One year before Collins announced his commitment, LSU locked up all of Louisiana's top five players, according to Rivals.com. Four of the five -- offensive tackle La'El Collins, defensive tackle Anthony Johnson, and wide receivers Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham -- will start Saturday against Alabama.
The Crimson Tide certainly wasn't hurting for talent in 2011, as its class ranked No. 1 overall in the nation. It was even able to pluck away cornerback Bradley Sylve, the No. 7-ranked recruit from Louisiana who could start Saturday if his high ankle sprain heals up enough.
LSU's ability to land all of these in-state players said nothing about Alabama and everything about LSU. Just like the Crimson Tide's ability to land Collins and linebacker Denzel Devall -- the No. 2 prospect in Louisiana according to Rivals.com -- said everything about Alabama one year later. ...
Worthy read.