McCord commits to…Miami…yes, Miami

Posted Jan 7, 2012 by TBO Staff

Updated Jan 8, 2012 at 12:28 AM

Tampa Jefferson defensive end Tyriq McCord made a very visible, verbal and somewhat surprising commitment to the University of Miami at Saturday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

Joined on national television Saturday by Dragons coach Jeremy Earle, McCord gave the Canes their second commitment of the game in San Antonio, Texas. Also headed to the “U” is Miami Columbus safety Deon Bush.

“I think I’m going to take my talents to South Beach,” McCord told NBC at halftime of the all-star event.

Besides the fact Miami is facing the strong possibility of NCAA sanctions for a slew of alleged violations made public last summer, McCord’s selection of the Canes was not expected by many recruiting pundits because he had hinted it would be any number of other schools. Many said he was leaning toward South Carolina, while others said it would be Georgia. He also was seriously considering Florida, Texas Christian and Southern California, which he plans to visit next week. He hopes to visit TCU on Jan. 20.

The 6-foot-3, 220-pound McCord recorded 11.5 sacks, 59 tackles, one interception, three forced fumbles and, on offense, 14 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown.

He is the No. 7-ranked weakside defensive end in the country by Rivals.com.

McCord joins Hillsborough defensive lineman Earl Moore, Admiral Farragut receiver and Countryside quarterback Gray Crow as area Miami commitments.