University of Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, a Grosse Pointe South High School graduate, was named defensive player of the game during Michigan’s 34-13 win over the University of Washington in the College Football Playoff national championship on Jan. 8.
By: Jonathan Szczepaniak | Grosse Pointe Times | Published January 9, 2024
GROSSE POINTE FARMS — On the brightest stage of his young career at the University of Michigan, sophomore cornerback Will Johnson showcased why he’s one of the top defensive backs in the country.
Johnson, a Grosse Pointe South High School graduate, helped lead Michigan to a 34-13 win over the University of Washington in the College Football Playoff national championship game with a crucial interception to open the second half, earning defensive player of the game honors.
Washington trailed 17-10 with possession to open the third quarter as Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. dropped back to pass, but the Michigan pass rush forced an errant throw by the future NFL quarterback.
Penix threw it up to the left sideline as Johnson rushed in to make the play in front of the Huskies receiver, catching it, bobbling it, and finally diving to secure possession near the sideline for Michigan to take over at the Washington 32. Michigan would kick a field goal to make it a two-possession game.
Michigan earned its first national championship since the 1997 season, when Pro Football Hall of Famer Charles Woodson donned the No. 2 jersey for Michigan, which Will Johnson currently wears.
Woodson gave a shout out to Johnson last season on social media during Michigan’s 43-22 win over Purdue University in the 2022 Big Ten Championship after Johnson tallied two interceptions, posting, “Is that a deuce with a pick” and “The deuce is loose” in reference to Johnson’s performance.
Now, like Woodson, Johnson will forever be a part of history at Michigan.
In an interview with C & G Newspapers back in February of 2023, Johnson spoke to the culture of Michigan and what they try to build as a team.
“I think the culture here is just, ‘Work hard,’” Johnson said. “The responsibility you have and the commitment to the program really is a commitment to hard work, and we’re definitely going to have fun while we do it. I think that’s what it’s all about; we’re committed to each other and we all got genuine love for each other and the program. We’re all on the same page, and I think that’s what’s going to make us successful.”
Safe to say Johnson has been a key contributor to the Michigan culture, and will continue to be next season when he returns as Michigan’s top defensive player.