Running careers are short and life is long. College is no guarantee of a great job but it increases the odds significantly. High school diploma only is a virtual guarantee of struggling for the rest of your life. Even if you get a semi decent job you will limit promotion possibilities with only high school.
Are there exceptions? Definitely but I would prefer to be on side of the odds.
For you single dudes getting a degree will also increase the odds of marrying a nice girl.