Dalton Freeman has a new reason to like Tennessee, a scholarship offer.

The offensive lineman from Pelion (S.C.) High School received the official invitation from the Vols on Friday.

"That's a big-time offer," Freeman said. "It's a big-time school and it's great to get it."

The offer came after UT's coaches reviewed video on the 6-foot-6, 285-pounder.

Freeman already had interest in UT because of his relationship with defensive tackles coach Dan Brooks and an admiration for the Vols' offensive style.

Freeman, who has favored Georgia and Clemson because of their strong interest, said he will show the Vols more attention now that he has a scholarship waiting.

"You might like a school," he said, "but if they haven't offered, there's no point in liking them too much because you have no chance to go there. Now that they've offered, they'll definitely get more consideration."

Freeman said he plans to take an unofficial visit to UT this summer.

It will be his second trip to Knoxville. He attended a game at Neyland Stadium in 2005. Freeman has fond memories of the experience.

"You get in the stadium and see over 100,000 fans," Freeman told GoVolsXtra.com last week. "I remember being really impressed by the fans and the die-hard crowd."

Freeman has offers from more than 20 schools, including Georgia, South Carolina, Clemson, Penn State, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, North Carolina State and Wake Forest.

Along with UT, Freeman said he plans to visit Georgia, Colorado, Nevada and Central Florida this summer.

He has already taken unofficial visits to Clemson, South Carolina and Wake Forest.