'I'm up for the challange'

One of the key recruits in the '07 class came from the Hammond (LA) native.

The LSU Tigers have historically been very hard to beat for any home grown product, but Ole Miss was able to hold off the Tigers and FSU to garner the 6' 4", 320 pounder's services.

"I knew pretty much for two years now that I was going to end up here," added Rishaw Johnson at report date. "They pretty much sold me my junior year when I came up here on a visit. This staff up here just makes you feel at home, at least they did for me."

Now that his recruitment is out of the way, it is all business for Rishaw as he spent the summer at Ole Miss getting use to his new surroundings and playbook.

"I have been here pretty much the whole summer getting to work out with the players, getting to know the plays, and getting to know Coach Kehoe. I have already learned a lot about the offense already. Also, being here allowed me to start in shape. I am in the best shape of my life."

Does Rishaw feel like the offensive line is a strength for the team?

"Our offensive line is definitely going to be a strength of the team. Reid (Neely), John Jerry, Don Mosely, Bradley, and myself are hopefully going to be one of the better guard units in the country. There is a lot of talent here. I know that."

How have the veterans helped Johnson's development?

"Well, I watch a lot of film of John Jerry and with John. When I watch film with him, he just teaches me everything I need to know and points out everything he knows. John has been a big help for me. I think he has already made me a better player in the short time I have been around him."

What are Rishaw's impressions of Coach Kehoe?

"He is intense, real intense (laugh). Really, he was a big part of my decision. I know about his history, and I know that he will help me get to where I want to be (the NFL) one day."

Is Ole Miss everything that Rishaw was hoping it was going to be?

"Actually, it is more than everything I was hoping it was going to be. I love it here. A lot of freshmen get homesick and things like that, but not me. There is no place like Ole Miss. Who would not love it here?"

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