Lemieux raves about SEC trip

Shane Lemieux still has two on the top and a big decision to make. It could be even more difficult after visiting one of his favorites in recent days and being blown away by the experience.

The offensive tackle from Yakima (Wash.) West Valley has Oregon and South Carolina as his two favorites and he said after visiting with the Gamecocks they might even hold a slight edge in his recruitment moving forward.

"It was great," Lemieux said.

"Coach (Shawn) Elliott and I already have a relationship but it's only getting better. I talked to coach (Steve) Spurrier, I talked to all the guys. I could really see myself playing there. I feel like I fit in. I feel like Oregon and South Carolina are definitely tied and maybe South Carolina passed them a little bit.

"They really did a fantastic job. They exceeded my expectations with the academic side, the football side and Columbia is definitely all about football."

Going to South Carolina would not be a major stretch for Lemieux, a 6-foot-6, 280-pound prospect, since his father lives in Lancaster, S.C. Staying closer to home and going to Oregon is also a serious consideration and the Ducks are definitely right there in the mix.

The Yakima West Valley standout also visited N.C. State on his East Coast trip and was offered there. Although they aren't in his top two, Lemieux said the Wolfpack cannot be counted out, either.

"I really liked the atmosphere and the new coaching staff and how they treat every player like family," Lemieux said. "It's definitely an option to consider. They offered me a scholarship. I talked to a couple of players and they really love the atmosphere.

"They really love the fans and the coaches and how much they care about you. I really loved the offensive line coach. He's a great guy. The head coach had a board and you get penalties for missed classes, kind of like an accountability chart and that was a cool thing."

So far, Lemieux has been offered by Arizona State, Boise State, Cal, East Carolina, Georgia State, Idaho, Miami, NC State, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah and Washington State.