Elite Four-Star Cornerback Samari ‘Smoke’ Matthews Will Announce College Decision Today In Crucial Moment For South Carolina Football
One of the most closely watched recruitments in the 2025 college football cycle is set to reach its conclusion, as four-star cornerback Samari “Smoke” Matthews will announce his college commitment today. The standout defender from Weddington High School in Matthews, North Carolina, has become one of the most coveted prospects in the Southeast and has the attention of several national powerhouses. Now, with months of visits, evaluations, and conversations behind him, Matthews will finally reveal his next destination — and South Carolina is right in the thick of it.
For Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks, Matthews’ decision could be a major turning point in the program’s 2025 recruiting class. The Gamecocks have made Matthews one of their top defensive priorities for over a year, and the coaching staff has gone all-in on landing the lockdown corner. With his blend of size, speed, instincts, and competitive fire, Matthews is widely regarded as one of the most college-ready defensive backs in the nation. Ranked as a top-20 cornerback and top-150 overall prospect by most major services, his commitment could shift the balance of recruiting momentum in the Carolinas and beyond.
Matthews’ recruitment has featured several heavy hitters. Programs such as Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Clemson, North Carolina, and Texas have all made serious pushes. But as the decision day arrives, insiders believe South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas are the main contenders to land his pledge. Each school has presented a compelling case, but South Carolina has built a relationship that may be difficult to top.
Throughout the process, Matthews has praised South Carolina’s coaching staff, particularly defensive backs coach Torrian Gray. Known for his ability to develop NFL-ready defensive backs, Gray has made a lasting impression on Matthews by showing a clear development plan and building a personal connection. Matthews has visited Columbia multiple times and has spoken highly of the environment, culture, and opportunity the Gamecocks offer.
“Coach Gray’s track record speaks for itself,” Matthews said earlier in the spring. “He’s developed guys at every level, and what I like is how much detail he puts into teaching the position. It’s not just about running fast — it’s about understanding the game. That matters.”
Beyond the coaching staff, South Carolina has emphasized its vision for the future — a vision that includes Matthews as a potential Day 1 contributor. With the Gamecocks looking to build a defense capable of competing at the top of the SEC, securing a cornerback like Matthews would be a foundational move. His skillset — physical press coverage, fluid hips, ability to track the ball in the air, and toughness in run support — is exactly what South Carolina needs to elevate its secondary.
The timing of Matthews’ decision couldn’t be more important for the Gamecocks. With momentum building in the 2025 class and several other top targets watching closely, a commitment from Matthews could be the catalyst that sparks a recruiting surge heading into the fall. Players often recruit other players, and Matthews’ stature among his peers makes him a potential ambassador for the Gamecock brand.
However, South Carolina isn’t the only program with a strong pitch. Texas, fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance and a Big 12 title, has positioned itself as a top-tier destination for defensive talent. Under head coach Steve Sarkisian and defensive backs coach Blake Gideon, the Longhorns have made significant progress on the recruiting trail, landing blue-chip defenders across the country. The move to the SEC has only strengthened their appeal, especially to prospects in the Southeast who see Texas as a rising power.
Tennessee is also firmly in the mix. The Vols have built a solid relationship with Matthews and emphasized the chance to play early in a defense that values versatility and aggression. With their passionate fan base, top-end facilities, and improved recruiting infrastructure under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee presents a strong case for elite talent.
Despite strong competition, many believe South Carolina remains in the driver’s seat. Matthews’ family has developed comfort with the Gamecock staff, and Columbia’s proximity to his hometown allows for an easier transition from high school to college. Additionally, South Carolina’s investment in facilities, player development, and NIL opportunities has positioned it to compete with any program in the nation.
While fans across the country wait for the announcement, it’s worth noting what Matthews brings to the field. As a junior, he recorded over 40 tackles, three interceptions, multiple pass breakups, and a handful of electrifying special teams plays. His tape shows a high football IQ, quick reaction time, and a willingness to challenge any receiver who lines up across from him. He’s physical at the point of attack, rarely misses open-field tackles, and possesses the recovery speed to close gaps and make game-changing plays.
College coaches love his competitiveness and confidence — two traits necessary for success in the SEC. Matthews doesn’t shy away from big moments. He relishes the challenge of covering an opponent’s No. 1 target and has consistently stepped up against top-tier competition.
His off-field character also stands out. Coaches and teammates describe him as mature, focused, and driven. He’s a leader in the locker room and carries himself with professionalism beyond his years. These traits make him even more attractive to programs looking to build a culture of accountability and excellence.
For South Carolina fans, the announcement is highly anticipated. If the Gamecocks can land Matthews, it will be one of the biggest recruiting wins of the Shane Beamer era. Not only would it signal South Carolina’s ability to compete head-to-head with national powers, but it would also validate the program’s approach to building from the inside out — starting with elite players in key positions like cornerback.
The Gamecocks have quietly assembled one of the more intriguing defensive classes in the SEC for 2025, but the addition of Matthews could elevate that group from good to special. His commitment would send a message to other recruits: South Carolina is serious, organized, and ready to develop future pros.
With hours to go before the announcement, tension is high across fan bases hoping to hear their name called. Matthews has kept things close to the vest, maintaining professionalism and respect for every program involved. Ultimately, his decision will reflect months of personal reflection, family input, and detailed evaluation.
Whichever school lands Matthews will be getting more than a four-star cornerback — they’ll be getting a competitor, a leader, and a future star.
If it’s South Carolina, the Gamecocks’ secondary of the future will have its anchor — a player who can line up in man coverage, erase top targets, and serve as the face of a defense that’s hungry to dominate.
If it’s Texas or Tennessee, it will represent a major recruiting coup and a significant loss for the Gamecocks.
But whatever the outcome, one thing is clear: today’s announcement will be a defining moment in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Samari “Smoke” Matthews is ready to make his choice — and college football is watching.
