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Former FSU OT Hardrick Transferring To USF

By BRETT McMURPHY The Tampa Tribune

Published: Aug 20, 2007

TAMPA - Former Florida State offensive tackle Matt Hardrick said Sunday he will transfer to the University of South Florida.

"I felt like South Florida was a more determined team," said Hardrick, who chose USF over UCF, South Carolina and Florida Atlantic. "I know a lot of guys on the team and I've known Coach [Jim] Leavitt for a long time. Once Coach and I sat down and had a talk, I just felt he's the type of head coach I could really play for and show my talent."

The 6-foot-5, 329-pound Hardrick not only will be one of the biggest, but also the most highly rated player in USF history. As a senior at Orlando Edgewater in 2005, Hardrick earned Parade All-American honors, was a second-team All-USA Today selection and rated as the nation's No. 5 offensive lineman.

In 2005, Hardrick chose FSU over Florida, Miami and Oklahoma, but didn't qualify and attended Hargrave (Va.) Military Academy, where he played with current USF freshman running back Mike Ford.

Last year at FSU, he played in eight games as a true freshman, but was dismissed from the program two weeks ago for a violation of team rules.

"I'm not only trying to get a fresh start at USF, but it's a chance to redeem myself," Hardrick said. "What happened to me at Florida State, you can guess whatever you want, it's nothing big or serious. I just made mistakes."

Hardrick said he plans to start classes next Monday, but is waiting to be accepted into the university. He must sit out this season, but will have three seasons of eligibility beginning in 2008.