Siegel's Maxwell Iyama commits to South Carolina

Siegel junior offensive lineman Maxwell Iyama on Sunday committed to South Carolina.

The 6-foot-5, 300-pounder announced his decision via Twitter.

"I feel like they topped everyone, opportunity-wise," Iyama said. "They provided the most opportunity on and off the field."

Iyama also had offers from SEC schools Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi State, Ole Miss and Missouri, along with Louisville, Memphis and Southern Miss.

His final five (in no particular order) were the Gamecocks, Georgia, Memphis, Tennessee and Louisville.

Iyama visited South Carolina last weekend and didn't take long to choose the Gamecocks.

"I really liked the atmosphere and the energy there," he said. "It didn't take long to fit in."

He is rated the 37th-best offensive lineman in the nation and 17th overall in the state by 247Sports. He is the 27th-best offensive tackle in the nation by Rivals.

With spring practice about a month away, Iyama can turn his attention to his senior season.

"It feels good, a relief," Iyama said. "Now I can just focus on the season and my team. I feel like this is the best decision for me right now and in the future."

South Carolina was 6-7 a season ago. The Gamecocks went to the Birmingham Bowl, falling to South Florida 46-39 in overtime. They reached bowl eligibility by winning four of five late in the season, including a 24-21 triumph over Tennessee.

Reach Cecil Joyce at cjoyce@dnj.rom or 615-278-5168 and on Twitter @Cecil_Joyce.