OL Young names a leader

Union, S.C. offensive tackle Eric Young has narrowed his list down to four lucky programs and he has officially named a leader.

"I think it's down to South Carolina, Clemson, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Georgia could still sneak in, but they are way behind the others. I would say South Carolina is my leader right now. I like them a lot and I'm most familiar with them."

Young is focusing on his game with Union and the official visits he has scheduled.

"I'm through taking my unofficial visits for this year. We are playing in the state championship game this week and I'm really focused on that. We are playing Camden again this year. We lost to them last year in overtime and I want to win it this year. I have three scheduled official visits so far -- North Carolina on Jan. 10, South Carolina on Jan. 17 and Clemson on Jan. 24.”

Tennessee will likely be on Jan. 31 and then a decision comes.

"I don't think I will make a decision until Signing Day. I'm not in a rush to decide and I just want to make sure I make the right decision. I'm really busy right now. I've got the state championship this week and next week I'm going to the Shrine Bowl. After that I'm going to spend the holidays with my family and then I'll be taking my visits. I'll talk it over with my family after that and then decide, but I won't announce until Signing Day."

Young knows what he wants in a school.

"I want a place with good academics and a solid athletic program. It doesn't matter about their record or how many players they put in the NFL. I just want to go to the place where I fit in best."

Right now that place looks to be South Carolina. The Gamecocks have long been considered the favorite to land the big guy and he has been a lifelong fan. He has formed a good relationship with Skip Holtz and the Gamecocks will be tough to beat.

Photo from SCVarsity.com