Palmetto WR a prospect to watch in 2007

Columbia (S.C.) Richland Northeast wide receiver Mark Barnes could be the top prospect in the Palmetto State for the class of 2007, which figures to be an unusually deep year in the state.

The tight lipped Barnes has already picked up offers from Clemson, Kentucky, South Carolina, Wake Forest and NC State even though he is just a junior. He briefly talked about the hometown Gamecocks.

"I like the coaching staff," Barnes said, specifically mentioning recruiting coordinator Rick Stockstill (one of Rivals.com's top 25 recruiters in 2005) and Gamecock wide receivers coach Steve Spurrier, Jr. "I also like the facilities. The new weight room makes me want to get in there and work out, which is what you need to do to get better."

As a sophomore, Barnes recorded 75 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 10 pass break-ups on defense and 21 receptions for over 400 yards and 4 touchdowns offense. He blocked 2 punts and a field goal on special teams.

Barnes also had some things to say about the Duke Blue Devils. He participated in a camp at Wake Forest over the summer and stopped by to check out Duke.

"I like the Duke coaching staff, too," Barnes said

He also went on to mention that he had interest in LSU and Auburn as well. The 6-foot-3, 190-pound Barnes could be the top overall prospect in the Palmetto State for the class of 2007.