With 2019 offensive centerpiece, QB Ryan Hilinksi, already in the fold, South Carolina has now added a defensive headliner in DE Zacch Pickens. Read below to see how the nation's No.25-rated prospect will impact Will Muschamp's defense:
What he brings: Pickens is a defensive line prospect who possesses a nice blend of size, strength and agility. The top-five DE is a big body capable of being a versatile player in the trenches as a result of his excellent measurables. He is a powerful player who can be tough versus the run as he is big and strong, can fire out, play with leverage and hold ground. A big man who can move well for his size, he can not only anchor against the run but can also be an active presence in the trenches as well. He displays good awareness and discipline and can get himself in position to make plays. Pickens can also utilize his physical tools to disrupt as a pass rusher, capable of using his size and explosiveness to power his way back to QB. Additionally, he flashes some ability to be active with his hands, dip his inside shoulder, and work a tight path around blockers.
How he fits: Good recruiting starts at home and Muschamp and his staff were able to land a key in-state target in Pickens. A top-25 prospect in the ESPN 300, this edition gives the Gamecocks a very talented player at a key position and someone who could come in and quickly contribute. There is room to improve and refine, but Pickens is physically ready and is a good enough player at this stage that it is reasonable to think he can come in and work his way into the Gamecocks D-line rotation and immediately play a role. With his size, strength and agility, he could also become a valuable swing-type player for them along the defensive line, able to play on the edge or slide inside and also contribute at DT.
Reminds us of: Pickens reminds us some of Stephon Wynn, a 2018 ESPN 300 DL out of South Carolina who signed with Alabama via IMG Academy. A big body that can get off the ball and be a powerful and active presence in the trenches. Both these prospects are young with their best football ahead of them and are two examples of more D-line talent headed to the SEC.
How the class is shaping up: Muschamp is looking to build on an impactful bowl win over Michigan and top-20 2018 class. It is already seeing the returns of the newfound momentum. Hilinski, the No. 2-ranked QB, was a big pick-up out of California. Jamario Holley is an in-state ESPN 300 prospect who can provide playmaking ability at WR and in the return game. Four-star DE/OLB Rodricus Fitten is an underrated addition with an explosive first step.