Four-Star Cornerback Samari ‘Smoke’ Matthews Chooses South Carolina, Delivering Major Recruiting Win For Shane Beamer And Gamecocks
South Carolina football has landed one of its most coveted recruits in the 2025 cycle, as four-star cornerback Samari “Smoke” Matthews announced his commitment to the Gamecocks, giving Shane Beamer and defensive backs coach Torrian Gray a critical victory on the trail. The talented defensive back from North Carolina had narrowed his choices down to a handful of top programs, but ultimately decided Columbia was the best fit for his future both on and off the field.
Matthews, a consensus four-star prospect out of Weddington High School in Matthews, North Carolina, had been heavily pursued by the likes of Alabama, Tennessee, Clemson, and North Carolina. He’s ranked among the top-20 cornerbacks in the country and within the top 150 overall prospects according to most major recruiting services. His recruitment has been one of the more closely watched in the Southeast region, as programs from the SEC, ACC, and even Big Ten had him on their radar.
But it was South Carolina’s consistent approach, clear vision, and strong personal connections that ultimately won the day.
In a commitment ceremony streamed live, Matthews made it official, donning the garnet and black cap and declaring his allegiance to the Gamecocks. “It just felt like home,” Matthews said. “Coach Beamer, Coach Gray — they’ve been real with me from the jump. They didn’t sell me a dream; they showed me a plan.”
That plan centers around Matthews being an early contributor in a South Carolina secondary that’s been reshaped in recent years through both recruiting and the transfer portal. With his length, physicality, and elite athleticism, he’s expected to compete for early playing time, especially in nickel packages and on special teams.
Samari “Smoke” Matthews has become a household name in recruiting circles due to his aggressive playing style, football IQ, and leadership qualities. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 180 pounds, Matthews has the ideal frame for an SEC defensive back. He’s known for his ability to lock down top receivers, play tight man coverage, and make plays in space. He’s also earned praise for his tackling, ball skills, and instincts — all traits that project well to the next level.
As a junior, Matthews tallied over 40 tackles, 3 interceptions, and more than a dozen pass deflections, often shadowing the opposition’s No. 1 wide receiver. His film is loaded with highlight-reel moments — from acrobatic pass breakups to textbook open-field tackles and even contributions as a return man. While some schools recruited him as an athlete or even a two-way player, South Carolina made it clear they wanted him to be a cornerstone of their secondary.
For South Carolina, this commitment marks a massive step in continuing the upward trajectory under Shane Beamer. Since taking over the program, Beamer has emphasized winning key recruiting battles in the Southeast, especially within the Carolinas. Matthews is not only a blue-chip player, but he also fits the culture Beamer is building: competitive, accountable, and driven.
The Gamecocks have had mixed results on the field in recent years but continue to build an identity rooted in toughness, player development, and recruiting success. Landing Matthews sends a strong message that South Carolina is not only battling but winning head-to-head against traditional powers. It also builds on the recent recruiting momentum that includes other top defensive players in the 2025 class.
Defensive backs coach Torrian Gray deserves special recognition for this recruiting win. Widely regarded as one of the better DB developers in college football, Gray has built a strong reputation for sending players to the NFL, dating back to his time at Virginia Tech and Florida. His relationship with Matthews played a major role in closing the deal.
“Coach Gray is a real one,” Matthews said during his commitment. “He showed me film of how I fit into their defense. He showed me how he’s developed guys who went on to the league. That stood out. I trust him.”
Matthews also cited the vibe on campus and the passion of the South Carolina fanbase as major factors. “When I visited, I felt that energy,” he said. “It’s different down there. The fans, the facilities, the coaches — they all believe in what they’re building. And I want to be a part of that.”
South Carolina’s 2025 class is now looking like one of the strongest in the SEC East, with Matthews serving as a potential centerpiece. His presence could also help lure other elite recruits, especially fellow defensive players and athletes from the Carolinas who respect his game and leadership.
High school coaches around the region have praised Matthews not just for his talent, but his work ethic and humility. Weddington head coach Andy Capone said, “Smoke is the kind of kid every coach wants. He’s a leader, he studies film, he practices like every rep is a game. And when the lights come on, he delivers.”
The nickname “Smoke” comes from his middle name and his explosiveness on the field. It’s a fitting moniker for a player who brings heat to every snap. Whether it’s breaking up a pass on third down or delivering a jarring hit, Matthews plays with a chip on his shoulder and intensity that defines elite defenders.
In the NIL era, Matthews is also a marketable athlete with charisma and poise. He’s already attracted local sponsorship interest and has a growing social media presence. But those close to him say his priorities are still rooted in football, development, and helping his future team win.
As for what South Carolina fans can expect, Matthews offered a simple message: “You’re getting a dog. Somebody who’s going to work, compete, and never back down. I’m ready to put on for Columbia.”
With several months left until early signing day, South Carolina’s coaching staff will focus on locking in Matthews’ pledge and continuing to build a top-tier defensive class. But for now, the Gamecock faithful have reason to celebrate. Landing Samari “Smoke” Matthews is not just about adding a star to the roster; it’s about proving that South Carolina can go into North Carolina and beat out national programs for premier talent.
Recruiting analysts have already begun reshuffling their projections and crystal balls in favor of the Gamecocks for other highly-ranked defensive backs. Momentum in recruiting is a very real force, and Matthews’ commitment could create a ripple effect as South Carolina becomes a more attractive destination for other top prospects.
Ultimately, Matthews chose a program that believes in him and one that matches his competitive spirit. He could have taken the route many do — choosing a blueblood with a recent national title or perennial playoff appearance. Instead, he chose to be a part of building something new, something tougher, something his own.
South Carolina’s message has been clear: We’re not here to play for second. We’re here to change the game. And with “Smoke” Matthews now in the fold, that message just got a lot louder.
This commitment will go down as one of the signature moments of South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting cycle. It’s the kind of move that not only impacts the future of the program but tells the rest of the SEC that the Gamecocks are not backing down from anyone.
If Matthews lives up to his potential — and there’s every reason to believe he will — South Carolina may have landed a future All-SEC performer and potential NFL draft pick. For now, he’s just a high school senior with big dreams and the drive to make them reality. And he’ll do it wearing garnet and black.
