Will Johnson delivers 2nd pick-6 of 2024 in major momentum swing vs. USC
Will Johnson knows how to deliver a big-time play, and he secured a massive pick-6 to swing momentum in a major way for Michigan.
Facing USC in Week 4, the Wolverines built a 14-3 halftime lead but quickly found themselves on the wrong end of a momentum shift. The Trojans marched down the field for a touchdown to open the 2nd half, and it was a quick 3-and-out by the defense to force Michigan into a punt.
That set USC up with a drive that could have resulted in points and the possibility of a go-ahead touchdown. That’s when Johnson took over on a 3rd-and-short situation.
USC quarterback Miller Moss threw a pass in the direction of Zachariah Branch in the flat, but he did not spot Johnson lurking. As Branch continued drifting in his route, Johnson cut it off and was off in a flash the other direction.
It goes down as Johnson’s 2nd pick-6 of the season after he iced the Week 1 win over Fresno State with a pick-6:
PICK-SIX!!! 💪💪
Will Johnson making huge plays for @UMichFootball!!! 〽️ pic.twitter.com/Ff5QBLEa1w
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 21, 2024
Though Michigan missed the extra point, it gave the Wolverines a 20-10 lead, bumping the lead back to 2 possessions. Considering USC marched back down the field to make it 20-17, and has all the momentum, Johnson’s play could not have come at a more opportune moment.