The USC Trojans have already suffered two huge setbacks to their recruiting efforts in recent days, as five-star defensive line prospects Justus Terry and Isaiah Gibson both decommitted. Following an official visit to Auburn over the weekend, further bad news (rumors at the very least) has surfaced, indicating that the Auburn Tigers have emerged as a true threat to flip the nation’s #2 quarterback, Julian Lewis.
Should USC Trojans Brace for Another Big De-Commit?
Rusty Mansell, a college football expert, was recently asked about these allegations on the Crain and Company podcast, and from what he’s hearing, Auburn has moved the needle in their favor, to say the least.
“In the end, if I had to bet now, I’m not 100% sure it’ll happen.” But, if you ask me who the biggest threat is, I’d say Auburn. I believe he’s had a few of enjoyable visits there. I know he’s really close to his family. He is already in Carrollton, not far from Auburn.”
“It was only a matter of time before Hugh Freeze had the wagon ringed, so to speak, down in Auburn. That is a big boy damn software. They’re going to fight in some battles. They’re going to win some battles, but I don’t think so right now, as of June 19. Want to talk about a significant threat? “I believe Auburn is a serious threat to have Lewis in their class.”
Auburn is just 85 kilometers from Carrollton, Georgia.
Both Parties Have Said All the Right Things
This comes just days after it was claimed that Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans (months ago) turned down top quarterback prospect Bryce Underwood in order to focus only on preserving Lewis’ commitment.
Lewis also restated his commitment to the USC Trojans following his Auburn visit. On3’s recruiting prediction algorithm still offers Georgia a 23.8% probability of landing the quarterback. USC is second with 19.2 percent, and Auburn is third with 12.8 percent.
There is still plenty of time till signing day in December. Julian Lewis is slated to visit Colorado this weekend, but despite all of the outside buzz, Lewis has maintained that he is fully committed to USC and Lincoln Riley and is only visiting to enjoy the experience. Auburn is undoubtedly on the radar now, but USC remains firmly in the lead.
But if the last 24 hours have taught USC supporters anything, buckle up.
