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DeAnthony Thomas Headed North

Shotgun Spratling |
February 2, 2011 | 3:07 a.m. PST

Associate Sports Editor

 ektogamat/Flickr, Graphic: Jenn Fong/Neon Tommy)
ektogamat/Flickr, Graphic: Jenn Fong/Neon Tommy)
DeAnthony Thomas, one of the most dynamic athletes in the nation, spurned USC and signed with Oregon Wednesday evening.

The 5-foot-9, 160 pounder nicknamed "Black Mamba" by Snoop Dogg in pee-wee football is the top athlete in the nation, according to ESPN and Rivals. Scout has him listed as the No. 1 cornerback in the nation.

Thomas has been committed to USC for nearly a year, but Oregon pulled off one of the biggest Signing Day coups in the past few years. The Ducks stole Thomas right out from underneath USC. Thomas attends Crenshaw High in Los Angeles.

It has been speculated that Oregon sold Thomas on being a playmaker in its high-powered offense during a visit last weekend. USC wanted Thomas to play cornerback, where most experts believe he has the best chance to play professionally.

For more information on high school recruits potentially choosing USC, follow our National Signing Day coverage.

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