Greenville native and St. Joseph graduate Dillon Johnson electrified a national audience on Saturday as he rushed for 246 yards and four touchdowns to help lead the No. 5 Washington Huskies to a 52-42 victory over the No. 20 University of Southern California Trojans.
Johnson’s rushing total was the fifth most rushing yards in the game by any player in FBS this season and most in the Pac-12. The only Pac-12 player to rush for over 200 yards this season and the most in the conference since Cal's Jaydn Ott had 274 against Arizona.
But, even bigger than the statistics Johnson put up Saturday, was the high praise leveled to him by ABC announcers Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit and sideline reporter Holly Rowe.
“And now the give to Dillon Johnson! Can they get him! Down to the pylon!” said Fowler, the play by play caller, after Johnson’s big run in the first quarter.”
The announcers also, on a number of occasions, highlighted Johnson’s personality — that really can light up a room — and how he is a loving father to his 1-year old son, Dillon Jr.
After the game in an interview with the PAC-12 network, Johnson credited his offensive line for his big night.
“The O-line did a great job of making holes for me, and I try to do the rest. The plan for the week was to be physical and the most physical team won. It was a blessing and I am excited. I can’t believe I rushed for that many yards.” Johnson said.
Benson shines once again for Seminoles
Dillon Johnson’s former teammate at St. Joseph, also had another highly impressive day Saturday for the Flordia State Seminoles in their 24-7 win over the Pittsburgh Panther. Benson carried the ball 12 carries for 97 yards and one touchdown in the game.
Johnson leads the Seminoles with 641 rushing yards and eight touchdowns this season.
