South Carolina has message for FSU tailback commitment that Noles can’t match

Speedy running back Amari Thomas of Blountstown, Florida isn’t going to speed to a final decision on his college plans.

Though he’s been committed to Florida State since January, Thomas (6-0 195) made official visits to South Carolina and Kentucky, as well as FSU.

Thomas said Wednesday night that his final choice will come down to the Gamecocks and Seminoles, and it will likely be middle to late August before he makes his decision. He plans to visit each school one more time after the dead period ends July 31.

Thomas is talking regularly with coaches from both programs. Shane Beamer, Marquel Blackwell and Mike Shula have been hitting him up for the Gamecocks. He talked with Shula again Wednesday night.

“He was checking in on me like he usually does. He’s a good dude,” Thomas said. “Coach Shula is a good dude. That’s all it is. I talk to all the coaches.”

The message from the Gamecock staff to Thomas is one that Florida State can’t match.

“They tell me I’m an SEC back. That’s what they feel like,” Thomas said. “They are confident in me. It’s not really nothing to it. They just tell me I’m an SEC back and I belong in South Carolina.”

Thomas is the only running back commitment for the Seminoles at this point. USC does not yet have a running back committed. So there’s a need for him at both places. And he sees both as good opportunities.

“I can’t count both of the schools out. They are both good schools. That’s how I feel, honestly,” Thomas said. “Both got good schooling. Both got good programs. That’s what it’s going to be down to.”

Thomas reiterated that he is still committed to Florida State while also giving South Carolina a long, serious look. He said he’ll end up at the one where he feels he can be best developed for football and for life.

“All that matters is what’s inside the building,” Thomas said. “What’s inside the building will develop me to a better man, better football player. That’s really it. That and my family, that’s what it’s going to be down to. I’m going to figure it out the best way I can. I don’t have too much of a plan, I just know I’m going to figure it out. Trust me, I will.”

Thomas said he will lean heavily on his mother and Blountstown assistant coach Blake Barber for advice as he works his way to his final decision. He does not have an agent.

Last season, Thomas rushed for 1,880 yards and 34 touchdowns. As a sophomore, he rushed for 1365 yards and 22 touchdowns.