Big 2018 DT takes in Columbia

Concord (N.C.) defensive tackle Rick Sandidge made a return visit to Columbia on Thursday, and while in town was able to take in South Carolina's open spring practice session.

"I got to see the campus, where the athletes stay at, the classes, the Horseshoe, and different areas," he told GamecockCentral.com. "I thought they knew what they were talking about."

While the 6-foot-5, 263-pounder did not go into great detail regarding the defense and overall feel of practice, he did have a good time taking it all in on Thursday.

"I thought the practice was great. We were enjoying the atmosphere," he said.

The talks that the North Carolina product had with the USC coaching staff centered more around off-field matters. He said the main factor in deciding where he will become a student-athlete at the next level is finding a place where he feels at home.

"I got to talk to Coach Muschamp and Coach Bentley. It wasn't as much about football."

In addition to Sandidge's multiple trips to Columbia, he has a family tie to the university with his mother having attended South Carolina. Will that, plus USC's close proximity to his home, weigh heavily in his choice?

"It’s not more of 'I had family there so I have to go there'. It’s more of my decision. South Carolina’s a great school but I’m nowhere near towards deciding."

Sandidge, who will see North Carolina on Friday and Tennessee on Saturday, is not ready to name any leaders.

"I really don’t have a rank, I treat all my schools with the same respect," he said