NIU linebacker Jawuan Johnson was named Mid-American Conference West Division Defensive Player of the Week for the second time this season. In the team’s last game against Central Michigan, Johnson recorded a quarterback sack, forced fumble and an interception he successfully returned for a touchdown.

Johnson’s second Player of the Week selection marks the sixth time this year a defensive Huskie player has earned the weekly honor, the most in school history. This year, eight NIU players accumulated a total of 11 MAC West Player of the Week honors. Johnson and fellow defensive teammate Sutton Smith were the only two players to earn multiple awards.

Johnson recorded his team-high fifth interception against Central Michigan on the first drive of the game. When he returned that interception for a touchdown, it marked his second pick-six of the season.

Johnson’s five picks are the most by a Huskie linebacker since Mike Terna recorded five interceptions in 1980. They also rank him tied for seventh nationally in total interceptions this season.  

Johnson finished the game with six solo tackles which, ranking him second on the team this season in tackles with 86 and and tackles for a loss with 13.5. He also recorded three forced fumbles which ties him for first on the team with Smith.

NIU will play in a bowl game for the ninth time in 10 seasons after finishing with an 8-4 record this season. The Huskies will know who their opponent is no later than Dec. 3.

For more information on the 2017 MAC Bowl tie-ins, go to NIU Football Bowl Central on NIUHuskies.com.