Johnson named SEC Freshman of the Week

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas freshman Dennis Johnson was named the Southeastern Conference’s Freshman of the Week by the league office in Birmingham, Ala., on Monday for his performance in Arkansas’ 31-30 victory over LSU on Friday.

Johnson, who earned his second start at running back, ran the ball 18 times for 135 yards and one touchdown including a season and career long run of 54 yards. The Texarkana, Ark., native averaged 7.1 yards per carry and also returned six kickoffs for 103 yards to lead all players in the game with 230 yards of total offense. Johnson’s first-quarter effort had him averaging more than 16 yards per carry as he shredded the LSU defense. His 17-yard run off left tackle capped a six play, 76-yard drive with Arkansas’ first touchdown of the game.

The freshman of the week award is the first league honor for the true freshman. He is also the second Razorback freshman to be named SEC Freshman of the Week following in the footsteps of teammate Joe Adams who garnered the honor for his performance against Louisiana-Monroe in week two of the season.

Arkansas players complete the 2008 season with five SEC Player of the Week awards. Along with Johnson and Adams, Michael Smith and Casey Dick each took SEC Offensive Player of the Week accolades for their performances against No. 20 Auburn and No. 19 Tulsa, respectively. Adrian Davis was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week for his role in the win against No. 20 Auburn.

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