One of the biggest National Signing Day surprises came in the form of the nation’s No. 1 CB Patrick Surtain Jr.

Most thought Surtain was a strong lean to LSU (with Miami and Clemson other finalists), but he announced he would sign with Alabama Wednesday on ESPNU. His reasoning? It’s rather simple, but it will frustrate LSU fans.

“Why Alabama?” Surtain said live on ESPNU. “Because there’s a coach over there. They win championships. Over here (Fort Lauderdale’s American Heritage High School), we’re used to winning, so I want to be a part of that winning culture.”

Losing Surtain was a huge blow to LSU’s recruiting class. He’s ranked as the nation’s No. 6 overall prospect, and with his commitment, Alabama jumped into the top four recruiting classes in the country.

One of Alabama’s biggest positions of need is at defensive back, and the Tide filled that nicely with Surtain and 3-star CB Eddie Smith.

Surtain is the son of former Pro Bowl CB Patrick Surtain, and he’ll compete for playing time early.