Longtime USC pledge backs off commitment to Gamecocks

Covington, Ga., offensive lineman Lamarius Benson announced Thursday that he is no longer committed to South Carolina.

Benson committed to the Gamecocks in March, but his decision to depart from the class wasn’t unexpected.

He took an official visit to UCF last weekend. Recruiting writers and experts believe he’ll sign with the Golden Knights next week as part of National Signing Day.

He took an official visit to USC the week prior to his UCF trip. Benson recently said USC coaches told him they wanted him in the class even as they expressed concern over his weight (315 pounds).

His departure leaves the Gamecocks with 21 commitments. If the 21 total holds, there’s room for two more additions ahead of next Wednesday’s National Signing Day.

USC can sign a max of 25, but transfer running back Ty’Son Williams and Class of 2017 grayshirt Tyreek Johnson will both have their scholarships count toward this cycle.

This story was originally published February 1, 2018 at 9:39 AM with the headline "Longtime USC pledge backs off commitment to Gamecocks."