Wesley Johnson named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week

Sept. 20, 2010

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Vanderbilt redshirt freshman tackle Wesley Johnson claimed Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Week honors for his stellar performance in the Commodores’ 28-14 victory at Ole Miss.

Johnson, a product of Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, notched six knockdowns against the Rebels, and had key blocks in two long touchdown rushes for Vanderbilt, who moved to 1-2 overall and 1-1 in the SEC.

Johnson’s effort also contributed to the first career victory for Vanderbilt head coach Robbie Caldwell, who was named to the post in mid-July after Bobby Johnson announced his retirement.

Other recipients for the SEC’s top weekly honors were Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett, offensive player of the week; Auburn’s Josh Bynes, defensive player of the week; LSU’s Josh Jasper, special teams player of the week; LSU’s Drake Nevis, defensive lineman of the week; and Florida’s Jelani Jenkins, freshman of the week.

Caldwell said Johnson’s performance definitely merits recognition from the conference office.

“Wesley is very deserving of this honor. He just played a great football game last Saturday against Ole Miss,” Caldwell said. “I’m very happy for him, our offensive unit and our entire football team after that performance.”

The 6-5, 280-pound Johnson played all 62 offensive snaps for the Commodores, earning a 92 percent grade from the coaching staff. He also posted stellar blocks on Vanderbilt’s two longest touchdowns: a 35-yard score by Zac Stacy that capped an impressive 96-yard drive, and an 80-yard rush by Warren Norman that gave the Commodores a 21-14 margin that they never relinquished.

Johnson becomes the first Commodore to earn an SEC weekly award since Norman was recognized after the 2009 Kentucky game. He is also the first Vanderbilt offensive lineman to receive the SEC’s weekly award since Chris Williams was recognized after a 31-17 win over Ole Miss on Sept. 15, 2007.

(Photo Credit: Mike Marti)