Photo by Randy Rimland Shaq Roland, Lexington

South Carolina's 2013 recruiting class took a major step forward Tuesday with the addition of Connor Mitch The 6-foot-2, 210-pound quarterback from Wakefield (Raleigh, N.C.) verbally committed to the Gamecocks yesterday over offers from a host of ACC and SEC schools.Mitch made the announcement via Twitter."JUST COMMITTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA!!!!!!" he tweeted Tuesday.One of the most productive quarterbacks in the country last season, Mitch posted eye-popping statistics in leading Wakefield to a 9-3 record. He completed 254 of 425 passes for 3,832 yards and 48 touchdowns against only nine interceptions. He also rushed for three scores.Mitch has continued his fine play this spring, performing well at the Elite 11 in New York City.Tom Lemming considers Mitch one of the top players in North Carolina this year."He's got good size and a good arm, more of a pro-style guy," Lemming said. "He has a strong presence about him where he's not afraid to take a sack. He'll stay in the pocket, which most of these high school kids don't do because they're in the spread."Mitch will have some impressive skill players to work with when he arrives in Columbia, S.C.Barring an early departure to the NFL Draft, former MaxPreps All-American Marcus Lattimore will be there taking handoffs, while 2012 top recruit Shaq Roland will line up outside at receiver.Roland, an electric athlete, was South Carolina's top in-state recruit in the class of 2012. He followed the trend set by Lattimore and 2011 No. 1 overall recruit Jadeveon Clowney of staying home and playing for the Gamecocks.Eight juniors have made verbal pledges to South Carolina, including Dillon (S.C.) offensive lineman D.J. Park The Gamecocks have also made impressive strides in the Class of 2014.Though they have no current commitments, they are serious contenders for standout defensive back Jabrill Peppers and offensive lineman Braden Smith , two national recruits.They are also in contention for 2014 lineman Donnell Stanley , likely the top in-state player in next year's recruiting cycle.