Jamarcus King could stabilize South Carolina secondary
The South Carolina secondary has come through a rough couple years and is looking to retool. With Will Muschamp and Travaris Robinson working hands-on with the unit, it can’t hurt, and there are some new pieces. Jamarcus King, a top JUCO prospect, might step in as the man to lock down No. 1 receivers, and Rico McWilliams returns on the other side. Safety is less clear, but Chaz Elder, Jordan Diggs, D.J. Smith or even Chris Lammons could get a shot.
2016 Defensive Backs
(Listed alphabetically)
Jr. Toure Boyd (5-11, 184): He played in one game in 2015 after transferring from junior college and opened spring practice with the No. 1 unit.
Sr. Jordan Diggs (6, 211): An oft-maligned returning starter, the senior made 48 tackles last season and was always someone the coaches came back to.
Sr. Chaz Elder (6-2, 203): A fifth-year player who has bounced in and out of the lineup, he’s got good size but has never been able break into the lineup.
So. Rashad Fenton (5-11, 185): Mostly known for dynamic return skills as a freshman, he showed well enough in spring to be in the mix at corner and in the slot.
Jr. Jamarcus King (6-1, 170): After making 37 tackles, three interceptions and 10 pass breakups in 2015, he should give USC someone who can play press man.
Jr. Chris Lammons (5-10, 184): The former four-star prospect has been a part-time starter for two years and exited the spring listed as a No. 1 corner and safety.
Sr. Rico McWilliams (5-11, 179): One of the more experienced members of USC’s secondary, he will likely be fighting for a starting spot somewhere, especially if he becomes a better hitter.
Sr. Chris Moody (6-1, 215): A safety who walked on senior day and intended to transfer before returning to the squad in the spring.
Jr. Jasper Sasser (6-0, 204): Primarily a special teamer through his first two years, he got a little time early in the spring with the No. 1 unit.
Fr. Chris Smith (5-10, 168): The early enrollee from Rock Hill managed to work his way into being a second-string nickel back by the end of the spring.
Jr. D.J. Smith (5-11, 185): A fan favorite who showed flashes, but could never solidify a place in the lineup, even after an abbreviated start against Tennessee.
RFr. Antonie Wilder (5-10, 187): After missing much of his senior season in high school, he redshirted and battled a right knee strain.
Lettermen Lost
T.J. Gurley
Al Harris Jr.
Isaiah Johnson
Preseason Depth Chart
CB – Rico Mcwilliams
Rashad Fenton
S – Chaz Elder
Chris Moody
S – Chris Lammons
D.J. Smith
CB – Chris Lammons
Chris Smith
NICK – Rashad Fenton
Antonie Wilder
This story was originally published July 26, 2016 at 6:18 PM with the headline "Jamarcus King could stabilize South Carolina secondary."