LSU football: 10 best players of the Les Miles Era

Nov 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) celebrates as he runs into the end zone to score a touchdown off an interception in the fourth quarter against the St. Louis Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Rams 31-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Patrick Peterson

Arguably the most electric player of Les Miles’ decade as head coach, Patrick Peterson was the unquestioned star of an elite LSU defense that boasted multiple NFL prospects.

Peterson arrived on campus as one of the most decorated prospects in school history after being named the 2007 USA Today Defensive Player of the year and earning multiple high school All-American honors. Although such a feat seemed near impossible, he managed to surpass the lofty expectations that came along with such accolades.

The 6-foot-1 cornerback took over the starting job late in his freshman season, and set the stage for himself to emerge as a star over the course of the next two seasons. He would go on to win numerous awards at the conference and national level.

Peterson followed up an impressive sophomore season by recording four interceptions and bringing home the 2010 Bednarik and Jim Thorpe Award. He would also earn national recognition for his abilities as a return specialist, and was named first team All-American and All-SEC.

Following his illustrious career with the Bayou Bengals, Peterson was drafted No. 5 overall by the Arizona Cardinals, and has established himself as one of the top lockdown corners in the NFL.

Next: Jacob Hester