L. J. for the Heisman.

The posters are simple and small with traditional Penn State blue and white, but they've made their appearance all over downtown State College. They're being handed out and posted up by businesses around the borough in support of Penn State's most popular player.

"It's important to support our students and our locals, regardless of how important their accomplishments are -- and let's face it, this is pretty important," said Teresa Sparacino, director of the Downtown State College Improvement District, the group responsible for the distribution of the posters.

Because Larry Johnson is not only a Penn State student but also a State College High School graduate, the community is even more excited about his accomplishments in football, Sparacino said.

"He's a local," she said.

The posters are the only way the Downtown Improvement District is supporting Johnson, but should he win the Heisman, "congratulations would be in order," Sparacino said.

The Heisman winner will be announced Saturday, and many people consider this year's competition to be very close.

Cathy Horner, owner of Tadpole Crossing, 101 E. Beaver Ave., was the one to suggest that downtown businesses put up the posters in support of Johnson.

"I think it's very cool that someone, not only from PSU, is up for the Heisman, but he's a State College High grad," Horner said.

The posters are typical of the relationship between local businesses, the university and State College High School, she said. Businesses are always eager to support members of the community, Horner said.

"Hopefully, Larry has seen the posters," she said.

Horner said she is also hopeful that the community will step up and support Johnson should he win the trophy.

"I wouldn't hope that if Larry wins, the community would do something for him -- this is very special," Horner said.