LB target Kash Daniel expedites decision timeline

Linebacker Kash Daniel of Paintsville, Ky., had set Aug. 13 for his commitment date, but he decided on Sunday there was no reason to wait that long.

Daniel set July 4 for his announcement. He has been working with a top four of South Carolina, Kentucky, Louisville and Florida. He was at USC on Saturday for the Showcase camp.

“I’ve talked to Coach Botkin and Coach Spurrier Jr. and we’ve got a real good connection,” Daniel said. “Finally getting to get down here and seeing what the Gamecocks have to offer, I am really impressed.”

Daniel is getting the hard sell from Kentucky and Louisville fans around him to stay home. That has to be tempting for an instate football hero, but Daniel said leaving the state is something he will do if it’s the best move for him.

“It would be tough,” he admitted. “For every one it would be tough, even if you’re not a student-athlete. But at the same time, you’re looking at a point where I’m going here because it’s the best opportunity for me as a football player and as a student. I might get a little homesick, but my parents would get to come down every Saturday so it won’t be that bad.”

Daniel said all four schools are even with him at this point.

“Everybody is on a level playing field,” Daniel said. “My decision is where I feel at home and where I feel like I can strive to be my best academically and as a football player.”

Daniel has also been to Kentucky and will go to Florida this week. He said he will also visit Louisville if he can work it out in his schedule.