Pat Martin Pushes Announcement Back

By Phil Kornblut, Palmetto Sports

JL Mann DB Pat Martin (6-0 192) had planned to announce a college choice between USC and Tennessee on August 16th. But Martin has decided to delay that announcement.

"I'm looking to move the date back because I plan to visit South Carolina before announcing," Martin said. "I want to meet with the staff and coach Spurrier."

Martin said he communicated with Gamecock recruiter Shawn Elliott thru e-mail Wednesday. And he says he talks to Tennessee coaches every day. In his mind right now, the Vols are out in front.

"I want to give them (USC) a chance to recruit me," Martin said of his impending visit. "I want to give them a chance to change my mind. It's the 12th round and they've got to deliver a knockout punch. South Carolina has got to blow me away."

Martin said he does not know when he'll visit USC but it won't be this week. And he's now unsure when he'll make a decision.