South Carolina Gamecocks 2015 Position Preview: Defensive Tackle
Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports
Abu Lamin, Ulric Jones, Kelsey Griffin, and Dexter Wideman
It seems absurd that there are four more names worth mentioning for the defensive tackle position, but that’s just how deep this position is for the Gamecocks this season.
Abu Lamin was a four-star JUCO transfer that came to South Carolina as a part of the class of 2014. He chose the Gamecocks over offers from Alabama, Auburn, Arkansas, and many others. He had hopes of making a big impact last season, but put on too much unnecessary weight. He’s lost 30 pounds according to the coaches, and will be backing up Dixon Jr., and Phillip Dukes.
Ulric Jones came to South Carolina as a part of the 2015 class. Another JUCO transfer, Jones was a 3-star recruit and chose the Gamecocks over offers from Mississippi State and Maryland. Jones quickly made a name for himself by channeling his inner-Spurrier and trash talking Clemson. Ward recently stated that Jones may be moved to compete with Lamin for the back up spot to Dixon Jr., and Dukes.
Kelsey Griffin was projected to be the starter at one point during fall camp. He will be competing against Stallworth and Sawyer for playing time. He was a 4-star recruit in the 2013 class. Griffin recorded 8 tackles for the Gamecocks last season.
Dexter Wideman was one of the guys Gamecock fans talked about being able to come in and compete for playing time and eventually take over a starting spot, possibly later this season. His athletic ability gives him a big advantage, but he will have to get used to playing on the inside as he was a defensive end in high school. Wideman chose the Gamecocks after flipping from Florida State back in the 2014 recruiting cycle. The 4-star recruit stuck with the Gamecocks through a stop at prep school.