TE Mike Tyler commits to LSU: 'When I think of LSU, I think national champions'

It came down to Duke, LSU and West Virginia for Columbia (S.C.) Hammond School tight end Mike Tyler. He took his official visits in June, he weighed out his options, and one day before his birthday, he committed to the Tigers.

This one developed late, but the SEC program in Baton Rouge made things happen fast and have closed out this recruitment.

“LSU came in a little later than most schools,” Tyler told On3. “They came in, in the spring. LSU doesn’t really recruit South Carolina. They came to see me, they started recruiting me, then they offered me. I camped at LSU early in the summer, then I took my official visit and I was back for the Bayou Splash in July.

“Things just took off with LSU. Once they saw me, things turned up with them and it just happened. Once I got there and saw everything, I knew I could go there. I thought it might be too far from home at first, but once I got on campus, I loved it. LSU was where I wanted to go.”

Tyler made his decision weeks ago. He knew coming off the official visit that he wanted to be a Tiger. He kept it quiet until his birthday, but this decision has been made.

“It is about the people. LSU has a great program, they develop players and there is a lot of tradition, but it is about the people for me. They make it feel like home.

“Coach Brian Kelly loves my fit, we can talk about life and he knew about my commitment first. I have a great relationship with coach Slade Nagle too. He sees a lot in me, he likes my fit in the tight ends room and the coaches make me feel comfortable.

“The people at LSU are nice, welcoming and real. I like how honest they are and it is a great feeling each I am on campus. It is real southern hospitality.”

Duke was a strong contender, and Tyler almost committed to the Blue Devils. LSU is where he wants to be. He is ready to win in Baton Rouge.

“When I think of LSU, I think national champions,” Tyler said. “I think we will win one soon. It is a great recruiting class, they have great coaches and players there and I am going to a top program.”