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Defensive back Ronnie Martin (5-10 175) of Spartanburg announced a commitment to South Carolina on Wednesday, picking the Gamecocks over LSU.
He also had offers from Nebraska, Illinois, Colorado and Maryland. He is the Gamecocks' first in-state pledge for the class of 2011 and the 12th overall.
"They saw a good football player," said his coach Freddie Brown. "He can help immediately in the kickoff game. He ran a 4.3 this summer. He can turn it over pretty good. He's a really good cover corner. He went down there and felt at home."
Martin made an unofficial visit to USC late last week and that basically sealed the decision for him.
"It's a great place to be," Martin said after that visit. "I like they way they treat you. They're straightforward."
Martin had 44 tackles with 1 interception last season. He also excels in the return game, where he had 930 yards and 4 touchdowns last season.
"He is rangy and has great hips," Brown said of Martin. "He has good ball skills and is physical. He has great closing speed."
Martin earned All-State honors last season. He's considered one of the state's fastest players and has run a 10.6 in the 100 meters.
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