National Signing Day 2011: Will Oregon Steal Recruit DeAnthony Thomas from USC?

ESPN reported Wednesday that DeAnthony Thomas is expected to announce his decision to back off his verbal commitment from USC and sign with Oregon. Thomas is widely considered the top athlete in this year's recruiting class.

Thomas dominates on both sides of the ball, combining elite speed with unparalleled athleticism. In his senior year alone, he recorded 1,306 rushing yards, an 11.4 YPC average, 27 touchdowns and five interceptions.

Thomas is right in USC's backyard, having attended Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles. The Trojans seemed like a natural fit and the addition of Thomas completed the Trojans' recruiting class as one of the top classes in the nation. He took a trip to Oregon last week and reportedly fell in love with the campus and offense.

Oregon made the BCS National Championship Game and features a dominant, speed-oriented offense. While Thomas could be close to home at USC, he has a chance to dominate in the high octane offense the Ducks feature. The success that LaMichael James enjoyed is a solid selling point in luring Thomas to Oregon.

This news has to irk head coach Lane Kiffin. Not only is Thomas' departure a possibility, if he lands in Oregon, it gives Chip Kelly another weapon to add to his collection on his road to another National Championship appearance.

Thomas is expected to excel in either offense. Kiffin is among those who have entered panic mode in an effort to dissuade Thomas from abandoning ship. Thomas is expected to announce his decision at 5:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. USC has until then to try to keep their recruiting class intact, though his mind may already be made up.

See where the Top 100 recruits are headed.