Antonio Johnson named SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Week

Setting the tone. 

For the first time in his career, defensive back Antonio Johnson was named Southeastern Conference Co-Defensive Player of the Week after an elite performance against then-No. 10 Arkansas. Johnson shares the honor with Alabama’s Will Anderson Jr.

Exiting last week’s Miami matchup with an injury, the All-American made a triumphant return on Saturday by matching a season-high 13 tackles, five of which were solo efforts, to lead A&M’s secondary.

“Just as a unit, we know we have to hold it down,” Johnson said postgame. “Offense is going to put up points, but defense wins championships. So as long as the other team don't score, we win.”

In 2021, Johnson started all 12 games and was second on the team in tackles (79), third in pass breakups (5) and fourth in tackles for loss (8.5). His 53 solo tackles also led the defense. Despite this being his first POTW recognition, Johnson has earned several prestigious accolades within the last year ranging from the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Watch List to AP All-SEC Second Team.

With two years of SEC experience, the East St. Louis native has emerged as a leader among A&M’s young secondary and currently paces the team in tackles with 38 (14 solos). He is also ranked 23rd nationally in tackles.

Johnson’s leadership proved to be invaluable in facing the Razorbacks, as the tumultuous affair came with no shortage of drama.

“Honestly, when we get in those hard times when we can't get a stop, or the offense is going really well, we just look at each other,” he added. “We always tell each other we got each other's back. We just got to do our job. And that's what I feel like we do a good job in. Even when they get in the red zone, we’re not going to let them get into the end zone.”