College Football Recruiting: LSU Backfield Scares off 4-Star RB Devante Bourque

Four-star running back recruit Devante Bourque has decommitted from LSU, according to ASUDevils.com.

The source quotes Bourque’s father as saying that he called Brick Haley, the Tigers’ defensive line coach that recruited Bourque, and told him that his son had decided to rescind his commitment to the Tigers.

"Davante just felt it would be best to go somewhere else," Landry said. "He's not scared of any competition."

Competition is something that Bourque would have a lot of in Baton Rouge, as the Tigers boast a deep backfield full of young stars. Sophomores Michael Ford, Spencer Ware and Alfred Blue had seven, eight and seven touchdowns respectively. True freshmen Kenny Hilliard also emerged late this season as a contender for the starting job next season, as he ripped off eight touchdowns.

“It's about being smart. He said he's going to college to get his education and have a good time playing sports. He didn't think he would have any fun sharing time with all of those backs."

Bourque has an official visit with Tennessee and Miami, and he is also considering Nebraska and Arizona State.

Bourque would have no chance of being a featured back at LSU, so if he’s looking for a high volume of playing time, another school is a better option.

With Bourque out of the recruiting picture, LSU now has 21 commitments, with no running backs in 2012 class. 

With talented wide receivers and tight ends, as well as 5-star quarterback Gunner Kiel, the Tigers are looking just fine.

It will be interesting to see if Les Miles will work magic to steal a running back at the last minute. A victory on Monday night in the 2012 BCS National Championship game will make that task a whole lot easier.

Follow me on Twitter @brettstephen