Sanders commits

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Clemson has landed its ninth verbal commitment of the 2008 recruiting class in Crestview, Fla. offensive lineman Matt Sanders, a 6-foot-5, 290-pounder who pledged to the Tigers earlier today while on an unofficial visit.

"I decided this afternoon that I'm going to be a Tiger," Sanders told Tigerillustrated.com. "Just the whole package they presented. (Offensive line) coach (Brad) Scott is a great guy. He's a good Christian guy. I like the fans' interest there. My dad and I went to a shop today and were amazed by the fans' interest there."

Defensive coordinator Vic Koenning and Scott co-recruited the lineman.

"Coach Koenning showed me around the campus and where the players live," noted the Sunshine State prospect. "We saw the practice fields and met with coach Scott and his wife and had lunch at the golf course. Coach Vic is a real nice guy. I enjoyed getting to know him and am looking forward to play for him."

"I can't wait to have coach Scott help get the best out of me as a player," he continued. "I totally respect him."

What was it about Clemson?

"Their facilities are great, some of the top in the country," Sanders said. "People playing there seem nice and are like me so I think we'll get along well. Plus, it's a small town unlike Orlando and Nashville, its something I'd be used to. It's just a better fit for me."

What kind of player are the Tigers getting?

"A good one I think," Sanders admitted. "I work hard."

Clemson's coaching staff plans to take no more than four offensive linemen in the 2008 class, with a design of acquiring two tackles and two inside players.

Sanders becomes the Tigers' first offensive line commit, and the third from a Florida prospect.

Scott evaluated the 290-pounder several weeks ago, and from that point the Tigers ramped up their interest in the Crestview standout.

Sanders, a Tallahassee (FL) Nike Camp participant, also drew other offers, including full rides from Purdue and N.C. State, among other Division I-A programs.

Clemson's 2008 verbal commitments

1. Marquan Jones (WR 6-0, 170, 4.45) Blythewood

2. DaQuan Bowers (DL 6-4, 267, 4.61) Bamberg-Ehrhardt

3. Matt Skinner (LS 6-6, 220, NA) Jacksonville, Fla. - Bolles

4. Jon Richt (QB 6-2, 205, 4.85) Athens, Ga. - Prince Avenue Christian

5. Kyle Parker (QB 6-1, 190, 4.6) Jacksonville, Fla. - Bartram Trail

6. Nic DiLillo (TE 6-5, 220, 4.85) Madison, OH

7. Spencer Benton (P/K 6-3, 190, NA) Myrtle Beach

8. Andre Ellington (RB 5-10, 170, 4.4) Moncks Corner - Berkeley

9. Matt Sanders (OL 6-5, 290, 4.8) Crestview, Fla.