Four-star tight end Michael Smith has signed with the South CarolinaGamecocks. He is the highest-rated offensive playmaker in the class for Shane Beamer’s team. Smith comes from Calvary Day School in Savannah, GA, and provides a big, athletic pass-catching tight end for the Gamecocks. At 6’4” and 235 pounds, Smith possesses the ability to contribute right away. Carolina returns tight end Josh Simon, who is a similar player to Smith, and a host of inexperienced players at the position. The raw talent of the number eleven tight end in the country will allow him to surpass other young tight ends and find his way onto the field.
How Smith Fits
Smith caught 66 passes for 1285 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2021 and 2022. He is also a high school basketball player, and he can box out defenders and win in contested catch situations. Smith is a true pass-catching threat. He has great quickness, especially for his size. Add that to his large frame, and the sum is a player who can work his way open against any defender and run through tacklers. That results in yards after the catch as well. Smith is a perfect fit for Dowell Loggains’ system, especially with LaNorris Sellers at quarterback. Sellers, a big, dual-threat guy, will often require a spy. That means one less linebacker, nickel, or safety to match up with a pass catcher like Smith.
The transfer portal brought in a host of skilled players at the running back and wide receiver positions. However, the tight end is getting its primary upgrade from the high school ranks. While other high school players will need a year or more to develop, Smith will make his presence known early for South Carolina. Slot him in at TE2 on the depth chart for August 31 against Old Dominion. The Gamecocks are getting a difference-maker in the Smith.
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