Washington’s Dillon Johnson ‘all good’ for CFP championship game after injury scare

HOUSTON — Dillon Johnson, Washington’s 1,000 yard rusher, is expecting to be able to play in Monday night’s national championship game against Michigan despite knee and foot injuries he suffered late in the Sugar Bowl. “It’s all good,” Johnson said in the lead up to the showdown. “I’ll be ready to rock and roll and give whatever my team needs.

I’ll be ready to do it.” While Heisman Trophy runner up Michael Penix Jr. and his star receivers have drawn most of the headlines for the Huskies’ prolific offense, Johnson has become a key part of the attack. The Mississippi State transfer ran for 1,162 yards and 16 touchdowns this year, and had a monster 152 yard, two touchdown performance in the Pac 12 title game victory over Oregon .

There was some doubt about Johnson’s status when he suffered the injuries on a running play during Washington’s final drive against Texas. He had been managing a foot injury since November. But he has been able to practice this week, and both coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb are expecting to have him at full capacity even if Johnson doesn’t think he’ll be 100 percent.

“They’re going to have to carry me off on a stretcher and I don’t think even that is going to be able to hold me back,” the senior said. “I definitely will be out there playing on Monday. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so I have no choice.” The matchup between Michigan cornerback Will Johnson and Washington receiver Rome Odunze will arguably be the most intriguing one on Monday night.

Johnson said the Huskies’ receiving corps is the best group the Wolverines will face this year. Johnson established himself as a top cover corner this season, notching three interceptions and four passes defensed in 11 games. Odunze, a potential top 10 pick in the NFL draft in April, will test him.

“I’m confident in myself in most matchups, so it’s really just about the preparation,” Johnson said. “That’s the biggest way I think about it. Preparing myself the best I can before the game and go out there and finish it and execute it.” He added: “Can’t wait.”.