The beast.
A.J. Johnson has lived up to his nickname throughout his collegiate career. The Tennessee Volunteers starting middle linebacker has been the bright spot on several losing teams and is hungry for a change in his senior season. Johnson has never experienced a winning season or bowl game appearance, but that hasnt stopped him from becoming one of the best linebackers to ever suit up for the Vols. To no ones surprise, Johnson kicked off his 2014 campaign with a dominant performance.
Johnson recorded nine tackles, one interception and one forced fumble in Tennessees 38-7 win over Utah State. The Vols defense had the perfect answer for dual-threat quarterback Chuckie Keeton, who was held to 144 yards, two interceptions and one touchdown on 18-of-35 passing, while also rushing for a pedestrian 12 yards on eight attempts.
Johnson will face a similar matchup on Saturday against Arkansas State and its elusive signal caller Fredi Knighten. Knighten opened his season with 219 yards and one touchdown on 19-of-29 passing against Montana State. He also led the Red Wolves in rushing Saturday with 104 yards on 15 attempts.
Tennessee will need to answer a fast-paced up-tempo offense. Arkansas State averages 8-10 seconds between plays to set up its offense to catch defenses off guard. Johnson will play a vital role in Tennessees Orange Swarm defense counteracting the talented Red Wolves. The Vols will need to apply pressure to Knighten, while also providing solid linebacking to spy the quarterback and contain his mobility. Johnson will need to have a repeat performance from his stellar season opener for the Tennessee defense to be successful.
The emergence of Jalen Reeves-Maybin and return of Curt Maggitt have provided Johnson with the most help hes seen since enrolling in 2011. Johnson should finish Saturdays game with at least six tackles en route to Tennessee capturing its second win of the season. As the Vols approach a tough stretch of games in the upcoming weeks, they will need Johnson to capitalize on a strong start and continue his success throughout the season.
