Once a Gamecock, always a Gamecock; Rhames commits to Gamecocks
July 30, 2022
4 star Sumter DE Monteque Rhames (6-6 240) has been a Gamecock in high school, and he’ll continue as a Gamecock in college as he announced a commitment to USC Saturday night. Rhames is the second in-state commitment for the Gamecocks and the 14th overall for the 2023 class.Rhames was a frequent visitor to the football facilities this spring and summer. The Gamecocks were one of his early favorites and their continued strong pursuit led to his conclusion that playing for Shane Beamer and defensive ends coach Sterling Lucas was the move.
“They said I can be one of the best players to come out of USC,” Rhames said earlier this year. “He (Lucas) has been on me since he got here, since his first day. He told me I would fit in good. He said he can’t wait to work with me. He likes the way I play, and he can get me right and ready for the next level.”
Rhames also had on his shortlist. Virginia Tech, NC State, Georgia, Michigan, UCF, Florida State, and Coastal Carolina. He made several other unofficial visits besides the Gamecocks including stops at Clemson, NC State, North Carolina and Alabama.
Rhames was a destructive force on one of the state’s top defenses last season. He totaled 70 tackles with 21 tackles for loss and 7 sacks.