Jadeveon Clowney, Nation's Top Prospect, Signs With South Carolina

February 14 2011 Last updated at 03:40 PM ET

Jadeveon Clowney celebrated Valentine's Day on Monday by giving Steve Spurrier what he has always wanted.

Himself.

Clowney, the nation's consensus top high school athlete, announced at a packed news conference at South Pointe High School that he will be traveling 68 miles south from his Rock Hill, S.C., home to play college football for the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Clowney (6-6, 247) chose South Carolina over Alabama and Clemson, and cited proximity to his parents as a key reason for the decision.

"I'm just glad it's over," Clowney said. "I'm tired. Maybe now, I can get some rest."

Clowney, who signed nearly two weeks after most of the country's best seniors and on his 18th birthday, said that he gave serious thought to playing for the Crimson Tide, which produced the top class in the country. But, he said, Tuscaloosa simply was too far from home (400 miles).

Clemson also became a significant factor late in the process. A January official visit to check out the Tigers coupled with a strong haul by Clemson on National Signing Day certainly helped that program's efforts.

Several factors led Clowney to South Carolina. In addition to the proximity to his home, two former South Pointe players -- cornerback Stephon Gilmore and safety DeVonte Holloman -- are on the Gamecocks' roster.

Clowney also credited South Carolina defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward for playing a major role.

The Gamecocks also signed the top in-state player in 2010, five-star running back Marcus Lattimore. As a true freshman, Lattimore rushed for more than 1,000 yards and helped lead South Carolina to the SEC Championship Game. Many believe Clowney can have a similar impact in 2011.

A strong-side defensive end and arguably the most polished prospect at his position in years, he recorded 32.5 sacks as a senior and 23 as a junior. In addition to having the ideal frame and uncanny athleticism, Clowney also possesses a tremendous motor.

Clowney's decision gave South Carolina 32 total signees for this class, and various media reports project the Gamecocks five scholarship players over their allowed total of 85 ? a number South Carolina must hit by August. Clowney is also considered by some to be an academic qualifier risk.

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