Steve Sarkisian and the Washington Huskies might have just landed their biggest recruiting victory when they picked up the prized jewel of the Cal recruiting class and got him to make the move to UW.

Just committed to the UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON #HUSKYNATION

— Shaq Thompson(Grant) (@ItsShaqThompson) January 31, 2012

Shaq Thompson is considered one of the best safeties in the 2012 recruiting class. The Grant safety is the all-around package and was expected to be a game-changer as someone who could start the moment he made it onto campus. Thompson has always liked Washington, and it looks like the movement of his main recruiter was enough to make the difference in getting him to come Northwest. A few other factors could've also played a hand in his final decision.

It's official: Shaq tells us the reasons for Washington are: "It's where my heart is; second highest graduation rate in the Pac-12..."

— Joe Davidson (@sb_joedavidson) January 31, 2012

Just heard from Shaq;Wash was a close 2nd to Cal earlier;really likes Tosh Lupoi,academics;best friend James Sample is there. It's done.

— Joe Davidson (@sb_joedavidson) January 31, 2012

Baseball was another big factor for UW, Sark was willing to allow him to miss some spring ball, family appreciated the flexibility

— Greg Biggins (@GregBiggins) January 31, 2012

Looks as if the poaching of Tosh Lupoi from Cal to Washington might've made the difference.

To discuss Thompson's commitment and Washington football recruiting in general, head on over to UW Dawg Pound. To talk about Cal football recruiting, check out the California Golden Blogs.