“Smart move” “Not surprised” — CFB fans left debating as 5-star edge Isaiah Gibson decommits from Lincoln Riley’s USC

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jun 19, 2024 14:17 GMT

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Lincoln Riley’s 2025 recruiting class faced its first major setback as Isaiah Gibson, a five-star defensive end from Warner Robins, GA, decommitted from USC on Tuesday. Gibson had been a standout in Riley’s class, which included top recruits Justus Terry and Julian Lewis.

Initially committing to USC in March alongside Terry, Gibson had been a highly touted prospect, previously recognized in the 2024 recruiting cycle. His decommitment has sparked significant discussion among fans and analysts, with some fans calling it a "smart move" and saying that they were "not surprised":

(Credit: Instagram/@247sports)

A few other fans also remarked about his probable destinations:

(Credit: Instagram/@247sports)

Other fans expressed skepticism and supported his decision:

(Credit: Instagram/@247sports)

Standing at 6-foot-3 and 263 pounds, Gibson is ranked as the No. 27 overall prospect in the country by the On3 Industry Ranking. He is the top edge prospect nationally and the No. 7 player in Georgia.

Gibson’s decision followed an official visit to Ohio State, leading many to speculate he might prefer a program closer to home, such as Georgia or Auburn. On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM) lists Georgia as the leading candidate with a 49.7% chance to sign Gibson, while USC follows closely with a 43.2% chance.

Notably, Isaiah Gibson had never scheduled an official visit to USC, unlike his counterpart Terry, who is set to visit this weekend. Rated by 247 Sports as the No. 1 edge-rusher in the country, Gibson initially committed to USC on March 24, shortly after an unofficial visit to Georgia. His decision to re-open his recruitment came nearly three months later, following an official visit to Auburn.

Eric Henderson, USC's co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach, played a crucial role in Gibson's initial commitment. His conversations with Henderson largely influenced Gibson's choice to commit without visiting USC. Despite this setback, there remains a possibility that Henderson could persuade Gibson to rejoin the Trojans before National Signing Day.

Following Isaiah Gibson's decommitment, Georgia is now in the lead

One of Georgia's premier targets for the 2025 class, Isaiah Gibson is now back on the market. Reflecting on his initial decision, Gibson told On3’s Chad Simmons:

"The opportunities that USC has on and off the field were big, for sure. It was my first time in California, and I like that they have my major [business real estate]. I feel like I could thrive inside and outside of football."

Since his commitment, Isaiah Gibson has made multiple visits, both official and unofficial, to schools such as Florida, Florida State, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Notably, he visited Athens on May 31, South Carolina on June 7, Auburn on June 10 and Tennessee on June 14.

According to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, Georgia is now the front-runner to secure Gibson's commitment, with a 49.7% chance. USC follows with 43.2%, while South Carolina, Auburn and Oklahoma have slim chances.

Isaiah Gibson has expressed high regard for Georgia, telling DawgsHQ’s Palmer Thombs:

"UGA is probably the No. 1 school in the country in every single category. They check every box."

In his junior year at Warner Robins High School, Gibson tallied impressive stats with 17 sacks and 55 tackles for loss.