After enrolling in LSU as a five-star recruit in January 2011, DT Anthony Johnson is starting to emerge as a key contributor on the Tigers defensive line as a true sophomore.
In his first collegiate start against Idaho, Johnson had 5 tackles, including 1.5 for loss, while dominating the interior of the line of scrimmage.
He credits his emergence to weight loss, as he dropped 30 pounds over the off-season:
"Actually I think it was (my best game). Since the Mississippi State game I haven't felt that good on my feet. I think I played well for my team," Johnson told reporters on Wednesday. "[My mother] said, 'Boy, you look cheesy in your uniform'. She told me I had Dunlap Disease; she said my stomach had done lapped over my belt. I had to slim up. I had to look good for my family and for the fans. I'm healthier now."
After playing at 320 as a freshman, Johnson is now reportedly at 6'4 and 290-pounds, allowing him to display the combination of quickness and power that made him such a highly-touted recruit.
Under Les Miles, LSU has reliably churned out defensive lineman into the NFL. Johnson has the chance to be the next great one.
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