In-state DT gets closer look

South Carolina dispensed the first major scholarship offer last summer for in-state defensive tackle Josh Belk.

Since then, circumstances have changed with Will Muschamp's arrival as head coach in Columbia. Muschamp made it known early in his tenure that Belk's offer was still on the table, and the coaching staff's pursuit has been consistent ever since with running backs coach Bobby Bentley taking the lead.

The 6-foot-3, 305-pounder was in Columbia on Saturday taking in the Gamecocks' spring practice session.

"Oh yeah, it was pretty cool up there," the Lewisville product told GamecockCentral.com. "I went to the player’s meeting and watched the practice."

Saturday's session was a live scrimmage situation, and Belk took note of the tempo and tone.

"I liked it, they were going at it with each other," he said. "It’s physical."

While on campus, the 2018 standout had a chance to catch up with Muschamp and other coaches on the USC staff.

"They were telling me to keep my grades up, keep my head on straight and I’m going good places," said Belk.

Growing up liking South Carolina may help USC's cause in Belk's recruitment, but he had some positives takeaways aside from that on Saturday. At this stage, he's calling all of the programs that have offered even.

"They’re pretty organized and I like the coaching staff," he said. "They're all pretty big to be honest."

Belk also carries offers from Clemson and LSU and mentioned that he will make a trip to Florida State and possibly some other schools later this spring.

When thinking about which program he wants to become a part of eventually, Belk will look at one simple factor.

"I want wherever can take me the farthest in life," he said.