South Carolina Football: 5 Freshmen the Gamecocks Can Build Around

Steve Spurrier has done the unthinkable.  He's built the Gamecocks into a consistent contender. 

However, the Gamecocks are always going to need young pieces to grow around.  Did they snatch any players worthy of building around in this year's recruiting class?

Of course they did. 

They picked up a potentially frightening backfield, an incredible offensive tackle and some rangy defenders.  Let's take a look at the players that USC will look to build around in the next four years. 

All prospect ratings courtesy of ESPN

Larenz Bryant, Linebacker

A heady and aggressive player, Larenz Bryant is the type of defensive leader teams love.  He's quick and can diagnose plays quickly. 

Bryant is a 4-star player who is a few pounds away from being SEC ready.  His instincts will allow him to be an immediate contributor.

The Gamecocks needed to get their linebacker position settled.  Bryant could be a long-time starter at any of the linebacker spots. 

Kelsey Griffin, Defensive Tackle

Kelsey Griffin was considered one of the best players of the week during the Under Armour All-American Game. 

This intelligent and high motor defensive tackle has the tools to become an All-American.  He's got great size and speed.  He's got the skill set of a defensive end placed in the body of a defensive tackle.  Griffin may be the best player that the Gamecocks signed in the class.

He could very well come in and start at defensive tackle with Byron Jerideau gone.  Either way, he's going to be a key cog in the defensive line for many years to come.   

D.J. Park, Offensive Line

With elite size and strength, D.J. Park has the potential to be an NFL-caliber tackle.  He held offers from Auburn, Clemson, Florida, LSU and many more, but thankfully he stuck with the Gamecocks. 

ESPN lauds his run blocking and his strength.  They also praise his ability to block in space.  This could make him an excellent guard as well.  You need a great offensive linemen to have a great team. 

D.J. Park is a great offensive lineman. 

David Williams, Running Back

This do-it-all back could make an immediate impact with the Gamecocks. 

He runs a 4.4 40 at a healthy 6'1" and 192 pounds.  This 4-star recruit was a member of ESPN's Top 150 and his key traits are his speed, power, elusiveness and catching ability. 

Williams can do many things to defenders.  He can run past them, around them and through them. 

He's going to join the next person on this list to create a very dangerous offense in the very near future. 

Connor Mitch, Quarterback

Connor Mitch is the pocket passing quarterback that Steve Spurrier is known for developing. 

This 4-star recruit has absolutely everything you could want in a starting quarterback.  He's got great size at 6'4" and 213 pounds.  ESPN has his key traits as his accuracy, arm strength, delivery and his ability to read defenses. 

In other words, he's a highly intelligent passer with an accurate rocket arm.  His offer sheet included Alabama, LSU and a plethora of other SEC powers. 

What's not to love?

This player is the cornerstone for the next generation of Gamecock teams.