Electric back says USC in the game

Tennesseee RB Chase Hayden is one of the top running back prospects in the country, checking in as Rivals.com's seventh-best all-purpose back.

On Saturday, the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder made his way to Columbia to get a closer look at the South Carolina program. While there, he was able to check out one of USC's spring practice sessions.

"I really liked seeing the intensity at practice, how detailed the coaches coach," he told GamecockCentral.com. "I just had a great time talking with Coach Bentley and Coach Muschamp."

Bentley, who has lead coaching duties for the Gamecock running backs, has already built a strong bond with Hayden. Did the two discuss USC's plans for the 2016 class at the position?

"We talked about that a lot. He talked about how they’re going to sign one to two backs," Hayden said. "l feel like we have a really, really good relationship. I talk to him about three to four times a week. He talks about the opportunity to come in and compete."

Will Muschamp also sat down one-on-one with Hayden and discussed the advantages of the Gamecock program.

"I really like how honest and open he was. I could just tell he was shooting it to me straight. He was expressing the opportunity to come in and contribute."

During the practice session, which was closed to the public and media, Hayden got a glimpse into how offensive coordinator Kurt Roper utilizes the running back position within the Gamecock offense. It was a role that Hayden enjoyed seeing.

"I saw he had the running back lined up in the slot sometimes running routes, running jet sweeps, and in the backfield running inside and outside zone," Hayden said.

Hayden, who will visit Michigan next, hopes to narrow his list to five by the end of the summer and focus on those programs for official visits. A final time table has not been set to pick the winner for his services.

Following this visit, what kind of chance does USC have to make his cut?

"They have a really, really good shot of making it," he revealed.

Hayden will look for a few factors when trimming his list and making his choice.

"Just the right fit for me and the relationship with the coaches, a place where I can thrive academically."

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