[2023] WVU Freshman has Breakout Game Against Cincinnati

[smackemz]

 

Morgantown - WVU redshirt freshman linebacker Mike Johnson has gotten more playing time as the season has progressed.  That extra playing time came to fruition against the rival Bearcats, as he was able to turn in his best game of the season. In a close loss for the Mountaineers, Johnson was able to turn in 5 tackles, 2 TFL, and 2 Sacks on the day, a performance that WVU fans are hoping is a sign to come of future performances for the former blue chip recruit.  

Johnson started the season as the #2 OLB and his playing time was mostly limited to base defense and special teams.  As the season went on though, Johnson impressed in practice and earned more and more snaps in other defensive formations.  As the drama with DE Kyle Johnson unfolded, the youngster was able to take full advantage of the available reps on defense. 

"We're really excited about how the young guys performed being thrown into the fire." Coach smackemz said in his weekly press conference.  "We've been recruiting well, and we have been trying to balance getting as many of the redshirt freshman on the field as possible."  The Mountaineers have brought in a lot of talent over the last few years, and although the last few seasons haven't been great on the field there is optimism that WVU is close to turning the corner.  

A major part of that will be the continued growth of players like Mike Johnson.  He showed on Saturday that the potential is there. WVU fans will hope that these flashes of greatness start to become more consistent heading into the 2024 season.