The Gamecocks landed a big addition to their 2024 recruiting class on Tuesday with a verbal commitment from Michael Smith. The four-star prospect out of Georgia’s Calvary Day is a big play machine and an ideal fit for head coach Shane Beamer’s offense.

WHAT MAKES SMITH DIFFERENT

Smith is a gifted athlete with wide receiver body coordination inside the frame of a tight end. Contorting, high pointing, and laying out for seemingly impossible grabs are within the wheel house of Smith’s abilities. Smith is not a burner but has good footspeed able to take safeties deep and extend the chase after the reception.

WHY THIS IS BIG FOR SOUTH CAROLINA

The versatility of Smith is a difference maker. Playing for the Cavaliers, Smith lines up tight with a hand in the ground and they also split him out as an inside receiver. Moving Smith around within the offensive scheme to create mismatches against SEC defenses will not be a new thing for him once on campus.

Listed at 6-foot, 5-inches, weighing in at 230 pounds, he has the frame to add more weight which will be a tremendous benefit as an extra blocker against SEC East defenses in the trenches. The Gamecocks are getting a two-in-one kind of player that will help win games in the years to come.

NOTES FROM THE STAT SHEET

Smith’s junior campaign was explosive. He was credited with 24 receptions covering 788 yards with 13 touchdowns.