them out I'll be on the field. I hope Sidney Rice stays because I think I can learn a lot from him before he goes to the NFL.

"I also really like the fans and crowd there. They are the best fans around and love their team. I want a chance to experience 80,000-plus fans every week."

Fred Chatham was the three-star prospect's recruiter and he was a big factor too.

"He has a lot of enthusiasm for the program," he said. "I also was able to talk to him all the time. He'd always stop by my school, go to my games and was just a great recruiting coordinator."

Barnes had a final note to say to the Gamecock fans.

"Tell the fans I'm coming and plan to make an impact and score a lot of touchdowns for them."