Brandon Huffman, of Fox Sports and Scout.com, is reporting that the number one-ranked prospect of 2012, Arik Armstead, has rescinded his commitment to play football for the USC Trojans. Word of this decision comes from Armstead's father, Guss.
The scouting line on Armstead has been exceptionally glowing. It's not often that a prospect comes along with this kind of size and athleticism. Seemingly tailor-made for the offensive tackle position at 6-foot-8 and 280 pounds, he was hoping to play defensive tackle in college, and originally committed to USC with that understanding.
It's a given that a lot more information will be forthcoming in the next few days and weeks, but perhaps his decision has something to do with USC and Lane Kiffin's treatment of Arik's brother and current Trojans player, Armond. Kiffin is reluctant to use players he doesn't need to, particularly in the wake of USC's recent scholarship reductions. Armond is currently taking a medical redshirt season in his senior year, which is lowering his draft value and granting him an extra season at college.
Another possibility is that USC balked at Arik's plans to move to DT or at his desire to be a two-sport athlete in football and basketball.
Whatever the reason, this could potentially be a big loss for the Trojans.