Punter prospect lands South Carolina offer. A commitment could be imminent

South Carolina special teams coach Pete Lembo brought in his top punter target, Mason Love of Parkville, Missouri, for an official visit over the weekend. Lembo had scouted a few others before going out to Missouri to watch Love in action.

After that, he decided Love (6-0, 175) was the guy he wanted, and he offered him Sunday after the official visit.

“Just a blessing,” Love said. “You always dream about getting SEC offers, but when it actually happened, I couldn’t believe it. I’m just grateful and fortunate that they believe in me. I’m just super excited.”

Love has a strong leg. He averaged over 44 yards per punt last season. But lots of punters have strong legs. He believes Lembo saw something else in him during his workout.

“I think it was the maturity that I have,” Love said. “When he came down to watch me kick, I was efficient and organized with my warmups, I punted the ball good, had good technique. I take pride in all that. The conversations we’ve had have been great.’

The weekend before visiting USC, Love went to Cal for a camp and a visit, and the Bears offered. So, it’s a two-coast competition for him.

“I’m not going to any more camps. I don’t have any more visits lined up,” Love said. “Right now, my top two are Cal and USC, and right now USC is at the top. Originally (the announcement) was going to be Aug. 1, but after seeing Columbia and meeting all the coaches, I just feel like it’s home. I’m probably make my commitment decision (this) week. I have to find someone to make a graphic. My parents loved it out there, so I’m sure they’ll support me no matter what.”

Duke, Kansas State, Navy and Arkansas State were some other schools to show interest in Love.