One of the most impactful players on defense last season proved to be [autotag]Mekhi Wingo[/autotag].
The transfer from Missouri was expected to play a rotational role, but he was thrust into the starting lineup almost immediately when [autotag]Maason Smith[/autotag] tore his ACL on the opening drive of the season.
Wingo shined given the opportunity, becoming one of the best defensive linemen in the SEC last season. Now, with Smith back from injury and poised for a potential breakout, LSU has a pair of talented players manning the defensive tackle spots.
On3 is particularly high on Wingo, who it ranks as the No. 3 interior defensive lineman in the country entering the season.
One year after he was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team, Wingo managed to earn second-team All-SEC honors as a sophomore. He racked up 47 tackles, 6.0 tackles for a loss, 3.0 sacks, a forced fumble and four pass breakups after transferring in from Missouri.
Wingo could benefit greatly from Smith’s return. If he’s the kind of player many expect he will be, it could draw double teams that allow Wingo to make some plays.
After a productive sophomore season, Wingo is poised to be one of the best defensive players not just in the SEC, but also in the entire country.
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