Bulls’ Johnson returns to lineup

TAMPA — In the war of attrition that is late October, USF is getting freshman LB back just in time for Houston and its 33rd-ranked passing offense (270 ypg), which comes to Raymond James Stadium on Saturday.

Johnson, who had been sidelined since taking a hard hit to the chest against Temple on Sept. 21, practiced again Wednesday and is expected to play Saturday, Bulls defensive coordinator said.

“Everybody is in the same situation when you start getting closer to November,” Jean-Mary said. “The more bodies we can have this time of year, it’s always a plus.”

Before his injury, Johnson had at least one tackle in each of the four weeks he played — including at least one a game.

“It’s whatever bodies you have available,” Jean-Mary said. “Not even fully healthy bodies, but bodies who are able to play.”

With a minimum five games remaining this season, senior DT already has 10 tackles for loss, only five fewer than his college total entering 2017. His four sacks also lead the Bulls. Hector and DT

have accounted for 48 tackles so far for a run defense that ranks ninth nationally (94.4 ypg).

“Obviously, I think our offense is one of the top offenses in the country,” Jean-Mary said. “So if you’re able to be productive against them, then you feel like you have a chance to be productive against other opponents . ... I think he’s playing unbelievable and at a level where he’s one of the better defensive lineman in the country.”

Brian Jean-Mary Bruce Hector Deadrin Senat Keirston Johnson