Jan 22, 2016 12:52 PM EST By Russell Westerholm, UniversityHerald Reporter

One of the best football recruits in the state of Louisiana made a lot of LSU fans happy Friday when he announced his college commitment.

Five-star defensive tackle Rashard Lawrence verbally committed to LSU after reportedly narrowing his decision to his home-state school and Ohio State. The announcement came one day after Les Miles added fellow Louisiana prospect Willie Allen, a four-star offensive tackle, to his 2016 class.

"I chose LSU because of the relationships that I have developed with the players, and I've always wanted to play in Death Valley," Lawrence told ESPN. "So at the end of the day, I followed my heart. The people of Louisiana have watched me grow and now will see me the next four years."

ESPN now ranks LSU's class the best in the nation once again, surpassing Ohio State. As if Miles has not had enough good news two weeks ahead of National Signing Day, four-star defensive tackle Glen Logan appears to have all but affirmed his commitment to LSU.

NOLA.com learned Logan (another Louisiana product no less) cancelled his planned visit to Miami. Miles now has 21 recruits in his incoming class, 18 of which have a four-star rating, according to ESPN.

By 247 Sports' ranking of Louisiana's top 10 recruits, LSU has commitments from eight and is considered the frontrunner for cornerback Kristian Fulton, the state's top prospect. LSU is also in the mix for multiple other top 2016 recruits, but Miles' class this year may well be defined by his dominance in his own backyard.

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