Baylor Red Raiders' Chandler Gouger runs for an 11-yard gain during the football jamboree at Finley Stadium.Chandler Gouger will use this weekend's official visit to the Wofford College campus in Spartanburg, S.C., to get to know his future home. The Baylor School tight end has committed to the Terriers and said he's eager to begin the next chapter in his football career.
"They really started recruiting me hard during the season, and after I made an unofficial visit there, I kind of knew that's where I wanted to be," Gouger said. "I just felt relaxed right away, like I was at home, and once I got to know the coaches and their system and learned more about the academics I decided to make it official.
"Ever since I did that, I've just had a very relaxed feeling. I'm glad the process is over and I don't have to worry about where I'm going."
Gouger also was being recruited by Richmond, Tennessee Tech, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Presbyterian and Western Kentucky but said he is firm in his commitment to Wofford and won't be making visits to any other programs between now and national signing day in February.
Gouger said the potential for early playing time and the fact that Wofford's offense incorporates the tight end as a receiver as well as a blocker helped make his decision.
A two-year starter for the Red Raiders, the 6-foot-4, 215-pound Gouger had 17 catches for nearly 250 yards this past season. and coach Phil Massey praised his blocking ability as well.
"I think it's a really good fit for Chandler," Massey said. "Their offense can utilize his pass catching and blocking skills, and I think he'll really take off once he gets there and adjusts to the college game."
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.