If Dyontae Johnson has a question about how to handle something, he calls Tycen Anderson.
That in itself is a sign of leadership, trusting others who came before him and recognizing that there are people who can lend support through experience.
Johnson, a fifth-year senior linebacker, is the heartbeat of the defense, serving as the unit’s quarterback of sorts and as an on-field coach. When he speaks, teammates open their ears and crane their necks to look him in the eye as the words flow out of his mouth.
“Because Dyontae always does everything the right way,” fellow senior linebacker Nate Givhan said.