It’s almost decision time for four-star defensive end Arden Key, the top player remaining on South Carolina’s board and one of several uncommitted big-timers Auburn will try and sway this weekend during the final moments of the recruiting season.

The Lithonia, Ga. native who has decommitted from the Gamecocks twice during his recruitment, has spoken on campus with the coaching staffs at LSU, Miami and South Carolina over the last nine days and has a much-anticipated trip to Auburn this weekend.

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He hasn’t announced a favorite, but early playing time has always been a primary factor in his program of choice. Key spoke at length with South Carolina defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward during his visit and knows the Gamecocks lack depth and need a playmaker up front.

Already familiar with the staff and current players, there wasn’t anything new Key picked up during his time in Columbia, S.C.

“Everything was an overview because I’ve been plenty of times,” Key told GoGamecocks.com recruiting guru Phil Kornblutt. “I know a lot of players and it was all about catching up, talking a little football. I know a lot of people on the team so I have a lot of inside track on what’s going on in South Carolina football.”

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The chance at playing early with the Tigers is unlikely. Auburn’s primary remaining targets are both five-star defensive ends — Byron Cowart and CeCe Jefferson — and the Tigers return former five-star Carl Lawson from an injury that sidelined him for the entire 2014 season.

Many think South Carolina will land Key despite his recent decommitment. He’ll announce his decision on Feb. 2.