Local linebacker T.J. Brunson now a take for Gamecocks

Richland Northeast linebacker T.J. Brunson planned to commit to South Carolina in March, but the Gamecocks told him they wanted to see him in action this season before they could accept a pledge because he was poised to have hip surgery.

Apparently the Gamecocks have seen enough to be convinced Brunson is fully healthy and worthy of a committable offer.

Brunson said Monday night he has been informed by Gamecocks linebackers coach Kirk Botkin that he is now a take. Brunson was in touch with Botkin on Friday and Saturday.

“Coach Botkin says that he really wants to coach me and I would be outstanding in their scheme,” said Brunson, who had 14 tackles, 11 of them solo, in his game last Friday night. Asked if Botkin told him the Gamecocks are ready to accept a commitment from him, Brunson responded, “Yes, sir.”

The problem for the Gamecocks is that Brunson currently is committed to Louisville.

Brunson said he is not ready to flip.

“I’m going to enjoy the process and take my unofficials/officials and see as many places as possible,” he said.

Brunson said USC, Louisville and Georgia Southern are three places he wants to visit this fall. He’s considering going to the USC-Kentucky game this Saturday but a deep sea fishing trip in North Carolina may take precedence. He’s looking at an official visit to Louisville the weekend of Nov. 14.

Brunson is happy to have the hometown team back as an option but he’s not going to rush a decision in any direction, be that sticking with his Louisville commitment (which he called a seven on a 10 scale) or leaping at the chance to play for the Gamecocks.

“I never really cut them out,” he said of the Gamecocks. “I’m just waiting to see how everything plays out since I know more schools are coming this season.”