'Twas ever thus. ;o)
We actually told him recently that we're ~okay~ if he doesn't think he's college material.
We also explained that he wouldn't have half the crap he wants to have. And we explained that those who go on from high school to become millionaires are vey rare.
Actually, Mom explained all those things. Dad clarified that he ain't livin' with us.
Quite frankly tho, I think it wouldn't be a bad thing if he went the military route and did college later.