Hutch Eckerson

Fifth-year senior offensive lineman… enters the fall listed as a co-starter along with Kyle Nunn at right tackle… could also play guard… has made 15 career starts… played extensively during his true freshman season in 2006, then took a redshirt year in 2007.

2009: Fourth-year offensive lineman who made eight starts at right tackle… moved into the starting role in the fourth week of the season and held the starting slot for seven consecutive weeks… also started the bowl game against UConn.

2008: Played in seven games, making a pair of starts… got the starting nod in the season opener against NC State at left tackle, then made the start at left guard against Arkansas… named the Most Improved Lineman in the spring.

2007: Redshirted during his second season at Carolina.

2006: Played in 10 games, making five starts as a true freshman… did not play in the opener at Mississippi State or in the final two games against Clemson and Houston… made his debut against Georgia… moved into the starting lineup against Wofford… also made starts against FAU, Auburn, Kentucky and Vanderbilt.

High School: Attended Lumberton (N.C.) High School where he played for Coach Bill Dockery… was a four-year starter… first-team all-conference, all-county and all-state selection… rated as a four-star prospect by Rivals.com and was considered as one of the top 10 players coming out of the state of North Carolina, regardless of position.. listed as the No. 21 offensive tackle in the nation by Rivals.com… named to the Associated Press All-State team, along with fellow Gamecock Pierre Andrews… represented North Carolina in the 2005 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas.

Personal: Hutch Eckerson was born February 19, 1988… interested in a degree in sociology… enjoys hunting and playing golf in his spare time… father, Todd Eckerson, played at North Carolina State… chose South Carolina over scholarship offers from Virginia Tech, NC State, North Carolina and Virginia.